Reviews of Albums, Songs & Memoir

“An Unstoppable Survivor” reviews:
2 Editorial reviews

Judy Welden’s starkly honest memoir will grip your emotions as she relates a story of struggle, challenges, and ultimate success. Travel with her as she recalls a full spectrum of childhood emotions, youthful romance, motherhood and stardom as an internationally recognized songwriter and performer. You will feel like you really know Judy as you turn the pages of her memoir. – Charlene DeWitt, Author, former VP-Northeast Georgia Writers Founder/Leader of Tall Tales Family Farm Writers and Founder/Leader of GNC Writers

Judy Welden’s life story is both interesting and inspiring. A gifted and prolific songwriter as well as a talented singer, she has won many awards, but the recognition didn’t come easy. Many will relate to her struggles to overcome difficulties while forging forward with a career. The book is also entertaining and, yes, at times, funny. This remarkable woman has the uncanny ability to tell a brutally honest story which leaves the reader feeling motivated and uplifted. – Laurie Hyatt, Ph.D., author of: Think Your Way to Happiness & Silent Decision

5 ***** Star Reviews of those who purchased Memoir:

Sherry P Compelling and honest, down to earth and real. Judy is kind, introspective and refreshing! ***** – Reviewed in the United States on September 18, 2021 – I wanted to stay up all night to read Unstoppable Survivor! Judy’s story is so relatable, touches one”s heart. Poignant!

miss kitty The long-awaited autobiography of singer/songwriter Judy Welden ***** – Reviewed in the United States on August 14, 2021 – For those of you unfamiliar with the inimitable style of Chanteuse Judy Welden I can only say “RUN” and grab one or more of her CDs. Then pour a glass of wine, kick your shoes off and let her smooth as satin voice caress away the cares of the day. Her new book, Unstoppable Survivor: Memoir of Singer/Songwriter Judy Welden is the perfect listening companion. For you folks who already know and love Miss Welden, her much anticipated memoir has arrived! (She has also kindly included 50 pictures and a discography of 90 original songs, all of which are heard on you-tube and most all are heard on one or more on her 9 CDs.)
In An Unstoppable Survivor, Miss Welden offers an intimate look inside the heart and soul of an American woman who doesn’t give up in her search for love and never settles for second best in herself.
Spanning several decades, many of the challenges she faced were the challenges of all women in a world before Women’s Lib and equal opportunity between the sexes. Enduring 20 years of marriage to a man incapable of expressing affection, Miss Welden turned inward, pouring out her feelings in song lyrics with a poignancy and humor that is utterly relatable.
Miss Welden never stopped writing! During her illustrious career she had hits in nearly every category; Blues, Gospel, Country, Jazz, performing and recording both here and abroad. Her vibrant soprano and old-school style had mass appeal. Miss Welden accomplished all that while raising a family, operating various business ventures to support herself and setting up her husband’s chiropractic practice!
An Unstoppable Survivor takes the reader on a fascinating journey.
Often heart wrenching, always frank, I discover a woman solidly guided by her personal integrity, faith in God and never failing belief in herself. Miss Welden is not a survivor by dodging life’s obstacles. Rather, she greets every challenge head-on and using her remarkable ingenuity comes out on top every time!
I’m so grateful to Miss Welden, ‘Judy’ for sharing herself with me in friendship. She’s my inspiration as I hope her book will be to you.
Thank you, Judy..from the bottom of my heart.

