Samson native Shane Owens brings country tradition to Peanut Festival

Growing up in Samson, Shane Owens always saw a future on the gridiron rather than on a stage.

But with a new album on the way and a performance scheduled Wednesday night at the National Peanut Festival, Owens has found his calling in country music.

“I never dreamed of singing, because my first love was football,” said Owens, who lettered three years at Samson High School. “When I got out of school, I discovered the guitar, and the next thing I knew, I was singing at weddings and doing the nightclub scene.”

Owens secured his first record deal in 2005, scoring a top-40 country hit with “Bottom of the Fifth” before the record label closed its doors.

Now, working for a new label, the father of two is ready to release another album, which he expects to complete by the new year.

He says the new record will represent traditional country music, a genre about which he is passionate.

“I used to listen to the Opry, and Keith Whitley is my hero,” he said. “I listened to his music more than anyone else. I really tried to pattern myself off him vocally. This record really represents that traditional sound.”

As for his stage show, Owens and his band, 231 South, strive to involve the audience in a set that mixes original songs with classic country covers.

“We’re gonna have a blast,” he said. “It’s a high-energy show. We’ll do everything off the record and throw a couple old, traditional country songs in there. You’re gonna hear some good country music.”
Having played with the band for four years, Owens has developed a connection with each member that more closely resembles a family than a group of friends.

“They know in between songs when I’m gonna talk and when I’m not. It’s kind of like a brotherhood, and it’s kind of scary, to be honest,” he said. “They love to play music, and God’s blessed them with a lot of talent.”

Owens takes the stage at the Peanut Festival at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.