Not one for interviews, long acceptance speeches, or self-promotion, Alan Jackson has always been an artist who lets his songwriting speak for itself.
This approach has served the 56-year-old from Newnan, Georgia well, ever since he transitioned from working in the Nashville mailroom at TNN to launching a music career that began with 1989’s “Here in the Real World.” He is now considered one of country music’s living legends. Over his career, he has achieved 35 No. 1 hits, nearly 60 million album sales, and won 17 Country Music Association Awards, 16 Academy of Country Music Awards, and two Grammy Awards — all while maintaining his signature humility and charm.
He is currently celebrating 25 years in the industry with his Keepin’ It Country Tour, which makes a stop Friday at the Resch Center. This will be his first-ever performance at the venue and his first show in Green Bay in 15 years.
Although Jackson isn’t available for interviews, here are 10 reasons to love him:
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A True Traditionalist: In a 2013 interview with The Baltimore Sun, Jackson lamented the loss of “real” country music. While he acknowledged there is still good music and artists, he expressed sadness that the traditional, rootsy sound might never return to mainstream radio.
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The Iconic “Chattahoochee” Video: The 1993 hit features Jackson singing about youthful summers along the Chattahoochee River in Georgia. The nostalgic video shows him waterskiing and having a blast, becoming a classic summer anthem.
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1999 CMA Awards Protest: In a bold act of solidarity with George Jones, Jackson transitioned mid-performance from “Pop a Top” to Jones’ “Choices” after Jones refused to attend the awards when told he could only sing a shortened version. Jackson walked off to a standing ovation and didn’t return for the rest of the show.
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Consistency is Key: Despite changes in the country music scene, Jackson has stayed true to his sound. Many members of his band, The Strayhorns, have been with him for most of his career, and producer Keith Stegall has produced all but one of Jackson’s 23 albums.
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The 2001 CMA Awards Tribute: Just weeks after 9/11, Jackson performed “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” capturing the nation’s grief. The song became a No. 1 hit in six weeks and won multiple awards.
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Meaningful Collaborations: Jackson is selective about collaborations, making them significant. His 2003 hit with Jimmy Buffett, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” was a massive success. His duet with Zac Brown, “As She’s Walking Away,” won him a second Grammy.
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Family-Centric Music: Jackson’s lyrics often reflect his personal life, offering fans intimate glimpses into his world. “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” honors his father; “Remember When” is about his marriage; “When I Saw You Leaving (for Nisey)” followed his wife’s battle with cancer.
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“Murder on Music Row” with George Strait: This powerful duet criticized the pop influences invading country music. It won CMA awards and was performed at Strait’s final concert before a record-breaking crowd.
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George Jones’ Funeral Performance: Jackson closed the funeral with “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” paying heartfelt tribute to his idol and friend. Their relationship was long-standing and full of mutual respect.
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His Signature Cowboy Hat: Standing at 6’4”, Jackson’s white cowboy hat is part of his iconic look. He’s said it hides a scar on his forehead, and his wife once advised against black hats due to his fair skin and blond hair — so the white one stuck.