It’s doubtful there was a dry eye at the 2025  ACM Awards when Alan Jackson performed. The 66-year-old sang “Remember When,” a song Jackson wrote by himself, which was released in 2003.

Images of Jackson’s legendary career flashed behind him, as Jackson fought back tears while singing the emotional song. Jackson’s performance came right before he was given the inaugural Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award. The ACM Awards host, Reba McEntire, presented him with the award.

“It’s quite an honor,” Jackson said from stage. “A few years ago, one of my fans named their dog after me, and I thought that was something. But man, this really is amazing … I came to Nashville with a paper sack full of songs and a crazy dream, and all these years later, I’m standing here receiving such an honor like this. It’s mind-blowing. I thank God all the time for all the people that have been a part of my life and career that have helped me get here and maintain it all this time.”

 

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Jackson went on to thank those who helped him throughout his career, including his wife, Denise, whom he wed in 1979.

“There are so many people, I can’t begin to thank everybody tonight that’s been a part of my life and career,” Jackson said. “But I especially want to thank my fans all over this country and all over the world that have appreciated my music so much. I thank y’all for everything. I do want to especially thank one person that’s been my best friend since I was 17 years old, and that’s my wife, Denise out there.

“She’s loved me through the good and the bad and the happy and the sad,” he continued. “She’s influenced me, given me three beautiful daughters, and helped me keep my feet on the ground all these years, and I wouldn’t be here without her. There’s not much I can say that’s better than that. Thank y’all so much for this honor, and for all the years. God bless you.”

Jackson’s days of touring are almost to an end. The Country Music Hall of Fame member will perform his final show on his farewell Last Call: One More For The Road Tour on May 17 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

“I’ve always admired my heroes like George Jones, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride who just played as much as they wanted to, as long as they could,” Jackson, who has Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, explained. “I’ve always thought I’d like to do that, and I’d like to as long as my health will allow.”

All of Jackson’s music can be found at AlanJackson.com.