Alan Jackson Extends Farewell Tour Amid Ongoing Health Challenges
Country music legend Alan Jackson has announced the extension of his 'Last Call: One More for the Road Tour' despite his ongoing battle with significant health issues. The tour, which was initiated in 2022, will now continue through 2025, giving fans one final chance to see Jackson perform his iconic hits live in concert.
Jackson, who has been touring for over three decades, expressed his gratitude to his fans and his desire to spend more time at home with his family. 'Fans know when they come to my shows, theyre going to hear the songs that made me who I am the ones they love,' he stated on his website. With his daughters grown and grandchildren on the way, Jackson is enjoying more time at home, but the enthusiasm of his fans keeps him motivated to deliver the best shows possible.
Health Challenges and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Jackson's decision to extend the tour comes despite his long-standing battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a degenerative nerve condition that affects his motor skills. Diagnosed in 2011, the disease has significantly impacted his stage performances, particularly affecting his balance and mobility. 'I have this neuropathy and neurological disease,' Jackson explained, 'It makes me more uncomfortable on stage, and I just have a hard time. I just want to think about maybe calling it quits before I'm unable to do the job like I want to'.
Despite these health challenges, Jackson remains committed to his craft. He has mentioned that he may continue to write songs and make music even after he stops touring. 'Its more fulfilling than anything. You can be a singer and go out and tour but its kind of like youre just doing the same thing over and over. When you make an album, or especially when you write a lot of the songs for it, thats creating something. Its a challenge, so it keeps you interested a little more,' he said in an interview.
Tour Dates and Performances
The extended tour will include performances in various cities across the United States, starting from August 2024 and concluding in May 2025. Some of the notable tour dates include shows in Boston, Grand Rapids, Fayetteville, Kansas City, Salt Lake City, Oklahoma City, Fort Worth, Orlando, Tampa, and Milwaukee. Fans can expect to sing along to Jackson's hits like 'Chattahoochee' and 'Its Five OClock Somewhere'.
Zach Top is set to open for Alan Jackson during some of the 2025 tour dates, adding an exciting element to the farewell tour. This collaboration promises to bring a fresh energy to the performances while honoring Jackson's legacy.
Awards and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions to country music, Jackson was awarded the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at the 56th Annual Country Music Association Awards in November 2022. This honor underscores his impact on the genre and his enduring influence on future generations of country music artists.
As Alan Jackson prepares to 'hang up his cowboy hat' and focus on his family life, his fans are grateful for the opportunity to see him perform one last time. Despite the challenges posed by his health condition, Jackson's determination to give his best to his fans remains unwavering.
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