Wynonna Judd's Star-Studded Girls Night Out Thrills Fans At CMA Fest
Wynonna Judd's Girls Night Out at the Ascend Amphitheater was a heartwarming highlight of the CMA Fest. As the lights dimmed, anticipation buzzed through the crowd, signaling a night of musical brilliance. Wynonna, with her timeless voice and magnetic presence, crafted an evening that felt both intimate and grand, a rare combination that only a seasoned performer like her could achieve. Fans who chose Ascend over Nissan Stadium were in for an extraordinary experience, with Wynonna curating a lineup of stellar performances and surprise collaborations. The amphitheater was alive with an undeniable energy, as Wynonna's presence and the night's musical offerings created a shared sense of joy and connection.
All Photos By: Aaron R. Shriver PhotographyThe night kicked off with Madeline Edwards, whose music defies genre boundaries by blending country, jazz, soul, and rock. Her raw and emotive voice immediately captivated the audience, setting a heartfelt tone for the evening. Madeline's authenticity shone through, creating a deeply engaging start to the show.
Click The Image For The Full Sara Evans Photo GalleryFollowing Madeline, Sara Evans took the stage with her full band, including her daughter Olivia on backup vocals. Sara's performance was a high-energy trip down memory lane, featuring fan favorites like "Perfect," "Backseat of a Greyhound Bus," and "Not Over You." The crowd's enthusiastic sing-alongs added to the communal atmosphere, making it clear that Sara's hits have a lasting impact. Her genuine excitement about opening for Wynonna resonated throughout her set, infusing the night with a sense of shared celebration and admiration.
When Wynonna Judd and her band, The Big Noise, took the stage, the crowd's energy was electric. From her first note, Wynonna's radiant presence had everyone captivated. She shared heartfelt reflections on her 42-year career, expressing deep gratitude to her loyal fans. Her performance seamlessly wove together classic hits and fresh sounds, all led by her husband and drummer, Cactus Moser. As she played, you could feel the history and passion in every song, creating a powerful connection with the audience. Wynonna's voice, full of life and emotion, carried the essence of her storied career, making the night an unforgettable experience.
One of the most memorable aspects of the evening was Wynonna's special guests, who each brought their own unique flair to the stage. The War & Treaty were the first to join, debuting a new song called "Hopeful Lie." Their performance, rich with soulful harmonies, created a poignant moment that highlighted the duo's dynamic synergy with Wynonna.
Next up was Noeline Hoffman, a gifted singer-songwriter from Canada. Together, she and Wynonna delivered a touching rendition of "Love Is Alive," captivating the audience with their combined vocal prowess and heartfelt delivery.
The crowd was then treated to an unexpected delight when Lainey Wilson made her appearance. Lainey and Wynonna's duet of "Mama He's Crazy" was a highlight, showcasing the deep respect and admiration Lainey holds for Wynonna. Their voices blended beautifully, creating an unforgettable performance that felt both intimate and powerful.
Click The Image For The Full Little Big Town GalleryAs if the night couldn't get any better, Little Big Town joined Wynonna and Lainey on stage for a spirited performance of "Girls Night Out." The excitement in the amphitheater was palpable as these country music powerhouses harmonized, setting the stage for their upcoming summer tour.
Click The Image For The Full Noah Cyrus Photo GalleryThe night took another thrilling turn with the arrival of Noah Cyrus. Wynonna fondly recalled her tours with Billy Ray Cyrus before launching into a lively duet of "When Love Starts Talkin'," adding a nostalgic touch to an already magical evening.
"It was one of those 'you had to be there' nights. Thank you to every single artist for showing up and showing out! YOU ARE MY FAMILY!!!!!! Huge thanks to CMA for letting me throw my own party… let’s do it again soon!"
As the night progressed, a gentle rain began to fall, adding a touch of magic to the atmosphere. Instead of dampening the spirits, it seemed to enhance the overall experience, creating a serene and intimate ambiance. The natural backdrop of the amphitheater, combined with the light rain, made the music feel even more poignant and special.
Click The Image For The Full Wynonna Photo GalleryWynonna Judd’s Girls Night Out was a beautiful tapestry of heartfelt performances and surprise collaborations. The blend of legendary hits and new, soulful duets provided a rich, emotional journey that resonated deeply with everyone present. Fans experienced not just a concert, but a heartfelt celebration of music and connection. Wynonna’s enduring legacy and genuine appreciation for her audience shone through every moment, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. The evening was a reminder of the power of live music to bring people together, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. As the night drew to a close, the sense of camaraderie and shared joy was palpable, making it an unforgettable part of CMA Fest.
