Tyler Childers, The Judds, and Eastern Kentucky

I’ve been reading and writing a lot about Tyler Childer’s patch of Eastern Kentucky lately for my book on The Judds and Wynonna’s music, so seeing him play a sold out Wrigley Field Sunday night was right on time.

Tyler’s music and whole approach to becoming a stadium level artist reminds me why I’m so drawn to creative folks from Kentucky. They live in this rebellious and alive border between the north and south. It’s the point where the ideas seem to flow back and forth easiest, and their independent, often ornery spirit resonates with me as someone who just felt stifled growing up and then continuing to live in the Deep South most of my life, where cultural issues were NOT up for debate. It’s part of why I always identified with Wynonna and Naomi so much. Those women were never just gonna follow the crowd. 🤣

Thank you, Tyler, for not dimming your idiosyncracies and curiosity for anyone. It’s so encouraging to see your work in all its weird glory resonating on this level in 2026. 🙏

Also, please note the Jerry Clower footage as timed with Tyler’s singing about “the devil’s dick.” That was a favorite editing moment for me.