Alan Jackson on His First Nashville Contact, Glen Campbell: ‘I Owe Him My Gratitude’
Alan Jackson is a staple in country music, but if it weren't for Glen Campbell, he may never have been the prominent figure he is today. Jackson turned to social media on Tuesday (Aug. 8) following Campbell's passing to express his gratitude for the legend — the person who helped him get his footing in Nashville:
"I owe @GlenCampbell my gratitude-he was my first contact in Nashville," Jackson writes in a Twitter post. "This lead me down the path that brought me to where I am today. #RIP"
Jackson tells ABC News Radio that Campbell was the one who landed him a deal at a publishing company when he arrived in Music City — the first step to his trailblazing career. “Back before he got sick, he was, I think, surprised at how well things went for me," Jackson admits.
Looking Back on Glen Campbell's Life
Country singers of all ages have shared their appreciation for the "Rhinestone Cowboy" in the hours since he lost his battle to Alzheimer's at a care facility in Nashville on Aug. 8. Blake Shelton, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley and John Rich are just a few who've paid tribute to the beloved Campbell with loving words and memories.
“What a powerful artistic and personal journey Glen Campbell’s passage has been. As a role model, singing guitar player he was a big influence on me,” Keith Urban says in a Facebook post. Jake Owen also turned to social media to share his rendition of "Wichita Lineman" saying, “We lost one of the greatest voices, guitar players and entertainer that our world has ever seen. Glen Campbell."
Jackson will join Campbell as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame when he's inducted this fall.
More Country Singers Pay Tribute to Glen Campbell
Glen Campbell's Life and Career in Pictures