History
Judith Owen: A Consummate Artist Bridging Genres
Since her emergence in the late 1990s, Judith Owen has captivated audiences, critics, and the entertainment industry with her insightful lyricism and multifaceted artistry. Her 2007 album, Happy This Way, followed the critically acclaimed Here (2006), marking a significant period of recognition that places her among a distinguished cadre of artists.
Critical Acclaim and Live Performances
Following the release of Here, which garnered an appearance on NBC’s “Today Show” and numerous other accolades, Owen embarked on extensive tours across the U.S., Canada, and the UK. Her performances have consistently drawn praise, with The New York Times describing her at New York’s The Living Room as possessing “the kind of wailing folk-jazz voice that slices away surfaces to touch vulnerable emotional nerve endings and leave you quivering.”
Collaborations and Esteemed Recognition
Owen's reputation as a compelling performer precedes her. Variety has lauded her as “a charmer and a seducer, a rocker, and a jazz chanteuse.” She has recorded and shared stages with a remarkable array of acclaimed musicians, including k.d. lang, Keb’ Mo’, Tom Scott, Julia Fordham, Ian Shaw, and Quantic. Vocalist Cassandra Wilson has called her “one of the most passionate, mesmerizing, thoroughly creative vocal artists on the scene today,” while Jamie Cullum has favorably compared her to “a female Randy Newman.”
Partnership with Richard Thompson
British folk-rock icon Richard Thompson invited Owen to join his renowned “1000 Years of Popular Music” tour, a collaboration that highlights her versatility. Her contributions to this historic project are documented on a 2006 CD and DVD, where she and Thompson explore music spanning from the 13th century to contemporary hits. Owen has become a frequent collaborator with Thompson; he contributed to her album Happy This Way, and she is featured on his album Sweet Warrior. Their partnership continues with further U.S. performances of “1000 Years” planned.