Raymond J. Lani What a woman! Amazing gripping story of persistence and survival through music.***** – Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2021 This book is a true treasure. Anyone who has struggled in life, and we all have, will benefit from Judy’s story. She is an amazing person and singer/songwriter. But she is much more than that. To find out and be truly inspired this is a must read for anyone of all ages and background. She has achieved much success as a gifted singer and songwriter. But also she has crossed over to so many other avenues in her life. They all lead back to an incredible person. Read this and see why everyone doesn’t have to be beaten by all of life’s struggles, as Judy shows us the way up through it all with music, hard work, talent, survival, and faith. 5 stars all the way. Ray Lani

carol A prolific song writer completes her memoir ***** – Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2021In her memoir, Judy Welden takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of her life as a young girl, moving from town to town, and then a wife, mother, singer and song writer. Reading her story, you will see that she truly is a survivor and she even has a song to prove it. You can read the lyrics to “I’m A Survivor” in her book. Also included, are dozens of her song lyrics which cover a wide variety of topics and music styles, including a cute camping song that she wrote and her daughter sang! Judy has led a truly memorable life. By Carol Reidy

Renee L Propes –  Honest – Heartwrenching***** – Reviewed in the United States on September 12, 2021 – In An Unstoppable Survivor, Judy Welden writes a beautiful story about her life – intimate and honest accounts of her life and her ability to face each day with a positive outlook. A natural survivor, Judy Welden is a wife, mother, author, and poet, but most of all, she’s an accomplished woman who enjoys a career in music. She’s a singer/songwriter and pairs the lyrics of her songs with the stories in this book. 
Seldom do I enjoy memoirs, but this one is different. Judy’s led such an interesting life, and her writing evokes many emotions-you’ll feel you are going through life with her. You’ll not want to miss reading An Unstoppable Survivor.  Renee Propes- Author of Duplicity-A Story of Deadly Intent and Fractured-A Story of Broken Ties

Laurie HyattA talented singer/songwriter overcomes obstacles -Reviewed in the United States on May 24, 2021 – This is a brutally honest story of Judy Weldon’s life, from the abuse and betrayal she left behind to lifting herself up to become an award-winning singer/songwriter. A story of commitment, perseverance, and faith, Judy shares how she overcame adversities and focus on her craft. She has songs too numerous to name and a life that is interesting and also relatable.

Siuberto Socarras A captivating, entertaining, and educational memoir*****Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2021As one of Judy Welden’s co-writers and as her friend, I can say this book will capture your mind and heart – at the same time. She has an honest delivery that you do not find these days in most books. It’s refreshing to know that is how Judy is in real life – honest, business savvy, and creative. It’s almost like she is writing a letter to you and you are opening it for the first time. Musicians and non-musicians alike will get to experience her strategic, creative, and spiritual approach to life. I highly recommend Judy Welden’s “An Unstoppable Survivor”.

 

 

 

 

           

 

           Link to hear all Songs + CD Info                               Link to hear all Songs +CD Info 
 
Review of both new Albums released in May & July, 2018 (by David Leonard)
A review of the Best of Judy Welden’s 20 favorite songs & Judy’s 20 Gospel songs of Faith gave me insight into her passion for writing and singing the songs she wrote.
One of my favorites of Judy’s gospel songs is Amazing Grace.  She puts her heart and soul into singing this song that has been sung many times over the years, however no one can sing it the way Judy does.  She sings it like she is singing to the Lord with all her heart and I’m sure everyone who listens to it will be blessed.  I am so pleased to hear this song each time I listen.
Another song on Judy Welden’s 20 songs of Faith album that I really like is “You Are There For Me”, written by Judy Welden and Roy Crabb. It is the song that has taken Judy to # 1 on the international roots chart for 18 1/2 weeks!  18 1/2 weeks (4 1/2 months) is quite an accomplishment and has brought her a lot of attention.  Judy has such a happy voice when singing this song and everyone who listens will be singing with her after listening a couple of times.
A long time singer/song writer,  some of Judy’s accomplishments include signing at the historic Ryman Auditorium, performing at the Zenvenbergen Festival in Holland and touring in 6 other countries.
Her former manager, Ursula Kiel, encouraged Judy to release 20 of her best secular songs and 20 gospel songs of faith in separate albums and I think every person who listens to Judy’s songs will enjoy them all and want to listen to her wonderful songs over and over again.
On the Best of Judy Welden – 20 Favorite Songs 25th Anniversary Album is a song I really like a lot. It is ” Hurry Up Sunrise” written by Judy Welden and Tina Billias.  This is a song that will  warm your heart and is very uplifting.
Another song l really like is “Love Conquers All. This song takes me back to that wonderful time in the early 60’s when songs like this were so popular.  If you listen to this song a few times, I feel sure you’ll not only be blessed  but you’ll be singing along.
All of Judy’s songs are great. The 4 songs above are my favorites. Your favorites may be different from mine, however when you purchase either or both albums, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a very good value.
Judy has been an online friend of mine since she was introduced to me by my brother Fred (also a singer/songwriter) in the latter part of 2002.   It is a relationship I have treasured all these years.
David Leonard

