Three years before he released his debut single and back when he was simply known as “Al,” Alan Jackson appeared on the hit TV show, “You Can Be a Star.”
The amateur competition gave hopefuls an opportunity to showcase their talent in front of a national audience. “You Can Be a Star” aired from 1983 to 1989 and provided a starting platform for some artists that went on to be huge stars, including Alan Jackson and Trisha Yearwood.
Jackson was 27 when he appeared on the show in 1985. Roughly three years later, Alan signed his first record deal and was well on his way to country music legend status with hits like “Here in the Real World,” “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow,” and “Don’t Rock the Jukebox.”
Early in his career, Jackson developed a friendship with fellow country star George Jones. Jones was referenced in Alan’s songs “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” “Murder on Music Row,” and “Just Playin’ Possum.” George made a surprise appearance at Jackson’s CMT Giants ceremony in 2008 where he addressed his special friendship with Alan.
The two remained close friends until Jones’ death in 2013. Alan Jackson was paid tribute to Jones by singing “He Stopped Loving Her Today” at his funeral held at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
It should come as no surprise that Alan Jackson’s love of George Jones started long before the two became friends. In fact, it was the very song Alan would sing at his friend’s funeral that he sang during his first television appearance nearly 30 years before.
