Alan Jackson’s Bold Stand for Country Music Legends

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Alan Jackson, a country music icon, has made waves in the industry by taking bold stands for authenticity and tradition in his genre. His commitment to traditional country music is evident in powerful moments throughout his career.

One significant instance occurred at the 1999 CMA Awards. Jackson, inspired by legendary singer George Jones, decided to honor him during a performance. Jones was nominated for Single of the Year for his song “Choices” but was told he could only perform an abbreviated version. Disappointed, Jones chose not to attend the ceremony. Jackson, feeling the situation was unfair, began to sing his own single “Pop A Top” before unexpectedly switching to “Choices.” Jones later said of the gesture, “What he did meant more to me than I could ever say. … He made a huge statement on my behalf.”

In 2000, Jackson teamed up with his friend George Strait to perform “Murder on Music Row,” a song criticizing changes in the country music scene. With lyrics highlighting the loss of tradition, Jackson sang, “The almighty dollar and the lust for worldwide fame / Slowly killed tradition.” Although the song was never released as a single, it became a Top 40 hit.

In another memorable incident, during a 1994 performance of “Gone Country,” Jackson made a statement by performing without drumsticks, which many fans noticed, showcasing his determination to stay true to his roots. He wore a Hank Williams Jr. shirt during the performance, stating it was a fan gift and symbol of his respect for country music pioneers.

Jackson’s authenticity continues to resonate with fans as he prepares for the upcoming 2025 CMA Awards, where he will once again share his love for traditional country music. As he has shown over the years, Jackson believes in standing up for the music he represents, influencing generations of artists along the way.