Thursday night (May 8), the Academy of Country Music marked 60 years of the ACM Awards at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and it was Alan Jackson who gave the night its most emotional moment. As he prepares for retirement from touring due to health issues, Jackson delivered a heartfelt performance of his 2003 hit “Remember When,” leaving countless fans — and himself — fighting back tears.
The crowd was already on its feet before Jackson sang a note. Skipping flashy production, he let the song’s touching lyrics take center stage, backed only by softly lit visuals and the “Remember When” video playing behind him. It was a powerful reminder of why Jackson has been one of country music’s most beloved voices for decades.
Jackson, who has scored 35 No. 1 Billboard country hits, could have chosen any song for what may be his final ACM Awards appearance. Instead, he chose one that perfectly matched both the show’s milestone celebration and his own reflective moment in his career.
Adding to the emotional night, Jackson was honored with the inaugural Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Reba McEntire, who also hosted the event for the 18th time. In his acceptance speech, Jackson reflected on his journey from humble beginnings, thanking his fans, collaborators, and especially his wife, Denise, for her unwavering support.
Jackson has been open about his battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a hereditary neurological disorder affecting his mobility and balance. He is currently on his farewell tour, “Last Call: One More for the Road,” with his final performance scheduled for May 17, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
It was a night to remember — not just for the audience in the arena, but for millions of country music fans watching around the world.
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