Country music icon Alan Jackson made an emotional return to his roots this weekend, headlining a powerful hometown benefit concert that raised $2 million for tornado relief in Newnan, Georgia.
The event, titled “Where I Come From: Tornado Benefit Concert,” took place on Saturday and brought together fans, families, and fellow country artists in a heartfelt display of community spirit. Jackson, 62, was joined by special guests Chris Young and Caylee Hammack, both of whom delivered stirring performances before Jackson took the stage.
The benefit was organized in response to the devastating EF-4 tornado that ripped through Newnan on March 26, causing widespread destruction and deeply impacting residents — including some of Jackson’s own friends and family.
“It’s good to be back down here in my hometown,” Jackson told the crowd. “I’m from Newnan… my wife Denise is from Newnan. We were both born and raised here, and all of our childhood and young adult memories come from this area.”
He added, visibly emotional,
“When we saw what that tornado did coming through here a few months ago, it broke my heart. It broke Denise’s heart. We had relatives affected by it and friends. The high school we went to got hit.”
The concert was more than just a performance — it was a tribute to the strength and resilience of a town deeply connected to the Jackson family. With support from sponsors Cornerstone Building Brands and Southtowne Chevrolet, the event raised $2 million to aid local recovery efforts and rebuild affected areas.
The evening was filled with meaningful musical moments. Chris Young, who had previously recorded a duet with Jackson on “There’s a New Kid in Town,” took the stage with a heartfelt set. Rising star Caylee Hammack, a Georgia native herself, surprised the crowd by performing “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” — and was even more shocked when Jackson agreed to join her for the duet.
Jackson’s return to Newnan was not just a concert — it was a homecoming, a tribute, and a reminder of the power of music to heal. His presence and generosity brought comfort to a town still recovering, and his message of unity struck a chord far beyond the stage.