Printable Biography of Naomi Judd

---

"I'm a communicator," says Naomi Judd, "whether I'm expressing myself through writing a song or a book or I am singing, acting, speaking at an engagement or even chatting one-on-one with a stranger on the street. Finding a way to share our common experiences is my grand passion."

Naomi first expressed this passion of communication as half of country music's most famous mother/daughter team, The Judds. There, she also first captured national attention during the duo's meteoric rise. Their popularity earned them 20 top 10 hits (including 15 #1s) and kept them undefeated for eight consecutive years at all three major country music awards shows. In addition, the duo won 5 Grammys and a vast array of other awards and honors. As a songwriter, Naomi also won a Grammy for "Country Song of the Year" with the Judds' smash hit "Love Can Build A Bridge."

In 1991, after selling over 20 million albums and videos in a mere seven years and at the pinnacle of their phenomenal career, The Judds' reign came to an abrupt end. Naomi was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, a potentially fatal chronic liver disease that forced her retirement. Their duet ended on a high note when their "Farewell" tour was the top grossing act and their farewell concert was the most successful musical event in cable pay-per view history.

With unwavering optimism and characteristic inner strength, Naomi stepped out of the spotlight to explore paths that have led to new successful endeavors. Today, she is completely cured of the Hepatitis C virus and uses the strength of her own experiences as spokesperson for the America Liver Foundation. In 1991, Naomi created the Naomi Judd Education and Research Fund, using her household name and personal time to raise invaluable awareness of the deadly Hepatitis C virus as well as research funds for the American Liver Foundation.

Though her creativity continues to flow through music and writing, today Naomi also expresses her energy on humanitarian activities, social issues and personal growth education. Her natural ability to act as a translator between academic communities and everyday people makes her a truly unique figure. Her background and knowledge on various health and family related issues has led to invitations to speak at countless conventions, seminars and high profile summits as well as numerous media awareness campaigns and Capitol Hill hearings.

Naomi Judd - Former registered nurse, well versed in women's health concerns, sings the benefits of harmony between mind, body and spirit. Naomi has addressed the heads of the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the 2001 Bio-Technology Convention. Naomi is on Dr. Andrew Weil's board of directors as an advocate for integrative approaches to medicine incorporated alongside more modern technology.

Naomi Judd - Former uninsured single mom on welfare. Naomi advocates health care reform on behalf of the 44 million Americans who have no medical coverage. She has spoken candidly during public appearances and press interviews about her personal experience of raising two small children as a single mother on welfare with no medical insurance.

Naomi Judd - Former Domestic Violence Victim. Naomi's story as a victim of domestic violence makes her a powerful motivational speaker against such injustices. She shows how emotional and physical scars can be transformed into inner strength and fulfillment.

Naomi Judd - Mother of two highly successful daughters. One of Naomi's priorities is the restoration of the family. Naomi's Home Companion, a cookbook filled with deliciously simple recipes, "food for thought" and family photos, was written by Naomi as a guide for encouraging families to spend time together around the dinner table. Daughters Ashley and Wynonna along with her two children, Elijah and Grace, share adjoining farms with Naomi, making it convenient for their many "family time" activities and "get togethers."

Naomi Judd - Humanitarian. Believing that "service is the work of the soul and we're here to grow in love, wisdom and be of service," Naomi is active in humanitarian and social issues participating in anti-violence programs like the Safe School Summit, and the Women's World Peace Initiative. She's on the board of M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), a board member of USA Weekend's Make A Difference Day (promotiong volunteer work), a member of the Parents Television Council, and has donated her time and money to Kids on Stage (local school program promoting the arts). In addition to helping start a hospice in her hometown, every Fourth of July the small town Ashland, Kentucky girl returns home for the Judd's Annual Food Drive to stock the Appalachia pantry.

Naomi Judd - The Communicator. Her rare combination of extraordinary talent, modesty, and "tell it like it is" candor has earned Naomi the moniker of "The Star Next Door." Truly, she is just as comfortable mingling with the rich, famous, and influential as she is hanging out with friends and neighbors at her rural farm. She has the gift of fitting in while standing out.