At the 2022 CMT Music Awards on April 11, The Judds—Naomi and Wynonna—delivered a performance that fans had long been waiting for: a duet of their iconic 1990 hit “Love Can Build a Bridge.” This performance marked their first nationally televised appearance together in over 20 years, making it a truly special moment.
The Judds’ reunion at the CMT Music Awards followed their announcement as future inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Their music was rekindled in the hearts of fans, who were eager to see the mother-daughter duo perform once more.
After initially disbanding in 1991, The Judds reunited a few times for special events and tours, with their most recent major reunion taking place at the “All in for the Gambler” tribute concert for Kenny Rogers in 2017. But this performance at the CMT Music Awards was particularly poignant, as it would be their final performance together.
The announcement of a “Final” tour for 2022 coincided with their CMT appearance, adding another layer of emotion to the performance. But no one knew at the time that Naomi’s appearance would be her last public performance. Naomi tragically passed away just two weeks later, on April 30, the day before The Judds were set to be officially inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Despite the heartbreak, the induction ceremony continued as planned. Wynonna, though “broken,” spoke with strength and grace, describing herself as “blessed” to be honored alongside her mother. Wynonna was accompanied by her sister Ashley during the induction, adding a heartfelt and emotional moment to an already significant occasion.
Watch the video below to see The Judds’ final performance at the 2022 CMT Music Awards. Naomi’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans, and we miss her dearly.