Alan Jackson has enjoyed many “fun times” on the road over his 30-plus year career.
The country music icon, always seen with his signature cowboy hat, held his final concert in Milwaukee last Saturday.
At 66, Jackson announced his retirement from live performances last year due to significant health challenges, embarking on what he called “the last call: another road tour.”
“You’ve probably heard that this is, you know, a bit of a big deal. Actually, this is my last roadshow of my life,” Jackson shared with the audience in a video that circulated online. “Yeah, this is going to hit hard.”
He continued, “This might be my final tour, but there’s a big farewell show planned for Nashville next summer. I really want to wrap things up where it all began—Nashville, Tennessee.”
Jackson’s team did not respond immediately for comment.
He began this current tour after revealing his struggle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a progressive nerve condition that affects his mobility, which he was diagnosed with in 2011.
“I’ve got this neurological disorder, and I inherited it from my dad. There’s no fix for it, but it’s really been noticeable over the years,” he mentioned in an interview with the “Today” show back then.
Jackson admitted feeling “self-conscious” while performing, particularly as it affects his balance on stage.
“I know I’m swaying a bit right now,” he explained. “Even just standing at the microphone, I have some difficulty balancing, and it’s really uncomfortable.”
He expressed relief about discussing his condition, noting, “It’s kind of a weight off my shoulders to talk about it. I was becoming increasingly aware of my stumbles on stage. If anyone’s curious about my walking issues, now you know.”
In 2023, despite his challenges, the two-time Grammy winner shared intentions to create new music.
“I continue to jot down ideas and think about melodies. I do feel like I have more music in me,” he said while appearing on his daughter Matty Jackson’s podcast, “In Joy Life.”
“I might not be touring much, but like I said, the creative spark comes to me occasionally,” Jackson noted.
“Writing songs is ultimately more fulfilling. Going on tour can feel repetitive after a while,” he added.
