Wynonna (CD - 1992)

Personnel: Wynonna Judd (vocals); Paul Kennerly (various instruments, background vocals); Don Potter, Steuart Smith (acoustic & electric guitars); Marty Stuart, George Marinelli (electric guitar); Sam Bush (mandolin); John Barlow Jarvis, Matt Rollings, Steve Nathan, Barry Beckett (keyboards); Leland Sklar, Willie Weeks (bass); Eddie Bayers, Rick Marotta (drums); Naomi Judd, Gary Chapman, Donna McElroy, Dave Loggins, Judy Rodman, Andrew Gold, Jonell Mosser, John Cowan (background vocals).

Engineers: Chuck Ainlay, Steve Tillisch, Paul Kennerly.

Venturing out on her own after her mother and singing partner, Naomi, disbanded their hugely successful country duo, the Judds, Wynonna released this accomplished and wildly popular solo debut in 1992. Initially uncertain about pursuing a solo career, Wynonna crafted a thoroughly assured album that features stellar musicians such as guitarist Marty Stuart, mandolin player Sam Bush, and bassist Leland Sklar, as well as a little background vocal help from her mom. In addition to shining the spotlight on Wynonna's powerful voice, the record also reveals a tendency toward more dynamic material, whether it's the rock-tinged opener "What It Takes," the smooth pop tune "My Strongest Weakness," or the soulful gospel number "Live with Jesus." WYNONNA also features the gentle "She Is His Only Need" and the energetic "No One Else on Earth," both of which were hit singles. Solidifying her standing as a promising solo artist, this outing laid the groundwork for Wynonna's even more impressive follow-up, TELL ME WHY.

Daughter Wynonna Judd stakes out her own territory with her self-titled debut. It's probably safe to say that she has more in her than most people guessed. From the tender "She Is His Only Need" to the Southern rock and soul of "No One Else on Earth," Wynonna sings with a smoldering sensuality that pulsed beneath the surface of the Judds' best records -- even "Live with Jesus" sounds sexy. After a few more albums like this, folks may not even remember the Judds. It also includes "I Saw the Light" and "My Strongest Weakness." ~ Brian Mansfield minimize