Alan Jackson made himself and the crowd emotional during his 2025 ACM Awards performance.
The country music icon, with his acoustic guitar, performed his reflective song “Remember When.” As he crooned the song, the screen showed photos and videos of his family, including his longtime wife, Denise Jackson, whom he married in 1979.
There were also photos of their children, pets and more, which appeared to also make the audience emotional. One person was seen wiping away tears.
Alan Jackson performs onstage during the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards at The Ford Center at The Star on May 08, 2025 in Frisco, Texas. Jason Kempin / Getty Images
Following his performance, host Reba McEntire awarded Jackson with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
"Alan, you know we love you," she said, before letting him deliver his acceptance speech.
"Thank you, it's quite an honor... A few years ago, one of my fans named their dog after me," he cracked, saying, that at the time, he thought that was a real honor.
He reflected on arriving to Nashville with "a paper sack full of songs and a crazy dream" and all these years after, receiving this award is "mind blowing."
"I thank God all the time, for all the people that he been part of my life and career," he continued, adding that he had so many people he would like to thank, including his fans.
Alan Jackson accepts the ACM Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award onstage during the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards at The Ford Center at The Star on May 08, 2025 in Frisco, Texas. Jason Kempin / Getty Images
But there was one person in particular, his best friend since he was 17 years old, his wife.
"She's loved me (through) the good, the bad, the happy, the sad," he continued, "influenced me and given me three beautiful daughters."
Jackson noted that after all these years, she has kept his feet on the ground.