Podcast Title: Takin' a Walk
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Episode: Classic Music Saved Me with Wynonna Judd
Release Date: July 19, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of the "takin' a walk" MUSIC HISTORY ON FOOT podcast, hosted by Buzz Knight from iHeartPodcasts, listeners are treated to an intimate conversation with one of country music's most revered figures, Wynonna Judd. The episode, titled "Classic Music Saved Me with Wynonna Judd," delves deep into Wynonna's personal and professional journey, exploring how music served as a lifeline during her most challenging times.

Wynonna Judd's Early Relationship with Music

The episode opens with Lynne Hoffman, the host, introducing Wynonna Judd—a powerhouse in the country music scene with 19 number-one singles and an enduring legacy alongside her mother, Naomi Judd. [01:06] Hoffman sets the stage for a heartfelt discussion about Wynonna's deep connection to music.

Wynonna begins by sharing her early experiences with music, stating:

"My name is Wynonna Ellen Judd. I was born Christina Claire Seminella in 1964 and I started playing guitar when I was eight years old. I think out of loneliness and feeling very different in my family. I didn't feel like I belonged anywhere. I was a misfit and I think music saved my life in so many ways that I still feel that today." [02:14]

Growing up in isolation with no neighbors, television, or telephone, Wynonna found solace in her guitar. The instrument wasn't just a hobby; it was a sanctuary that provided her with a sense of belonging and purpose.

Influence of Joni Mitchell and Other Artists

Wynonna credits several female artists who profoundly influenced her musical journey. She highlights Joni Mitchell as a pivotal figure in her life:

"Somewhere around 1971 or 1972, I discovered Joni Mitchell. And I learned every word, I learned every note. I played the guitar, and people would ask me to play music at parties and family get-togethers, and I became known as the girl with the guitar." [02:59]

The comforting nature of Mitchell's music resonated deeply with her, providing emotional support during her formative years. Beyond Joni Mitchell, Wynonna also mentions Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, and Aretha Franklin as instrumental in shaping her musical tastes and emotional resilience.

Personal Struggles and Music as a Saving Grace

Wynonna opens up about her personal battles and how music was her anchor:

"I was 14 years old in Marin county, outside of San Francisco, where I discovered Bonnie Raitt. And I just went way, way deep into Bonnie and she saved my life." [05:03]

Her immersion in music provided an escape from the hardships of growing up in a single-parent household reliant on welfare. Writing songs became a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to process her emotions and dreams despite the limited resources.

Songwriting and Personal Expression

Songwriting was more than a creative endeavor for Wynonna; it was a means of self-expression and survival. She recounts:

"I wrote a song called 'Lazy Country Evening.' I would just sit there and strum the guitar. Something to do. And if it wasn't for that, I don't know what would have happened." [05:54]

Her early songs were deeply personal, akin to keeping a locked diary, serving as a private space to vent and navigate her feelings of isolation and familial differences.

Honesty and Authenticity in Her Music

When prompted about the transparency in her songwriting, Wynonna explains:

"I've been this way my whole life. My mom said I was not a good liar, and she said that I always told on myself... I've been this way my whole life." [08:05]

Her authenticity stems from her upbringing and the influences of her grandmother, who instilled in her the importance of honesty and self-awareness. This genuine approach has fostered a profound connection with her fans, who view her as an open and truthful artist.

Life Beyond Music: Family and Farming

Beyond her illustrious career, Wynonna shares insights into her personal life, highlighting the importance of family and her life as a farmer:

"I'm currently looking at my baby girl. I have a granddaughter. Her name is Kalia. She gives me a sense of hope." [09:23]

Additionally, her commitment to farming and caring for her 40 animals provides her with grounding and perspective, balancing the high-paced world of music with the serene and honest work of nurturing life on her farm.

The Power of Music and Spirituality

Wynonna delves into the spiritual aspects of music, distinguishing between religion and spirituality:

"To me, it's spirituality. I was raised with a religion, and I ran from it when I was 18 years old... I think the best work comes from this tour, because it breaks me. It literally opens me wide open when I'm on stage." [10:17]

She describes music as a conduit for deeper spiritual experiences, where the connection with her audience transcends physical presence, creating moments of collective emotion and humility.

Visualization and Mental Resilience

Wynonna discusses the role of visualization in maintaining her mental resilience amidst the pressures of the music industry:

"I've always been a visionary... I close my eyes and I visualize myself on stage being very capable." [11:39]

This practice helps her navigate insecurities and stay mentally prepared for performances, ensuring she remains true to herself despite the external demands of her career.

Fan Connection and Impact

The bond between Wynonna and her fans is a recurring theme, emphasizing mutual support and inspiration. A fan shares:

"Winona's music takes me back to road trips... It's something we would sing along to." [13:04]

This connection underscores the reciprocal relationship where Wynonna's music not only helps her but also serves as a source of comfort and joy for her listeners.

Advice to Aspiring Musicians

In her closing remarks, Wynonna offers heartfelt advice to budding musicians:

"Stay away from social media, don't compare yourself to others, play an instrument, write songs, be honest with yourself, find somewhere authentic to play, sing and play as much as possible, and listen to your gut." [13:46]

She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, consistent effort, and self-trust, encouraging artists to remain true to their passions and personal truths amidst the challenges of the industry.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Lynne Hoffman summarizing Wynonna Judd's journey as one of resilience, authenticity, and deep connection with her audience. Wynonna's story is a testament to the transformative power of music, both as a personal sanctuary and as a bridge connecting her with millions of fans worldwide.

"Wynonna Judd, a portrait in resilience, authenticity, transparency, sharing her bond with her audience on this episode of Music Saved Me." [15:22]

Listeners are left inspired by Wynonna's unwavering dedication to her craft and her genuine approach to life and music, embodying the essence of how music can truly save lives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Wynonna Judd on Early Life and Music:
  "My name is Wynonna Ellen Judd... I didn't feel like I belonged anywhere. I was a misfit and I think music saved my life in so many ways that I still feel that today." [02:14]

• Influence of Joni Mitchell:
  "Somewhere around 1971 or 1972, I discovered Joni Mitchell... I became known as the girl with the guitar." [02:59]

• Songwriting as a Lifeline:
  "I wrote a song called 'Lazy Country Evening.' I would just sit there and strum the guitar. Something to do." [05:54]

• Honesty in Music:
  "I've been this way my whole life. My mom said I was not a good liar... I've been this way my whole life." [08:05]

• Spirituality and Music:
  "To me, it's spirituality... It literally opens me wide open when I'm on stage." [10:17]

• Visualization Technique:
  "I close my eyes and I visualize myself on stage being very capable." [11:39]

• Advice to Musicians:
  "Stay away from social media, don't compare yourself to others... listen to your gut." [13:46]

This episode of "takin' a walk" offers a profound look into Wynonna Judd's life, illustrating how music can be both a refuge and a calling. For anyone interested in the intersection of personal struggle and musical triumph, this conversation provides valuable insights and inspiration.