Country music icon Alan Jackson has made the heartbreaking announcement that he's retiring from touring after being diagnosed with a serious neurological condition that has been affecting his ability to perform.
The 65-year-old Grammy winner revealed he's been battling Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, an inherited nerve condition that causes damage to peripheral nerves and leads to mobility issues and difficulty with balance.
The Health Struggle Behind the Music
In an emotional statement, Jackson confessed he's been living with the condition for nearly a decade, though he's managed to keep performing despite the progressive nature of the disease. "I have this neuropathy and neurological disease," the country legend shared. "It's genetic that I inherited from my daddy."
The condition has been gradually impacting his movement and stability on stage, making the demanding schedule of touring increasingly challenging. Jackson described how the disease "is more and more obvious" to him and likely to fans who have noticed changes in his mobility during recent performances.
One Final Bow for Loyal Fans
Rather than disappearing quietly, Jackson is giving his devoted fanbase one last opportunity to see him perform with his appropriately named "Last Call: One More for the Road Tour." The farewell tour will see the country superstar playing select dates, allowing him to say goodbye to audiences across the country.
"I've always admired my heroes like George Jones, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride who just played as much as they wanted to, for as long as they could," Jackson reflected, showing the traditional country values that have defined his career.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Despite stepping away from touring, Jackson's musical legacy remains secure. With over 44 million albums sold worldwide, 35 number-one hits, and numerous awards including 19 Academy of Country Music Awards and 16 Country Music Association Awards, his impact on the genre is undeniable.
While the disease may be forcing him off the road, Jackson made it clear that his connection to music and his fans will continue, even if in a different capacity. The announcement marks the end of an era in country music, as one of its most beloved voices prepares for his final curtain call.
