Star-Studded Lineup Announced for 150th Kentucky Derby Weekend
The 150th Kentucky Derby weekend is set to dazzle spectators with a star-studded lineup of performers and personalities, as announced by Churchill Downs Racetrack.
The highlight of the weekend will undoubtedly be the national anthem performance by five-time GRAMMY® award-winner and country music icon Wynonna Judd. Hailing from Kentucky herself, Judd’s powerful voice is expected to captivate millions of viewers worldwide as she kicks off the historic Run for the Roses® on Saturday, May 4, 2024.
“We’re excited for Wynonna to bring her powerful voice back to Louisville to convey the wide range of emotion for which this landmark occasion calls,” said Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack.
Judd, known for her contributions to country music both as a solo artist and as part of the iconic duo “The Judds” with her mother Naomi, expressed her pride in representing her home state for such a momentous event. “The Kentucky Derby is something I look forward to every year, and being able to perform this year makes the momentous event even more special,” said Judd.
Joining Judd in the lineup is lifestyle innovator and entrepreneur Martha Stewart, who will serve as the Riders Up announcer for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Stewart’s presence adds a touch of sophistication to the event as she commands all jockeys to mount their horses for the race.
The festivities will continue with the Longines Kentucky Oaks on Friday, May 3, 2024, featuring emerging country star Lana Scott’s performance of the national anthem. Additionally, Lana will perform two original songs live during the Kentucky Oaks Survivors Parade, honoring breast and ovarian cancer survivors.
The announcement also highlighted the participation of Sonny Choi, a breakdancing star and the first American woman to qualify for breakdancing at the 2024 Olympics. Choi will call Riders Up for the Kentucky Oaks, further adding to the diversity and excitement of the weekend’s events.
With such a lineup of talented performers and personalities, the 150th Kentucky Derby weekend promises to be an unforgettable celebration of tradition, talent, and triumph.
Commentary:
The 150th Kentucky Derby weekend is shaping up to be a truly remarkable event, with an array of talented performers and personalities gracing the historic Churchill Downs Racetrack. From Wynonna Judd’s soulful rendition of the national anthem to Martha Stewart’s poised presence as the Riders Up announcer, each element of the weekend promises to contribute to the excitement and grandeur of the occasion.
The inclusion of emerging talent like Lana Scott and Sonny Choi adds a fresh perspective to the festivities, highlighting the diversity and depth of talent in the entertainment industry. Scott’s performance during the Kentucky Oaks Survivors Parade is especially touching, as it honors those who have battled breast and ovarian cancer with grace and resilience.
As we look forward to the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, let us celebrate not only the rich history and tradition of this iconic event but also the vibrant tapestry of artists and personalities who will make this year’s Derby weekend truly unforgettable.
