After moving to Nashville in 1985, Alan Jackson singed his first major-label record deal with Arista Nashville on June 26, 1989—30 years ago today.
Eight months later, Alan released his debut album, Here in the Real World, which spawned hits such as the title track, “Wanted” and “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow.” The rest, as they say, is history.
Over the course of his 30-year career, Alan has become one of the Top 10 best-selling country artists of all time, according to the RIAA. He has unleashed 35 No. 1 hits, dropped more than a dozen platinum albums and earned two Grammys, 16 CMAs (three for Entertainer of the Year) and 18 ACMs. He’s also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Alan may be celebrating 30 years in the industry, but he’s not slowing down. In addition to touring, he’s the sole owner and creative force behind AJ’s Good Time Bar in downtown Nashville. He is also writing and recording new music—and he is the subject of a new documentary, Alan Jackson: Small Town Southern Man, which was released on DVD this week.
Congrats on the 30-year anniversary, Alan. Not bad for a man and his mustache.
