Wynonna Judd is set to release her first studio album in a decade, marking a significant milestone in her four-decade country music career. The album, titled "The Hard Truth," will be available starting Friday and represents her debut as a primary songwriter. At 62, Judd’s latest work also serves as her first collection of original material following the death of her mother and longtime musical partner, Naomi Judd, who died by suicide.

The album signals a notable artistic shift for Judd, blending traditional country instrumentation like fiddle and steel guitar with elements of 1970s folk-pop. This stylistic evolution invites listeners to engage with Judd’s voice in a new context, framed by personal reflection and vulnerability.

Judd described the album as a cleansing, an effort to break free from the constraints that previously held her back from writing and sharing deeply personal stories. “I’ve wanted to write before, but I was either ignored — not heard — or afraid,” she said. She explained that her hesitancy stemmed in part from the controlling dynamic with her mother, who insisted on maintaining a “sparkly and wholesome narrative” for their public image and discouraged her from diverging from that script.

“I’m just not going to die with secrets,” Judd said, emphasizing her decision to embrace openness even if it involves risk or discomfort. Her choice to confront and share her truth reflects a departure from past reticence, signaling the album’s role as both a personal and artistic rebirth.

The conversation took place in Judd’s Tennessee home, located approximately 40 minutes from Nashville. The setting, a large white country house with traditional architectural features, also included a glimpse into her workspace, described as a cozy office with dark wood accents.

"The Hard Truth" offers insight into Judd’s journey toward self-expression and resilience amid loss and longstanding familial pressures. As she steps into the role of primary songwriter, the album may redefine her musical identity for longtime fans and new audiences alike.