Never underestimate the power to change. And never, ever underestimate the power of a mama in rhinestones and a daughter in black velvet who can play a guitar, sneer like Elvis and command an arena stage without moving a single muscle.
The Judds -- yes, the JUDDS -- were back in fine form Tuesday evening in the Delta Center, proving that, despite a nine-year separation, the music does go on. The concert was full of dancers, audience antics, emotional tear-jerking tenderness and Naomi's unforgettable costumes.Naomi and Wynonna Judd have extended their reunion past their New Year's Eve concert in Phoenix. The two women are crossing the country with their message of inspiration, love and empowerment. At the Delta Center, they were reminding every listener that anyone can dream, anyone can change and anyone can overcome impossible odds.
Naomi has.
The matron Judd has won her battle with hepatitis C, and now she is on a mission to help others find the strength to do the same.
The concert began on a bone-tingling note with the hit "Love Can Build A Bridge." Mother and daughter slowly appeared with their backs to the fans. The screams and cheers from the crowd almost broke the tender atmosphere. On a screen that seconded as a backdrop, was a video of Wynonna and Naomi on their past tours and during their final concert, as well as clips featuring Ashley Judd. She was every bit a part of this show as her sister and mom.
Salt Lake City's First Presbyterian Church accompanied the Judds during this number, adding to the goose-pimpling effect.
"Tonight is proof that there is always hope," said Naomi, like a motivational speaker, before her daughter let it fly with "Girls Night Out," "Rockin' With the Rhythm of the Rain" and "Have Mercy."
Naomi was in fine form in her glamorous outfits, looking every bit the beauty queen that she is. "I've been rhinestone-free for nine years, but tonight I fell off the wagon," she said as the audience went wild.
But the evening truly belonged to Wynonna, who unintentionally stole the show with her understated, but extremely powerful presence. Mother Judd left the stage for a good half of the concert, to let her daughter bask in the limelight.
It didn't take much for the her to get started. All Wynonna had to do was strap on her guitar, play a few chords and, with her sultry way, seduce fans into a frenzy.
The historic concert didn't escape glitches. Wynonna had bronchitis but sang through it with the aid of throat spray. Of course, no one could tell. She growled and belted and crooned without any noticeable loss of voice.
The evening ended with the First Presbyterian Choir rejoining the Judds for a song about freedom, liberty and the power within.