Alan Jackson Cries During Emotional Farewell Tour Performance.

Alan Jackson’s farewell tour has been a journey filled with unforgettable moments, but few were as moving as his March 2025 concert in Orlando, Florida. Performing his beloved song “Drive”, Alan was visibly overcome with emotion. Written in 2002 after the passing of his father, the song brought tears to his eyes and a tremble to his voice, creating a tender and heartfelt moment on stage.

Back in 2021, Alan Jackson bravely opened up about his battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a hereditary condition passed down from his father. Now 66 years old, the country music legend shared on Today with Jenna Bush Hager that he has been managing this condition for over a decade. Despite the challenges, Alan has continued to perform live, even as CMT complicates his mobility and balance.

CMT affects the peripheral nerves, leading to difficulties in the feet, legs, hands, and arms—limiting Jackson’s physical capabilities. He has been honest with fans about these challenges, often seen performing with the support of a stool or pole. He acknowledges how this illness has made performing much more difficult, especially on extended tours.

When the tour first launched in 2021, it wasn’t originally labeled a “farewell.” However, Alan later extended the tour into 2024 under the name “Last Call: One More for the Road.” This final stretch has given fans a chance to celebrate Jackson’s iconic career and experience one last opportunity to sing along to the songs that defined generations. Even with physical hardships, Alan’s determination to continue performing speaks to his deep bond with his fans.

The Orlando show at the Kia Center captured one of the most emotional highlights of the tour. As Alan sang “Drive”, a deeply personal ballad honoring his late father, Eugene—who passed in 2000—his voice cracked with genuine emotion. Singing about memories of learning to drive with his dad, the atmosphere became intimate and reverent, as the crowd quietly absorbed every word.

“This song was born out of losing my dad,” Alan told the audience, his voice heavy with feeling. Hoping to preserve the essence of his father’s legacy, he paused at the song’s emotional peak, stepping back and letting the music carry the message. The roaring applause that followed made clear just how deeply the audience connected to his tribute.

Though Alan Jackson’s farewell tour is drawing to a close, his legacy in country music will endure for generations to come. His contributions have helped shape the genre, and his songs will continue to resonate with listeners old and new. As this final tour continues, fans are reminded of the emotional honesty and heartfelt storytelling that have defined Alan Jackson’s extraordinary career.