Willie Nelson's classic country song, "Always On My Mind," has been a beloved tune for years. A slew of other artists have recorded it. But it has also served a very surprising function for one Hollywood star. On June 3, on The Kelly Clarkson Show, actor Jackie Chan, 71, revealed that he used that song to help him learn English. Clarkson, who was fascinated, was also charmed by the humorous but true declaration from Chan. Not only did he tell her how he found that song to be a valuable tool for learning the language. Chan sang a little of it as well, then gave a mock bow. This guy can really carry a tune!
Videos by Wide Open Country
Jackie Chan Told Kelly Clarkson Something Eyebrow-Raising About A Famous Song
Per People, Chan said to Clarkson, "I learn English in country songs, because country songs [are] slow." But when he sang some of "Always On My Mind," Clarkson was almost speechless. She was actually floored by his ability to sing so well. "I'm sorry, I just got serenaded by Jackie Chan, that's how I'm going to take this day away."
Chan Acknowledged That Language Was An Obstacle When He Was Filming Movies
He admitted to Clarkson that while he was filming Rush Hour in 1998, he had difficulty understanding actor Chris Tucker. "The whole movie," Chan said, "I don't even know what Chris Tucker's saying." Chan credited his dialogue coach, who was seated right behind the camera, with giving him some help and telling him when to speak. Still, it was evident that Chan needed to better his English skills.
The Classic Willie Nelson Song Has A Distinguished History
It was recorded by Brenda Lee and Gwen McCrae more than 50 years ago. Elvis Presley came along and covered it. A decade later, Nelson recorded it. Per the outlet, "The track saw a rebirth when Presley's version was featured on the soundtrack and as a plot point in Practical Magic in 1998."
Nelson's version was wildly successful. Per Wide Open Country, it scooped up major honors like three Grammys plus three CMA Awards. An impressive haul indeed!
I would really love to know what Willie Nelson would think about Jackie Chan using it to learn English!
