Alan Jackson, the beloved country music legend, has been a fixture in the music world for over forty years. Known for his unique blend of traditional country and honky tonk, the 64-year-old has sold more than 80 million records, is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017.
Despite his success, Alan has faced significant personal tragedies. Last year, he disclosed his diagnosis of a degenerative nerve disorder.
This came after the tragic death of his son-in-law, Ben Selecman, in a boating accident in 2018. Ben, married to Alan’s daughter Mattie Jackson Selecman, died while trying to help a woman onto a boat, suffering severe head injuries that led to his passing despite immediate medical attention. Ben was remembered as a rising star with a great sense of humor and dedication.
This devastating loss has deeply impacted Alan and his family, inspiring his recent albums “Angels & Alcohol” (2015) and “Where Have You Gone” (2021). These works reflect Alan’s journey through grief and the healing process.
Throughout these hardships, Alan has been a strong support for his daughter Mattie. They co-wrote the song “Racing the Dark,” expressing their shared pain and resilience. Fans can download the song by purchasing Mattie’s upcoming book, “Lemons on Friday: Trusting God Through My Greatest Heartbreak.” In her book, Mattie shares her journey through grief and how her faith helped her heal. She also discusses co-founding NaSHEville, a business empowering women in Music City.
Alan’s own health struggles have also been challenging. He recently revealed he has Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a nerve disorder affecting his ability to walk and balance, complicating his performances. Despite this, Alan remains committed to touring and connecting with his fans.
Alan Jackson and his family have faced immense hardships, yet they continue to find strength in each other. Their resilience and determination are truly inspiring. We extend our thoughts and support to Alan, his family, and all those touched by his music.
