Country music legend Alan Jackson, 66, has officially confirmed his retirement from touring, closing a remarkable chapter in his decades-long career. During a heartfelt moment at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee on May 17, 2025, Jackson announced that his Last Call: One More for the Road Tour had reached its final stop. The news was met with emotional responses from fans, marking the end of an era in traditional country music.
Alan Jackson’s Final Show on Tour
The Milwaukee concert marked the conclusion of a tour that began in 2022, as reported by The Tennessean and other major music publications. The tour was designed as a farewell series of performances following Jackson’s 2021 public disclosure of his diagnosis with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease—a rare neurological condition.
Jackson emphasized his gratitude to fans for their ongoing support, especially in light of his health condition. Despite the challenges, he completed numerous tour stops over the past three years, showcasing his dedication to music and live performance.
A Final Tribute in Nashville
While the Milwaukee concert was the last scheduled tour stop, Jackson shared that plans are underway for a final tribute concert in Nashville, Tennessee. Though an exact date has not been announced, Jackson expressed a desire to conclude his touring career in the city where his journey began—Music City.
Nashville has always held a significant place in Jackson’s life. He moved there in the 1980s to pursue a music career and eventually signed with Arista Nashville. His debut album, Here in the Real World, released in 1990, quickly launched him to fame.
According to the Country Music Hall of Fame, where Jackson was inducted in 2017, his contributions have helped shape the landscape of modern country music. A Nashville farewell concert would serve as a fitting celebration of that legacy.
Living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Alan Jackson publicly revealed in 2021 that he had been diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a genetic neurological disorder that causes damage to the peripheral nerves. This can lead to muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and problems with balance. The condition is named after the three physicians who first identified it: Jean-Martin Charcot, Pierre Marie, and Howard Henry Tooth.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA), CMT affects approximately 1 in 2,500 people in the United States. While it is not life-threatening, it is progressive and has no known cure. Treatment typically involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthopedic braces, and other supportive care.
Jackson has remained transparent about the toll the disease has taken on his ability to perform. In interviews with Today and People Magazine, he described experiencing increasing difficulty with balance and mobility, which affected his stage presence. However, he expressed a desire to continue making music even if touring was no longer viable.
Legacy of a Country Music Icon
Alan Jackson’s influence on country music spans more than three decades. With over 75 million records sold worldwide and more than 35 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, he is widely regarded as one of the genre’s most successful and beloved artists.
His music blends traditional honky-tonk sounds with heartfelt storytelling, evident in hits like “Chattahoochee,” “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” and “Drive (For Daddy Gene).” Jackson has received multiple Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and ACM Awards throughout his career.
In 2001, his poignant performance of “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” following the September 11 attacks earned him a Grammy and cemented his role as a voice of comfort during national crisis.
Fan Reactions and Industry Support
Following Jackson’s announcement, social media was flooded with tributes from fans and fellow musicians. Many expressed appreciation for his transparency and resilience, noting how he continued to perform live for several years despite his diagnosis.
Major publications such as Rolling Stone, Billboard, and USA Today have praised Jackson’s dedication to authenticity and his contributions to keeping traditional country music alive in an evolving industry landscape.
Artists such as Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Brad Paisley have publicly acknowledged Jackson as a mentor and influence in their careers. The country music community is expected to honor him further in the coming months, especially with the anticipated Nashville concert finale.
What’s Next for Alan Jackson?
Though his touring days may be over, Jackson has not ruled out continuing to write and record music. He owns a home recording studio and has previously released albums independently. According to Billboard, his latest studio album, Where Have You Gone (2021), debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and was widely acclaimed for its traditional sound and emotional depth.
In various interviews, Jackson has mentioned that creating music remains a deeply personal and rewarding process for him. Fans may look forward to new material in the future, even if live appearances become less frequent.
Raising Awareness for CMT
Jackson’s openness about living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease has brought attention to a relatively under-recognized condition. The Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation and CMTA have highlighted his advocacy as valuable in increasing public awareness and research interest.
Awareness campaigns, fundraising events, and partnerships with medical research organizations are often bolstered by public figures speaking openly about their conditions. Jackson’s story may inspire others with CMT or related disorders to seek support and advocate for greater visibility.
Conclusion
Alan Jackson’s announcement of retirement from touring marks a significant moment in the history of country music. His decision comes not as a retreat, but as a thoughtful transition—one shaped by health realities and a desire to preserve the quality of his performances.
As he prepares for what may be one final celebration in Nashville, Jackson continues to represent the values of authenticity, humility, and artistic dedication. His legacy is not only secured in charts and awards but also in the emotional connection his music has created with millions around the world.
For those who have followed his journey, the farewell may be bittersweet, but the music—and the man behind it—will endure.
Sources:
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
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Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA)
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Country Music Hall of Fame
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Billboard
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The Tennessean
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People
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Today Show – NBC
