Country Music Fans Can't Stop Talking about Wynonna Judd's "Phenomenal" Kentucky Derby Performance

Country Music Fans Can't Stop Talking about Wynonna Judd's "Phenomenal" Kentucky Derby Performance

Each year, the Kentucky Derby promises to be the "most exciting two minutes in sports." The 150th Run for the Roses certainly did not disappoint, with an incredible photo finish win by Mystik Dan. But before the horses left the gates, country music icon Wynonna Judd took center stage to perform the National Anthem.

Wynonna, a Kentucky native, said of the opportunity, "Kentucky, I’m coming HOME! Couldn’t be more excited to announce I’ll be performing the national anthem at this year’s 150th @kentuckyderby 🐎❤️🎤!!! From going to the racetrack as a little girl to now singing the Star-Spangled Banner during this MILESTONE year, it’s such a full circle moment 🥰."

Before the race, she shared a selfie with one of her horses at her farm and admitted, "I’m so excited that I’ve been wearing my Derby fascinator around the farm."

louisville, kentucky may 04 wynonna judd and husband cactus moser perform the national anthem before the start of the 150th running of the kentucky derby at churchill downs on may 04, 2024 in louisville, kentucky photo by rob carrgetty images
Rob Carr

For the special event, the Grammy winner wore a white-and-black pantsuit with lace details paired with a perfectly dramatic top hat. She sung the "Star-Spangled Banner" accompanied by Cactus Moser, her husband of 12 years, on drums. Watch the full performance here.

louisville, kentucky may 04 wynonna judd and husband cactus moser wave to the crowd after playing the national anthem before the start of the 150th running of the kentucky derby at churchill downs on may 04, 2024 in louisville, kentucky photo by rob carrgetty images
Rob Carr

Fans on social media left comments like, "Such a strong voice..I got chills❤️," "She was amazing. No one else can sing it better!" " She’s Phenomenal. ❤️❤️," and "Best National Anthem performance ever!!!!"

We have to agree: Wynonna and Cactus's performance was the perfect way to kick off the Derby!

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