After 43 years of marriage, country music legend Alan Jackson recently opened up about a personal health battle he’s been facing. The iconic singer revealed that he’s been struggling with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a progressive neurological disorder that has affected his balance and ability to perform.
While the condition isn’t life-threatening, it has had a significant impact on his life and career.
Despite these challenges, Jackson remains dedicated to his music. He announced his farewell tour, “Last Call: One More for the Road,” which will take place throughout 2024 and 2025, giving fans one final chance to experience his performances.
Alan Jackson has been a towering figure in country music for over 40 years, known for his unique blend of traditional country sounds and honky tonk.
At 64 years old, he has sold more than 80 million records, earned a place in the Grand Ole Opry, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017.
Jackson’s personal life has seen its share of heartache and struggle. Last year, he revealed his diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which came after the devastating loss of his son-in-law, Ben Selecman, in 2018.
Ben, who was married to Jackson’s daughter Mattie, tragically died from head injuries he sustained while helping a woman onto a boat. The loss was a heavy blow to the family, and Ben was remembered for his humor and potential.
This grief has influenced Jackson’s recent music, particularly in his albums Angels & Alcohol (2015) and Where Have You Gone (2021), which explore themes of loss and healing. Jackson and his daughter Mattie co-wrote a song called “Racing the Dark,” which reflects their shared pain and resilience.
Mattie has also written a book titled Lemons on Friday: Trusting God Through My Greatest Heartbreak, where she shares her journey through grief and faith. The book discusses her involvement with NaSHEville, a business she co-founded to support women in the music industry.
Even with his health struggles, Jackson’s commitment to performing is as strong as ever. His farewell tour will be a celebration of his remarkable career and enduring love for music.
The Jackson family’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity continue to inspire many, and their story touches the hearts of fans around the world.
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