Churchill Downs Racetrack has announced a star-studded weekend in commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Kentucky Derby, featuring a national anthem performance from five-time Grammy Award-winning Singer and state-native Wynonna Judd.
Woodford Reserve will present the event on May 4, with Judd kicking off the momentous 150th Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs at around 5:00 PM EDT through her rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner."
The performance will be broadcast live via NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage to an estimated viewership in the millions across the globe.
On Wynonna Judd's Upcoming Appearance at the 150th Kentucky Derby
"Wynonna Judd is a multigenerational talent who has helped shape country music over the years, and a Kentucky native, making her the perfect artist to set the stage for this once-in-a-lifetime Kentucky Derby," said Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs.
He continued: "We're excited for Wynonna to bring her powerful voice back to Louisville to convey the wide range of emotion for which this landmark occasion calls."
In her journey to unrivaled heights, the Kentucky country icon started her career stardom alongside her mother as part of a musical act duo called The Judds, where she earned give of her Grammy awards for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
Since then, the now-legendary crooner has continued her triumphant success as a solo artist and has released eight studio albums across the years. Her foremost musical endeavor finds her on a nationwide tour, dubbed "Back to Wy" as a nod to her first two solo albums.
"I am so proud to represent my home state, taking part in one of the most storied and iconic traditions," expressed Judd. "The Kentucky Derby is something I look forward to every year and being able to perform this year makes the momentous event even more special."
Judd joins the pantheon of preeminent musicians and singers who faced the mic as part of the long-standing tradition, including Carly Pearce (2023), Brittney Spencer (2022), Tori Kelly (2021), Jennifer Nettles (2019), and Pentatonix (2018), among others.
Watch last year's "The Star-Spangled Banner" performance by Pearce right below.
