Alan Jackson photo courtesy of Sony Music Nashville.
This week is a significant milestone for Alan Jackson: It marks 20 years since “Here In The Real World” climbed into the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Since then he’s landed more than 50 titles in the Top 10, literally taking him from rags to riches.
Alan was one of the first artists to break through after Arista Records opened its country division, and he’s been with the label ever since, although it appears those days are numbered. What the future holds for him remains to be seen.
“This is actually my last album for Arista,” he told Billboard. “My contract is up after this, so I guess I’ll be doing something for somebody or on my own. I don’t know yet. I haven’t really thought about it that much. I guess it’s time to start thinking about it now.”
The world has changed dramatically in the two decades since Alan signed that first deal, so he finds himself at a crossroads he could never have imagined. The Arista label is no longer an upstart, having found success with such acts as Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Diamond Rio. The rise of the Internet has changed the business model for the music industry: Albums are on the decline while downloaded singles are on an uptick. And numerous recording artists have established their own labels, including Gretchen Wilson, Big Kenny and Alan’s one-time duet partner, Jimmy Buffett.
So Alan has a number of factors to take into consideration as he moves forward. One option that’s not in the mix is retirement. As long as he can keep having hits and draw people to some 50-60 concerts each year, he plans to keep making music.
“I’ve always said there’s not much to retire from,” he observed. “It’s not really hard work. This is a business. This is a job. You have to work, commit and be dedicated. It’s also fun and rewarding, and it’s not near as hard work as most of my fans have to do for a living. It’s hard to complain.”
Alan’s final Arista album, Freight Train, is due March 30.
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Roll with the flow Alan but don't you dare quit. Love your singing and the way you having of putting the audience right in the palm of your hand. You are the greatest.
Alan Jackson is by far the best country singer/songwriter ever. I have been to several of his concerts and just love him. He is pure country and I hope he never changes. You will always be my favorite Alan. Keep on singing and writing those beautiful country songs.
for me, up there with Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson; & George Strait
There is no other singer that can shine above Alan. He's country, unlike some of those so call artists. This is why I don't watch CMT because they will play just anything and call it country…I will always buy Alan's CD's and attend his concerts.Way to go ALAN.
ALAN, YOU ARE FOREVER THE BEST COUNTRY SINGER, EVERY TIME YOU COME UP WITH A NEW SONG, I GET EXCITED TO LISTEN TO HIT, I HAVE TOO MANY SONG FAVORITES, SO KEEP ON SINGING AND LET ME SEE THOSE LONG LEGS, I GO TO EVERY CONCERT YOU HAVE IN LOS ANGELES AREA, AND I WILL KEEP DOING THAT IF YOU KEEP ON GOING. GO FOREVER ALAN AND I WILL LISTEN, YOUR BEST FAN!!!!!.
Alan Jackson keeps it cool and country. His songs are real and straight to the heart…..He is the modern day Country Poet……Those blond curls and long legs make him a joy to watch and then his mellow voice charms everyone……Long live AJ
Alan Jackson single handly renewed my intrest in Country music. Take it to the top Alan. Go out on your own. You have always done it your way – George Jones song at the awards. Alan’s talents far surpass so many other artists he just has to keep on doing what makes him the happiest!
Alan is my favorite male singer.I love the way Alan sings every song he sings.I also love the way Alan writes songs.To me Alan’s writing is the greatest I have ever heard.He puts so much feeling into his writing and singing.I will always listen to Alan sing those great songs and I hope he will be around for many years to come.
Buffett as a one-time duet partner? As far as I know they have recorded 4 duets together: Margaritaville (CD Under The Influence, 1999), It’s Five O’clock Somewhere (CD Greatest Hits Vol. II, 2003), Boats To Build (CD License To Chill, 2004) and Barefootin’ (CD Hoot – the soundtrack, 2006).
With the talent and longevity of his career, I think Alan Jackson will definitely be around for years to come. His voice and range keeps his Fans coming back over and over. I think Alan is one of the best voices left in Country Music and most creative when it comes to presentation of his work. he can sing a "Love Song " with so much heart.. He is my favorite Singer/Songwriter and will remain so.
Keep it coming Alan, Your work will last a Lifetime!
It only take his fans to help him stay above water, and Alan is one of thoes Country stairs that can do Just that. Alan Can remain strong under any kind of stress
Alan is one of those stairs that will never be forgoten…Shine on Alan shine on…..
Alan is the best singer/songwriter out there. And it does take us, his fans, to keep supporting his work as the music business continues to change! Keep doing what you do, Alan. You are such a fine example of what a good man should be in addition to being the face and voice of Country music..