Alan Jackson reveals nerve disorder
- Nate Rau, author of Axios Nashville
Alan Jackson performs in May 2021. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Capital Concerts
Country Music Hall of Famer Alan Jackson has a degenerative nerve condition, he disclosed in an exclusive interview with Jenna Bush Hager on "Today."
Why it matters: The 62-year-old superstar said that for the last decade he's dealt with a condition called CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder), which causes abnormalities in the nerves that control the feet, legs, hands and arms.
- It has now progressed to the point where it is impacting his ability to perform.
What he's saying: Jackson told Bush Hager he has been "stumbling around onstage" and wanted to explain the situation to his fans.
- "I was starting to get so self-conscious up there … so if anybody's curious why I don't walk right, that's why," Jackson said. “I just wanted the fans and the public to know. I don't want 'em to think I'm drunk onstage because I'm having problems with mobility and balance."
- Jackson said CMT won't kill him, but it has been getting worse.
- "I don't want people to be sad for me; it's just part of life," Jackson said. "I've had a wonderful, beautiful life. I've been so blessed. It's just good to put it out there in the open.
- "In some ways, it's a relief."
What's next: Jackson, an inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Songwriter Hall of Fame, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, has hardly slowed down.
- He's headlining an Oct. 8 concert at Bridgestone Arena, the only remaining show listed on his website.
- "I'm not saying I won't be able to tour. I'll try to do as much as I can," Jackson said in the interview.