Owen Opens Sandbox Entertainment

Longtime record label executive Jason Owen is launching a management firm with Shania Twain as his first client. Today he is announcing the launch of Sandbox Entertainment, a full-service management and entertainment company which will be based in Nashville and open its doors on Sept. 7.

Jason Owen

Owen’s last day as Senior Vice President of Artist Development and Marketing for Universal Music Nashville will be Sept. 3. However, he will continue his nearly decade-long association with the label in a consultancy role, working with Chairman & CEO Luke Lewis.

“Shania and I have been together for over 8 years in my role at UMG and to start this new journey with her is a true privilege for me,” said Owen. “Shania is a true music icon who has broadened country music’s boundaries and brought many new fans to the genre. We have some exciting plans in the works that will expand her worldwide career into new areas of music and entertainment, which will all be revealed very soon.”

While at Universal Music Nashville, Owen developed and implemented successful publicity, marketing and creative initiatives for such chart-topping artists as Sugarland, Reba McEntire, George Strait, Billy Currington, and Laura Bell Bundy.

He launches Sandbox with extensive experience in building and managing campaigns across a wide range of platforms, and is credited for his work on high-level programs for Shania Twain and Sugarland, including producing the hit ABC-TV special, “Sugarland: Live On The Inside.”

Prior to joining Universal, Owen enjoyed an extensive and successful career in television, serving as Director of Marketing and Talent Relations at Columbia TriStar Television. His background also includes stints with Spelling Entertainment and New Line Cinema/Fine Line Features.

“During my time at Universal, I’ve also worked with many of the world’s most talented artists and many of the most dynamic people in the business, most notably, my mentor and friend, Luke Lewis,” added Owen. “I am fortunate to be able to continue my relationship with him and UMG, while branching out with this exciting new venture.”

“Jason has done a tremendous job in helping us to guide the careers of many of our artists,” commented Lewis. “While we are sorry to see him move on, we certainly understand it. We wish him only the very best and are delighted that we will continue to work with him in his consultancy role.”