Review of Judy Welden Gospel – 20 Songs of Faith (by Marion Randall)

          There are so lovely Songs on this CD.  I love the polophonic singing  (harmony) which
is so typical of Gospel Music
! You sing the second and first voice, 
OK, we sing two voices
on Country Music but These Songs Sound really typical Gospel.  Great Job Judy.
          Love and hugs
          Marion
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 Multiple Reviews “Pain Shy Blues & Tribulation CD (copied & pasted from CD Baby site)
     Note:  All writers below gave the CD 5 Stars *****

 

Link to hear all songs + info

By Laverne Hill – I love this CD

Judy I love this CD. The voice fits the style and you seem
to be so confortable in singing each song. This shows your
ability to keep on trying new things. You are a life saver
to me and truly wish you the most success in your career.
Keep putting out projects like this and I’m sure you will
be on all the playlist. The music is great also.
 
By Ray Lani  – Wow, great album from a great singer/songwriter!
Wow, what great album, from a great singer/songwriter!
My 2 personal favorites are: “Don’t Say You Love Me” and “Come On Home”, but there
are many, many more to choose from to please everyone who likes songs with a blusey touch.
You will not regret checking this album out, and adding it to your collection.
 

By Gladys Mitchell – Wondeful work vocal and music

This CD is surely one of the best.
Judy you have done it again sure glad you made this one it will make a lot of people happy
Enjoyed it so very much
 

By Elleke Nollen – warm, emotional and bluesy feel.

Good girl !This album will be a great succes !I’ll never forget the Zevenbergen Country festival in Holland when you were with us.I like all the numbers but I’m Pain Shy and Too Old Blues , brings back the good old memories again. You can make it, just like always.Compliments to you!
 

By Anna Marie Burden – Wow pain shy and peace in the valley

love peace in the valley and pain shy sounds great you are really great girl. anna marie burden (songwriter)
 

By Allen Foster – Heartfelt and genuine! (Former Editor of Songwriter’s Monthly)

A fine, fine collection of music from an extremely talented woman who was obviously born to write and sing. Her lyrics, ideas and images are stunningly fresh. Judy gets your heart racing with tracks like Roller Coaster Ride then comforts you the tenderness found in song such as Peace In The Valley. My current favorite is If You’re Man Enough. Check it out!
 

Jim McKnight – Another great CD from Judy. Her music is always the best!

Judys latest CD is just another in a line of great music. She brings the best out of the lyrics. I highly recommend any of her CD’s and especially this one.
 

By Fred Leonard – Judy, once again I have got to say…job well done!

I like most all I have heard from this CD. The songs are put together well and sung with a conviction, that is apparent and most enjoyed! I am happy for the the artist as I think this is one of her better works. I am also glad to call her friend. I especially like cuts number 6 and 8 and I recommend it very highly to anyone who is serious about a quality recording artist works such as Judy Weldens!

By Charlette Gunkowski – I still play them!
Still sounds as good as when you first gave me the songs. I still play them! 
 

By Suzie Merwine – If you love country blues….you’ll love this album!

If you love country blues, Pain Shy is a must. You can tell with each song Judy Welden sings that she has lived every song she writes, and it just doesn’t get any better then that. This album is a MUST…. if it’s Country Blues that you’re into! Congratulations Judy on an album well done.
 

By Susan – What a Gem!

