After 43 years of marriage, country music legend Alan Jackson recently opened up about a deeply personal health issue. The beloved singer has been battling Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a neurological disorder that affects his balance and ability to perform.
While the condition isn’t life-threatening, it has certainly made an impact on his life and career.
Despite these challenges, Jackson isn’t stepping away from the stage just yet. He’s announced his farewell tour, “Last Call: One More for the Road,” which will run through 2024 and 2025, giving fans a chance to enjoy his music one last time.
Jackson has been a towering figure in country music for over four decades, known for his signature blend of traditional country and honky tonk. At 64, he has sold more than 80 million records, is a member of 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 heartbreak. Last year, he revealed his diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and this news came after the tragic loss of his son-in-law, Ben Selecman, in a 2018 boating accident.
Ben, who was married to Jackson’s daughter Mattie, suffered fatal head injuries while helping a woman onto a boat. Ben’s passing was a tremendous loss for the family, and he was remembered for his humor and bright future.
This deep grief has influenced Jackson’s recent music, especially in his albums Angels & Alcohol (2015) and Where Have You Gone (2021). These albums touch on 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 also talks about NaSHEville, a business she co-founded to support women in the music industry.
Even with his health struggles, Jackson’s love for performing hasn’t wavered. His farewell tour will be a celebration of his incredible career and enduring passion for music.
The Jackson family’s strength and resilience in the face of such challenges continue to inspire many, and their story touches the hearts of fans everywhere.
Share your thoughts in the comments down below!
