Jake Owen discusses sobriety, aging, and wisdom in interview with Palm Beach Post before Florida tour.
Singer-songwriter Jake Owen hails from Vero Beach, Florida, and took a leap of faith over 20 years ago, dropping out of college just shy of his degree to pursue his music career in Nashville. Since then, Owen has experienced significant success, releasing albums, landing top charting hits like “Yee Haw,” and touring with country music legends like Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood.
Returning to West Palm Beach’s iThink Financial Amphitheatre on October 24, Jake Owen is set to perform alongside reggae icons, the Dirty Heads, as part of a Florida-only tour hitting various cities in the state. This tour promises a mix of genre influences, showcasing Owen’s diverse musical style that incorporates elements of country, hip-hop, reggae, and rock.
Ahead of the release of his eighth studio album, “Dreams to Dream,” Owen shared insights into his evolving approach to music. Produced in collaboration with Shooter Jennings, the album is receiving acclaim for its initial two tracks, with the title song reflecting Owen’s personal journey and aspirations. Owen emphasized the importance of authenticity and honesty in his music, moving away from solely chasing commercial success to creating music that resonates with him on a deeper level.
Working closely with Jennings, Owen gained a new perspective on his artistry, leading him to revisit his roots of songwriting. While the album has been categorized as a return to a more traditional sound, Owen believes it represents his commitment to showcasing heartfelt, real songs over highly produced tracks. He acknowledges the ever-changing landscape of music and embraces the freedom to create music that reflects his current state of life and inner truths.
In a significant personal development, Owen shared his decision to embrace sobriety four years ago, highlighting the positive impact it has had on his life, relationships, and overall well-being. By choosing to abstain from alcohol, Owen found clarity, peace of mind, and a newfound sense of pride in his choices. Reflecting on his family history of alcoholism, Owen recognized the importance of breaking the cycle and setting a positive example for his children and loved ones.
Beyond his music career, Owen remains deeply connected to his hometown of Vero Beach, where he established the Jake Owen Foundation in 2010. Each November, the foundation hosts charitable events like a fishing tournament, comedy jam, fun run, and songwriter splash, culminating in a charity concert. Over the years, the foundation has raised nearly $9 million, impacting numerous individuals and causes in the community.
While Owen humbly acknowledges his role in spearheading these initiatives, he credits the collective efforts of generous philanthropists and community members for the foundation’s success. Witnessing the tangible impact of their contributions, Owen expresses gratitude for the support and unity that continues to drive positive change through the foundation’s charitable endeavors.