Every now and again, we talk about changing the national anthem. “Advance Australia Fair” has served us well since 1974, but it was written by a Scot. And even with the recent lyric change, it still doesn’t really represent who we are as a nation. I think a much worthier option is “Sing Australia,” the latest single from proud Wiradjuri man, Jason Owen.
Yes, it’s a bit cheesy. But just see if you’re not feeling all patriotic by the end of it. I love that it highlights so many of the people and places that make Australia home. It celebrates unity and what we can do working together. I’d feel pretty proud belting this out. What about you?
When Jason Owen appeared on X Factor in 2012, the nation lost its collective mind. He came second in the reality TV competition, no mean feat for a country kid without real training, but I wasn’t quite convinced. I knew he had something, but I felt he needed time to develop as an artist.
His last release was a covers album dedicated to John Denver. It was appealing, but it also made me wonder whether Jason had hit his stride as an artist. So I’m thrilled to hear his new single “Apple Tree,” his first original track in nearly two years. This song shows a new maturity in Jason’s writing and voice. It seems Jason is every bit as enthusiastic as I am about it!
“I’m pumped to be releasing my first original song in over a year and a half,” he said. “I’m excited about my new feel with ‘Apple Tree’ as I believe it’s time for a slight change from what I have released in the past six years. I really hope that everyone enjoys the slightly new feel with the single ‘Apple Tree’.”
Jason has a couple of shows coming up. Hear “Apple Tree” and all your old favourites at the following gigs.
10 August 2018 – Temora Ex-Services Club, Temora
11 August 2018 – Dubbo RSL, Dubbo
18 August 2018 – Lizotte’s Newcastle, Newcastle
When Jason Owen appeared on The X Factor, he was a diamond in the rough. He did well on the TV talent show, but I honestly thought he wasn’t ready for the big time. He seemed so unsure of himself, and his voice had some growing to do.
However, Jason’s worked hard on his craft since leaving the show and he’s now producing country-rock music equal to anything coming out of Nashville. His latest single “Run,” the first lifted from his third album Proud, has a real Keith Urban vibe that really resonates with me. I think it’d be the perfect road trip soundtrack, with its rollicking guitar chords and message of escaping the day-to-day humdrum of life.
Proud hits stores in April. If “Run” is any indication, it could be Jason Owen’s best work yet.
After months of knockout rounds, Samantha Jade was the last person standing on last night’s X Factor final. The Western Australian pop princess took the title from second-place getter Jason Owen and boy band The Collective.
This has been a funny season for me to watch. I switched allegiances time and time again as my favourite acts were eliminated: first Fourtunate, then Nathaniel Willemse, then Bella, and finally The Collective at the final hurdle.
I also watched Sammi grow from the girl most likely to get the boot to the last woman standing. Her confidence seemed to soar, and as she did her performances grew stronger and her voice more self-assured. Her brand of music isn’t the sort of thing I’d rush out and buy, but she’s easily as talented as other similar chart toppers like Rihanna and Beyonce.
Many spoke of Jason’s journey through the competition, but even at the end I thought he was little more than a mediocre RSL act. He seemed like a nice guy with a fairly interesting story, but I failed to see that X Factor we’ve often spoken about. I’ll be surprised if he has a career that outlasts the show’s 15 minutes of fame.
The Collective are another matter though. They’re five very good looking boys with exceptional voices. Their moves are a bit naff, but they’re the same ones Human Nature performed that made me weak at the knees as a teen. Something tells me that kind of thing doesn’t have a use by date. Look out One Direction; these guys could easily steal your fans.
The competition unearthed plenty of other great talents too. I really hope to see Fourtunate and Bella capitalising on the exposure. Angel and Nathaniel also have that special something. Once again, we’ve seen the depth of talent Australia has to offer. Congratulations to all involved!