Country music heals, and Alan Jackson can prove it.
Listen to your favorite music now on Audacy.
While the ‘90s Country icon regularly pulls songwriting inspiration from real life trials and his family’s tight-knit relationship, there’s one song in particular he credits for going above and beyond and aiding him and his wife heal through a cancer diagnosis.
“My wife went through a tough time with cancer several years ago, and I wrote a song [‘When I Saw You Leaving (For Nisey)’],” he shared in an interview with Essentials Radio on Apple Music Country. “It was almost just something to help me as much as her.”
Jackson’s wife, Denise, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2010. After a multi-year battle, she was was able to beat it, prompting a new outlook on life for both her and Alan.
While Jackson didn’t necessarily think he’d share the song he wrote about the diagnosis with the world, he ultimately decided to release it with hopes it might help at least one other person. The tune was released via his 2012 studio album, Thirty Miles West.
“I didn't know if I wanted it to be on the album, but it was," he recalled. "It wasn't a single or anything, but I tried to think that it might help other people that are going through something like that… I've always tried to write it where it is personal, but other people can feel like that could be their life.”
Jackson showcased some of that personal songwriting during his recent performance at the 56th Annual ACM Awards. After taking time away from the spotlight, the performance was a big return to the stage for Alan who performed, “Drive (For Daddy Gene),” in honor of his late father and “You’ll Always Be My Baby,” a tribute to his daughters Mattie, Alexandra and Dani.
WATCH: Party Like A Country Star At Their Country Bars
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram