As the curtain begins to close on one of country music’s most legendary careers, Alan Jackson gave fans a moment they’ll never forget — one filled with raw emotion, personal history, and the power of music to heal.
An Unforgettable Moment in Orlando
During a March 2025 stop on his Last Call: One More for the Road farewell tour in Orlando, Florida, Alan Jackson became visibly emotional while performing his 2002 hit song, “Drive (For Daddy Gene).” The track, which he wrote in memory of his father Eugene Jackson, brought the entire Kia Center to a standstill.
As he sang lyrics about the cherished moments of learning to drive with his dad, Jackson’s voice cracked, and tears welled up in his eyes. He turned from the mic, clearly overcome with emotion — and the audience felt it. The crowd responded with a long, thunderous applause, sharing in the moment of remembrance and love.
“I wrote this song when my daddy passed away,” Jackson told the crowd, his voice trembling. “I didn’t want it to be just sad—I wanted it to be meaningful.”
His Ongoing Battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
In 2021, Alan publicly shared that he had been battling Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease — a hereditary neurological condition that affects the nerves and muscles in the limbs. He revealed that he had been living with the condition for more than 10 years.
Now 66, Jackson often relies on a stool or pole for support on stage due to issues with balance and coordination, symptoms directly related to CMT. Despite the challenges, he continues to show up for his fans — night after night — determined to finish his farewell tour with grace and heart.
A Farewell That’s Anything But Final
Although he hesitated to label his 2021 tour as his “last,” Jackson extended the journey with his 2024-2025 farewell tour as a gift to fans — giving them one last chance to hear the songs that helped define an era of country music.
From Chattahoochee and Remember When to Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning), Alan’s music has touched millions. But Drive holds a special place in his heart — and in his fans’ hearts, too.
A Legacy That Lives On
Even as his touring days wind down, Alan Jackson’s legacy is only growing stronger. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, a multi-award-winning artist, and one of the most authentic voices the genre has ever known.
His emotional performance in Orlando served as a reminder: country music isn’t just about sound — it’s about storytelling, connection, and staying true to your roots.
Jackson’s music will continue to inspire new generations, long after the final song is sung.
