The Randy Owen Center At Jacksonville State University Opens With Star-Studded Tribute Concert

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Pictured (L-R): Riley Green, Megan Mullins Owen, Kelly Owen, Jason Aldean, Randy Owen,
Jamey Johnson, William Lee Golden, Duane Allen and Mark Wills. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

The Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts at Jacksonville State University officially opened last week in Jacksonville, Alabama with a star-studded sold-out grand opening celebration at the “Live in Concert: Randy Owen and Friends” concert.

Some of the biggest names in country music gathered to honor Jax State alumnus and ALABAMA frontman Owen at the tribute concert, including Teddy Gentry, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Riley Green, Jamey Johnson, Pam Tillis, The Oak Ridge Boys, Mark Wills, Drake White, The Isaacs and Gordon Mote, all of who were kept secret from Owen ahead of the concert.

Each artist performed songs spanning ALABAMA’s Hall of Fame career while celebrating Owen’s impact on music, philanthropy and Jacksonville State University. The concert marked the official opening celebration of the new state-of-the-art facility, which will host concerts, educational programming, student performances, touring productions, and community events, while also serving as a learning environment for Jax State students pursuing careers in music and the performing arts.

Mark Wills. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

“What took place says everything about what Randy Owen means to Jacksonville State University and to the country music industry,” says Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “When artists and friends of this caliber come together to honor one person, it speaks to the respect Randy has earned through his career, his character, and the way he has invested in others throughout his life. Randy has never forgotten where he came from, and now future generations of students will have a place that inspires them to dream bigger, create boldly, and share their talents with the world. The impact of this facility and what it will represent will be felt at Jax State for decades to come.”

“My wishes, and my hopes, and my dreams are that someday some kid will come through here, like me, and when they leave here, they have a dream,” adds Owen. “Because if I can make it, anybody can. I’ve been so blessed to be here, and this is one day that I’ll never forget.”

The Isaacs. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

The Oak Ridge Boys. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

Luke Bryan. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

Jamey Johnson. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

Riley Green. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

Jason Aldean. Photo: Brandon Phillips/Jax State Digital Media Services

Lorie Hollabaugh
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