Wynonna Judd's Cheeky Comment About Tim McGraw Proves She's a True Champion
Wynonna Judd has had a remarkable career in country music, but she's not afraid to laugh at herself. The singer-songwriter was honored with the Country Champion Award at the 2023 People's Choice Country Awards, which recognizes artists who have made a positive impact on the genre and society. In her acceptance speech, Judd joked about how she went from being a concert headliner to an opening act for Tim McGraw, who presented her with the award.
"I remember when I used to sell out arenas and stadiums, and now I'm opening for this guy," Judd said, pointing at McGraw. "But you know what? I'm grateful for every opportunity I get to share my music and my message with the fans. And I'm grateful for Tim, who has been a friend and a mentor to me for many years."
"Four weeks ago, I opened for Tim," she continued to laughter and applause. "The highs are highs, and the lows are low, baby, but don't ever let them tell you who you are."
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Elsewhere in her speech, Wynonna noted how the definition of champion means "to do battle for others' honor," quipping to the crowd, "and that is exactly what I'm going to do tomorrow when I get on a commercial flight and fly to Denver and do one more show, because I can't get enough of you."
She added, "It's getting harder and harder out there, but never ever give up on your dreams.
"No, seriously, it's really easy to lose everything when you win the lottery," she explained. "It really is."
Wynonna added, "I'm grateful that I have land, that I have a family, that I've got a granddaughter and that I have people that love me no matter what number I am on the scale or the charts."
Judd also thanked her family, her band, her crew, and her loyal supporters, who have stuck with her through the highs and lows of her life and career. She said she was humbled by the Country Champion Award, which she dedicated to her mother, Naomi Judd, who was also her musical partner in the legendary duo The Judds.
"My mom taught me everything I know about country music, about singing from the heart, about being true to myself, and about giving back to the community," Judd said. "She is my hero, my inspiration, and my country champion. I love you, mom."
Judd received a standing ovation from the audience, which included fellow country stars.
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