AJ re-releases "Precious Memories" CD

The release is on ACR (Alan's Country Records) and EMI Records Nashville after originally being out on Arista.

The 15-track, Keith Stegall-produced album of classic hymns was originally recorded as a Christmas gift for Jackson's mother. The recording was very simple - just a piano and acoustic guitar - and a few CDs were pressed for Jackson's family and close friends. With enthusiastic encouragement from these friends, family and his record label, it was decided to make the music available to Jackson's fans.

"I love those songs, and they mean a lot to me," Jackson said. "I grew up singing just about every one of those. And I love that sound, of that organ, and that music really stuck with me and, I'm sure, affected how I hear songs now and write songs, 'cause a lot of those old songs are really pretty, simple melodies that stick with you."

Retail supplies dwindled as fans purchased the remaining copies of the original production. That's when the e-mails, letters and inquiries started coming. "We had so many people still wanting it and asking about it," Jackson said. "It's just amazing. So we decided to put it back out and have it available again."

The GAC (Great American Country) "Precious Memories" special will re-air this Easter weekend - Saturday, April 7 10:30 p.m. eastern, Sunday, April 8 2:30 a.m. eastern and 9:30 a.m. eastern.

Songs are:

"Blessed Assurance"

"Softly and Tenderly"

"I Love To Tell The Story"

"When We All Get To Heaven"

"'Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus"

"In The Garden"

"Are You Washed In The Blood"

"I'll Fly Away"

"What A Friend We Have In Jesus"

"Standing On The Promises"

"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"

"Leaning On The Everlasting Arms"

"The Old Rugged Cross"

"How Great Thou Art"

"I Want To Stroll Over Heaven With You"