Judy is a singer songwriter with a distinctive voice that will quickly capture your heart.
My favorites are Pain shy and your cover of Peace in the Valley. Keep Singing!!!!
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Review for GRACE CD
 
By Laverne Hill –  5 Stars *****
Judy’s CD’s are very enjoyable. Beautifully written songs.
and she has great delivery. One of the most talented
singer, songwriters in the business!
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Reviews for  Chasing A Dream CD
 
By Ray Lani – 4 Stars ****
Judy is a very accomplished singer/songwriter and this cd showcases her talent. She has a very appealing way of putting over a song. Check out this cd and you will agree, that this gal has it all. I just love the entire cd.
 
By Laverne Hill – 5 Stars *****
Judy you are so talented. And no one works as hard as you
do, to do a good job on all your projects. Your harmony is
great and I wish we lived close enough to sing together
sometimes. I’ve listened to these songs. There is a lot of variety and I really enjoyed the musicians too. Best to you always.
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Review of Forever Grateful CD

By Fred Leonard – 5 Stars! Love this CD

I have purchased both Judy’s Country Hits(1992-98) and Forever Grateful CD and both are very much a work of art! If I had to choose one over the other, It would be hard but, I really like the unique things about both CDS! When I am in the mood for Inspiration, I play Forever Grateful. When I want to hear some good story tellin Country music sung by a one of a kind true professional, I play her Country Hits CD! The more I play both of them, the better I like them, and you will too!
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Reviews of Judy Welden Country Hits (1992-98)
By Scott Wullkotte – Now this is is true country music ! *****
If you love TRUE COUNTRY MUSIC and HEART FELT LYRIC’S then you must listen to this CD. Judy is an awesome songwriter and vocalist and this album has great musicianship and production on it. It’s the whole deal! Keep up the great work and as your motto, and mine too says… Never Give up!!
 

By Anna Marie Burden – great job gal; love your songs! *****

hey judy wanted you to know i love your songs . little sassy and cute too. beautiful job. anna marie
 
By Fred Leonard – 5 Stars – Love all these songs!
I have purchased both Judy’s Country Hits(1992-98) and Forever Grateful CD and both are very much a work of art! If I had to choose one over the other, It would be hard but, I really like the unique things about both CDS! When I am in the mood for Inspiration, I play Forever Grateful. When I want to hear some good story tellin Country music sung by a one of a kind true professional, I play her Country Hits CD! The more I play both of them, the better I like them, and you will too!
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Reviews of Woman of the 90’s CD

By David Leonard – Nice music! Good sound quality.

Judy’s music is very clear. Her CD has exceptional sound quality. Everyone will love
her music as it appeals to young and old alike. Be sure to listen to samples of her music!
 

By Anna Marie Burden – love the album;  great work gal

hey there judy – terrific album . love i’m hitting the road and also i’m a survivor. thanks for such terrific talent!
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Reviews for Natural Highs – A single song release 

Album Notes
Judy Welden says, “The song lyrics came about when a family member had started using drugs. I’ve never abused any substances myself, but do know first hand about the adversity it can cause a
person and their loved ones and family. Gary Wayne liked the lyrcs and volunteered to write the music.” Although Judy first heard it (in her head) as a ballad, she fell in love with the cool, uptempo melody Gary wrote for it. It went out as a single to radio stations worldwide on WHP compilation #89 in June, ’08 and was heard live, and well received, at a Celebrate Recovery dinner meeting in Gainesville, GA at the time of the release. Both Judy and Gary have high hopes for this song and truly believe it’s positive message can encourage folks to get ‘high’ on natural things! Take a listen and see for yourself… 
 
By Fred Leonard – 5 Stars *****
This is THE BEST I have heard of you Judy……keep up the AWESOME work of this beautiful sound and take me with you when you make it to the TOP! What a Natural High just listening to it!
 
By Sherry Posner – 5 stars *****
Had to tap my foot! Upbeat, real, strong and inspirational lyrics! Everyone can relate to this one…
 
By Sandy Stoflet – 4 Stars ****
It’s a natural feel good song. I loved it. Keep up the good work!
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