Even if Alan Jackson happened to not be one of country music's most successful artists overall, he'd still have a place in history solely as the composer of the song that moved a nation after the events of 9/11/2001. "Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning)" defined the moment of the national tragedy, captured the emotions Americans were experiencing, and stands up to this day as a classic that will endure for decades to come.
Jackson first performed the song live at the 2001 Country Music Association Awards (which fell two months after the attacks). And now, 10 years later, he will likely perform it again--this time at our nation's capitol.
Jackson will be appearing at the Washington National Cathedral on the evening of September 11, along with R&B superstar Patti LaBelle and mezzo soprano Denyce Graves, for a special event called "A Concert For Hope." The event is part of a three-day commemoration of the 10th anniversary of 9/11 dubbed "A Call To Compassion."
The National Cathedral was used as a sacred national gathering place for mourning, reflection and prayer following 9/11, and is opening its doors for that weekend to honor those who died in the tragedy--as well as those left behind who still feel the need to heal.
It's not been announced for certain that Jackson will be performing "Where Were You," but it's a natural expectation he will choose to play this definitive anthem for the occasion. "A Concert For Hope" will air live on ABC affiliates nationwide at 8-9 p.m. ET Sunday, September 11. Check your local listings for more information.
In other Jackson news, the singer is currently offering his fans a unique opportunity to win a free hometown concert--all you need to do is go to this page, and cast a vote for your city (or whatever town you'd like to see Jackson play in). The city that gets the most "demands" will host the free show!
Pretty cool, right? As of this week, it looks like Charleston, West Virginia is the frontrunner. However, you can vote all the way up to October 10, so get going!
Jackson's prepping this special competition in advance of his new album coming out this fall, his first for new label EMI.
As always, be sure to: