Jake Owen Showcases Horns, Hits Beyond Radio, At Ascend Show

Photos by John Shearer/Getty Images

As part of a touring schedule keeping Jake Owen busy until at least October, the RCA Nashville star took to Music City’s Ascend Amphitheater on Thurs., April 27.

For his first headlining concert in Nashville, Owen showcased a high-energy set-list of fan-favorites alongside radio hits.

After a string of upbeat songs, Owen slowed the tempo with the memorable, “Alone With You.” Without losing the standing crowd’s enthusiasm, Owen teased with a prelude of Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies,” complete with a 3-piece horn section, before leading into a rearranged cover of “8 Second Ride.”

Offering more hits, including “Beachin'” and “Days of Gold,” complete with flamethrower pyrotechnics, the singer then covered Johnny Cash’s “Ring Of Fire,” emphasized by the backing brass section.

Owen again slowed the 90-minute set with another mega-hit, “Don’t Think I Can’t Love You,” accented by the dynamic horns.

“In a town filled with so much talent, I’m so flattered you would see the guys and I come out and play,” said a humble Owen with heartfelt gratitude for the capacity crowd, adding that he moved to Music City 13 years ago to follow his dream.

Owen even threw it back to 2006 with “Yee Haw,” the lead single from his debut album, and also played his hit “The One That Got Away.” If there were anthems that filled the venue, “Anywhere With You” and the encore “American Country Love Song,” were them.

For a rare acoustic highlight, Owen gave a tribute to the late Merle Haggard with “Footlights.” He next welcomed show opener Eric Paslay back to the stage for a mash-up of “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (co-written by Paslay) and Will Smith’s “Fresh Prince Of Bel Air.” The night’s wall of sound concluded with dazzling fireworks.

LANco and Paslay were featured as special guests for the outing. Paslay said he felt, “like we’re in the back yard.” The UMG Nashville hitmaker donned sun shades for “High Class,” following the remarkably written “She Don’t Love You.” Paslay wrapped with Eli Young Band’s No. 1, “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” another hit he co-wrote.

To catch all the action, see Owen on the recently-announced Good Company World Tour, expected to hit arenas and theaters in America, Canada and Europe in 2018.