Alan Jackson, the 64-year-old country music legend, has captured the hearts of millions with his soulful blend of traditional country music and honky tonk. With a career spanning over four decades, he has sold more than 80 million recordings and has been inducted into the revered Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017. But behind the scenes, Alan has been facing personal tragedies and health challenges that have tested his strength and resolve.

Last year, Alan shared the heartbreaking news of being diagnosed with a degenerative nerve disorder. This diagnosis came as a blow after enduring the loss of his son-in-law, Ben Selecman, in a tragic boating accident in 2018. Ben, who was married to Alan’s daughter Mattie Jackson Selecman, lost his life while selflessly trying to assist a woman onto a boat. The untimely passing of Ben has left a void in the Jackson family, and they continue to grieve this immense loss.

Despite these hardships, Alan Jackson finds solace and healing through his music. In fact, his albums “Angels & Alcohol” released in 2015 and “Where Have You Gone” from earlier this year were profoundly influenced by these personal tribulations. These albums serve as a testament to his resilience and ability to channel his emotions into his artistry.

One remarkable revelation that emerged during this challenging period was the collaboration between Alan and his daughter, Mattie. Together, they wrote a heartfelt song called “Racing the Dark.” This meaningful collaboration showcases the deep bond between father and daughter, as they navigate through the darkness of grief and find comfort in their shared creativity.

Fans of Alan Jackson can acquire this special song by purchasing Mattie’s upcoming book, “Lemons on Friday: Trusting God Through My Greatest Heartbreak.” In this book, Mattie shares her personal journey of loss and faith, as well as her determination to co-found NaSHEville, an empowering business for women in Music City.

In addition to their shared creative endeavor, Alan and his wife, Denise Jackson, a New York Times best-selling novelist, also contribute an introduction to Mattie’s book.

They share their own experiences of loss and how they found ways to nurture their daughter’s memory and cope with the pain of losing a family member. Their heartfelt words provide comfort and inspiration to those who have also experienced personal tragedies.

While Alan Jackson faces his own health challenges with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a degenerative nerve ailment, he remains steadfast in his commitment to his music. Despite occasional difficulties with walking and balance, Alan continues to perform and tour, bringing joy to his fans. He acknowledges the obstacles he faces but maintains a determined spirit, stating, “It’s not going to kill me. It’s not deadly.”

Alan Jackson’s journey is a testament to the power of courage, faith, and the healing nature of music. Through the darkest times, he finds a way to use his talent to express his emotions, connect with his loved ones, and inspire his fans. As we continue to admire his music, let us also send our prayers and support to Alan and his family during these trying times.