“At Wednesday’s CMA Awards, Alan Jackson was presented with the association’s Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, following an all-star tribute performance by Dierks Bentley, Jon Pardi, Carrie Underwood and Lainey Wilson.

“Underwood opened the tribute with a rendition of Jackson’s 2003 hit ballad “Remember When.”

“”The very first concert I ever went to was an Alan Jackson concert,” Underwood said on stage. “Seeing him perform helped inspire me to pursue my dreams.

“”It’s been said that country music is three chords and the truth. And in every one of Alan Jackson songs, there is truth, for his powerful voice speaks to us about hope and heartache, about fun and friendship, about tragedy and triumph. About life, and a little about love. Alan, you have friends in every corner of this great country, and a special few of them are here tonight to honor you.””

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