Alan Jackson, the renowned 64-year-old country music star, has captivated the hearts of millions with his timeless blend of traditional country tunes and honky-tonk rhythms for over four decades. Alan, a member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry and inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame has made incalculable contributions to the genre, selling over 80 million records during his lengthy career. However, underlying the accomplishment is a story of perseverance and triumph over hardship.
Alan stated last year that he had been diagnosed with a degenerative nerve condition, which startled his devoted fans. This news came as he and his family were still dealing with the devastating death of Ben Selecman, the husband of Alan’s daughter, Mattie Jackson Selecman. Ben tragically died in a boating accident in 2018 while voluntarily assisting a woman into a boat.
The family is still in mourning over this sad loss. Despite these enormous hurdles, Alan Jackson has funneled his emotions into his music, using it as a means of self-expression and healing. These profound emotional experiences are everlasting impressions on his albums “Angels & Alcohol” (2015) and “Where Have You Gone” (2021). Alan’s art pays tribute to the enduring love and treasured memories of people he has lost.
As an Assistant District Attorney in the Davidson County District Attorney’s office, Ben Selecman was a rising star. Colleagues remember him fondly for his sense of humor and unwavering dedication to his career. The loss of such a gifted individual is felt deeply, and his departure has left a major vacuum in the lives of all who knew him.
Alan Jackson’s daughter, Mattie, has found peace in her faith and her father’s unshakable support in the midst of tragedy. They worked together on a dramatic song called “Racing the Dark,” a first for the father-daughter pair. This passionate piece has special value for them both and is a testament to the courage that can emerge from the midst of adversity.
Mattie has also turned her sadness into a fantastic enterprise, co-founding NaSHEville, a company dedicated to empowering women in Music City. Her rehabilitation and self-discovery journey will be documented in her upcoming book, “Lemons on Friday: Trusting God Through My Greatest Heartbreak.” Mattie discusses her profound hardships, the resilience of her soul, and how her experiences spurred her to find greater purpose and courage in this moving book.
Alan and his wife, New York Times best-selling novelist Denise Jackson, provide an emotional introduction to the book, describing their personal experiences and how they found consolation and healing after the loss of a family member. Their own experience serves as a light of hope for others traversing the perilous waters of bereavement.
While dealing with his own health issues, notably Charcot-Marie-Tooth illness, a degenerative nerve disease, Alan Jackson remains steadfast in his love of music and his desire to continue sharing it with the world. This condition, which affects the peripheral nerve system and weakens the body’s extremities, creates physical challenges for the country music icon. Alan, on the other hand, remains steadfast, promising to endure and continue performing for his beloved followers.
Alan’s steadfast commitment demonstrates his tenacity and determination. While his degenerative neurological condition may impair his ability to walk and keep balance, it will not prevent him from chasing his dream. Alan has the tenacious attitude that has made him a revered character in country music.
Let us send our thoughts and prayers to Alan Jackson and his family during this difficult time. We are appreciative as fans for the joy and inspiration his music has brought into our lives. May he find strength in the love and support of his passionate fan base, as we look forward to his future performances and treasure the timeless tunes that have been the soundtrack to our lives.