in

The Story Behind the Song: “Turn It Loose”

(writers: Craig Bickhardt, Brent Maher & Don Schlitz)

The Story Behind the Song: “Turn It Loose”
Photo: Will & Deni McIntyre/Getty
Advertisement

Naomi and Wynonna Judd had a whirlwind experience on August 27, 1988, that was far from ordinary. Their day was packed with unforgettable moments, starting with a special performance in San Diego for none other than President Ronald Reagan. From there, they rushed to the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines to join Randy Travis on stage. Despite a slight delay due to the windy weather, they captivated their audience with hits like “Turn It Loose,” which had already topped the charts five months prior.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wynonna (@wynonnajudd)

Advertisement

For Wynonna, “Turn It Loose” wasn’t just a song—it was a rallying cry for embracing life with abandon. She believed in breaking free from inhibitions and letting loose, a sentiment she hoped to impart to fans at Judds concerts.

>>READ ALSO: Get to know Wynonna Judd’s two kids: Elijah and Grace Pauline

The idea for “Turn It Loose” originated with songwriters Craig Bickhardt and Brent Maher, who crafted it as a lively showcase tailored to the Judds’ energetic performances. With Maher’s guidance as their producer, they fine-tuned the song to capture the essence of the duo’s style.

Advertisement

Although initially intended as a crowd-pleaser rather than a single, “Turn It Loose” received additional polish from Don Schlitz, known for his timeless hit “The Gambler.” Recognizing its potential, RCA included it on the Judds’ album “Heartland” and released it as their 13th single. The decision paid off when the song climbed to the top of the charts, marking their eleventh number one hit on March 26, 1988.

The Judds/ Amazon

By the time they arrived in Des Moines in August, the Judds had already made history by establishing their own booking agency, “Pro Tours.” Their entrepreneurial spirit was groundbreaking, echoing the achievements of legends like Loretta Lynn, who had paved the way in the industry.

>>READ ALSO: The Story Behind The Judds’ “Have Mercy”

Advertisement

Advertisement

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

20 + five =

Outlaw Music Festival Tour 2024: Your Comprehensive Guide

Outlaw Music Festival Tour 2024: Your Comprehensive Guide

Cargo Ship Collision Causes Key Bridge Collapse in Baltimore

Cargo Ship Collision Causes Key Bridge Collapse in Baltimore