Holding numerous awards and a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame, Alan Jackson has left his mark on the genre over the last three decades. Although he released numerous hit songs, most remember Jackson for “Chattahoochee” and “Remember When.” But back in 1994, Jackson shined a light on the current state of country music at the time with “Gone Country.” Striking a chord with fans, it quickly hit No. 1 on the U.S. Hot Country Songs chart. With the song a hit, the ACM Awards decided to invite Jackson to perform. The only problem, they wanted him to use a backing track for the performance. Not a fan, the country singer offered a silent protest still remembered today.
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At the time of the performance, Jackson had only spent a few years in the music industry. Still, he wanted to offer fans an authentic performance. But with the ACM Awards being a massive production, the producers wanted to play it safe and use a backing track. Not liking the idea, the singer found himself in a difficult position.
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The AMC Awards Still Honored Alan Jackson After Stunt
Despite the disagreement, Jackson went forward with the performance. He even received a special honor when introduced by Reba McEntire. As the singer entertained the crowd with “Gone Country”, some noticed that the drummer, Bruce Rutherford, wasn’t using any drumsticks. Even more puzzling, it appeared the drummer was merely acting like he was playing.
The producers also noticed the silent protest as the cameras refused to show the drummer. But even with all their efforts, the moment became a unique moment in the show’s history. And for some fans, they admitted, “I watched this in 94 and didn’t notice the drummer was playing without sticks.”
Another fan poked fun at the situation, suggesting Rutherford had special powers. “The drummer is so good he doesn’t even need drumsticks. The kinetic force from his arms is enough. No need for sticks!”
While unclear if Jackson received any blowback from the ACM Awards after the stunt, his career included 17 ACM Awards. Not afraid to push back at the music industry, the singer’s protest was just one of the many highlights of his career.
(Photo by Rich Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images)
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