Alan Jackson may not have performed at the inaugural 5 O’Clock Somewhere Fest, but his presence was felt throughout the weekend.
Before Ella Langley took the stage in West Palm Beach, Florida, thousands of fans looked up at the giant video screens to find a special message from the country music legend. While preparing for what will be the final show of his touring career, Jackson took a moment to thank the crowd and share his love for a place that has meant so much to him over the years.
“You know I love South Florida,” he said. “I spent a lot of my life down there. Tonight, I’m in Nashville getting ready for my last show. I’m glad y’all are there.”
Jackson reflected on the countless days he spent fishing off the Florida coast aboard his beloved Hullbilly and the memories his family made in the area. Even from hundreds of miles away, he wanted fans to know he was thinking about them.
Then, in classic Alan Jackson fashion, he kept his message simple.
“I hope y’all are enjoying it tonight. Miss Ella Langley, I know you’ll love seeing her. And the main thing—pop a top, have a good time.”
The crowd erupted as Jackson transitioned into his iconic hit, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” turning a brief video appearance into one of the festival’s most memorable moments.
The message came just weeks before Jackson’s highly anticipated farewell concert, Last Call: One More for the Road, scheduled for June 27 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. The event is expected to feature some of country music’s biggest stars, including Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Riley Green, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, and Miranda Lambert.
Jackson announced his retirement from touring after years of performing while living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a progressive hereditary nerve condition that has increasingly affected his balance and mobility. Despite those challenges, he has continued to perform and connect with fans who have supported him throughout his remarkable career.
As the countdown to his final show continues, Alan Jackson’s message remains the same as it has always been: appreciate the moment, enjoy the music, and have a good time. For many fans, that’s exactly why they’ll never forget him.