June 26, 1989 may have seemed like any other day in Nashville, but it was actually one of those watershed moments that only reveal themselves in retrospect.
A struggling young country singer named Alan Jackson signed his first recording contract that day, launching one of the most celebrated country music careers of all time.
What were Alan Jackson’s early career years like?
For someone who would go on to such a promising career, Jackson got off to a slow start with his first single, “Blue Blooded Woman,” failing to crack the Top 40.
But his next single, ‘Here in the Real World’ – the title track from his debut album – reached the Top 5 and was followed by a quick succession of hits, including ‘Wanted’, ‘Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow’ and ‘I’d Love You All Over Again.’
Since then, the singer-songwriter has amassed an astonishing 50 Top 10 hits, 26 of which reached No. 1.
Jackson has also won numerous Grammy Awards, CMA Awards and ACM Awards. He is a member of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry.
The Country Music Hall of Fame inducted Jackson in 2017.
Is Alan Jackson retiring?
Yes.
The Country Music Hall of Famer has been dealing with a chronic health problem for more than a decade, and it’s getting worse.
Jackson unveiled in 2021 that at that time he had been living with a degenerative nerve disorder, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, for ten years. It causes nerve damage, especially in the arms and legs.
According to the Mayo ClinicCharcot-Marie-Tooth disease causes muscle contractions and loss of sensation, making walking difficult.
Jackson’s three daughters are now all grown, and he and his wife, Denise, have two grandchildren, which also influenced his decision to retire.
“…I’m enjoying spending more time at home,” he said. “But my fans always show up to have a good time, and I’m going to give them the best show I can for this Last Call.”
When is Alan Jackson’s last concert?
The last full concert performance of Jackson’s career takes place on June 27, 2026 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.
Billed as Last Call: One More for the Road – The Finale, the show will take a bow on Jackson’s music career.
READ MORE: Alan Jackson’s Nashville Finale Show – Everything We Know
Who will perform at Alan Jackson’s farewell concert?
Luke Bryan, Erik Kerk, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, Riley Green, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Lee Ann Womack and many more will honor the Country Music Hall of Famer.
Will Alan Jackson’s final concert be televised?
Yes, eventually.
Jackson’s final concert will air on NBC and then stream on Peacock.
The premiere date has not yet been announced.
Is Alan Jackson dying?
No.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is not fatal and will not shorten Jackson’s life.
However, there is no known cure for the hereditary disease.
Jackson’s grandmother, father and one of his sisters all lived with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Will Alan Jackson release more new music?
Jackson said yes optimistic about releasing more new music in an interview with his daughter, Maddie, about her Live in joy podcast in 2023.
“Well, I hope so,” he told her (quote via People).
“I mean, I may not have toured much, but like I said, the creative part sticks out every now and then. I’m always writing down ideas and thinking about melodies, and I have a feeling there’s more music to come, yeah.”
14 Country Stars Living With Serious Health Issues
Carly Pearce, Mark Chesnutt and Colt Ford have all made headlines lately for serious medical issues, but they aren’t the only country stars living with a chronic illness.
Gallery credit: Sterling Whitaker
The 30 Best Alan Jackson Songs of All Time
Throughout his career spanning over three decades, Alan Jackson has released some of country music’s most essential songs ever. His catalog includes classic barnburners like “Chattahoochee,” tender ballads like “Remember When,” and everything in between.
No matter which songs are your favorite, it’s hard to argue that Jackson’s music changed the country music genre forever.
Gallery credit: Carena Liptak
Leave a Reply