Country legend Naomi Judd has died.
According to the NY Times Naomi Judd, who was one half of the mother-daughter duo the Judds dominated the country music charts in the 1980s with a blend of tight vocal harmonies, traditional arrangements, and modern pop aesthetics, died on Saturday outside Nashville. She was 76.
Ashley Judd, the actress, confirmed her mother’s death on Twitter. She did not specify where she died or the cause but said:
“We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness.”
Naomi Judd had lived for years on a farm in the hills above Franklin, Tenn., a suburb of Nashville.
With her other daughter, Wynonna, Ms. Judd rocketed to country stardom in 1983 with the single “Had a Dream (for the Heart)” and, a year later, with the duo’s chart-topping first album, “Why Not Me.”
More hits followed — including 14 No. 1 songs — and a long list of honors, including nine Country Music Association Awards and five Grammys.
Wynonna Judd appeared at the Country Music Hall of Fame ceremony Sunday evening for a brief and emotional tribute to her mother and duo partner, Naomi Judd, who died the day before the Judds were scheduled to be inducted. https://t.co/MhCG9iaguO
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) May 2, 2022
and
I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend and fellow Kentuckian, Naomi Judd. Naomi was always so special to be with. She accomplished so much and she will be missed and loved forever. My prayers go out to Naomi and her family.❤️ ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Us57t9bfsj
— Crystal Gayle (@TheCrystalGayle) April 30, 2022
and
I loved Naomi Judd. Among her many talents, she was just so much fun, a great storyteller and a wonderful spirit. https://t.co/1ecFMV7HSY
— Andy Cohen (@Andy) April 30, 2022
and
This is heartbreaking news! Naomi Judd was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known. I had the honor of working with her in movies and numerous musical events. My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to her family. https://t.co/ONRL9Q29om
— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) April 30, 2022
Rest In Peace.