Jake Owen Marks Three Years of Sobriety: ‘Life Is Great’

The Florida native urged anyone contemplating sobriety to give it a try, offering his support to those who might need it.

By

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

September 17, 2024

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4:00 pm

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Photo Courtesy of Jake Owen

Jake Owen is celebrating a major milestone in his ongoing sobriety journey. 

As of September 16, the chart-topping country star and father of two has officially reached three years of sobriety. He commemorated the milestone with a social media post, encouraging others considering giving up alcohol to take the same step.

“September 16th, 2021 was a pretty big day for me,” he began. “Three years ago, I decided that was the day. And that was three years ago, today. 1,096 days ago. 36 months ago. It might honestly be one of the things that I’m most proud of that I’ve ever done in my entire life.” 

In a selfie-style video, the Florida native went on to introduce himself and share his sobriety story. 

“So hey there boys and girls, I’m Jake Owen and I sing country music. And I decided, three years ago today, that I was not going to get on that alcohol anymore. I was not a good person. Knew in my heart [that] I was a way better person than the guy I was when I drank or just being an idiot,” he shared, honestly. “So I said I’m not doing this anymore.” 

Owen, 43, shared that when he decided to quit drinking, he also took the opportunity to apologize to those he had hurt during his periods of alcohol use.

Jake Owen; Photo by Daniel Chaney
Jake Owen; Photo by Daniel Chaney

“And most importantly,” he continued, “I told myself that I wouldn’t do it anymore. And I did it! So this really isn’t about me. I am happy for myself and I’m glad that I made a decision that has not only made my life incredible, but I noticed that it’s inspired other people around me.” 

In closing, Owen encouraged others who may be considering getting sober to take the leap and promised he would be there for them if they decide to do so. 

“So I just want you guys to know out there that if you’re considering it, do it. I’ve never ever thought the next morning after seeing some of my buddies tell me how bad their head hurts or whatever, that I would go ‘Man, I wish I would’ve done that last night’. But I just want to tell you guys, thanks for always supporting me. I love you. Life is great and I’ll be here to be your support if you need it. You know, everybody needs a buddy and I’m happy to do that for you. Love you guys,” he said. 

The “Anywhere With You” singer has been open with fans about his journey to sobriety and revealed that he was inspired to give up alcohol after embarrassing himself after “drinking too much” one night. That led him to decide “never again” and he promised to get sober for himself, but also for his family, his daughters, and friends. 

Now, three years later, Owen looks better and healthier than ever and is living his best life on tour with Dan + Shay. The current run has just three dates left before it wraps up on September 21 in Greenwood Village, Colorado. 

Owen has been sharing photos and videos from the road with fans on Instagram. Fans can keep up with him HERE

Jake Owen isn’t the only country star who has decided to get sober. Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney recently celebrated three years of sobriety. Other artists who have been open about being sober include Lady A’s Charles Kelley, Jon Pardi, Walker Hayes, Brantley Gilbert, Keith Urban, and Dan + Shay’s Shay Mooney.  

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Lauren Jo Black

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.