Jake Owen Defends 'American Idol' and 'The Voice'

Posted Mar 19th 2013 2:00PM by Gayle Thompson
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Jake Owen spent a lot of time paying his proverbial dues in the music business, playing in bars and small venues near his hometown of Vero Beach, Fla., before he made the move to Nashville and eventually landed his first record deal. And although his own process took several years and a lot of hard work, he isn't opposed to TV talent shows, such as "American Idol" and "The Voice," that give singers instant recognition with the public.

"I think they're great," Jake tells The Boot. "It gives people hope and it gives them a chance to really have their chance in the spotlight. Everyone has their own path in life, no matter if it's being a celebrity or a singer. Quite frankly, I didn't move to Nashville and tell myself I wanted to be a singer because I wanted to be a celebrity or I wanted to be somebody that people admired. I wasn't about that. I just loved music."

Jake adds that he believes the "American Idol" and "The Voice" contestants enter the competition for those same reasons, but they still have to work to stand out.

"Obviously, the reason they win is because they're great singers and they're great at what they do," he explains. "They know about music, and the people out there that vote, the fans, they know what great music is, because that's what's on the radio and whatever other mediums. Everyone has their own path and you can't judge. Yes, I worked hard, but that was my path. Some people choose to go on 'American Idol' or another singing contest, and some people choose to beat down barrooms before anyone even knows who they are, in order to get a fan base, so when they do get a record deal, they have that to put in front of a label. I know the things you have to sacrifice to be successful in this business. No matter how you get there, everyone goes through it. I think it's cool that people can win on a TV show like that."

Jake will continue serving as the opening act on Jason Aldean's Night Train tour with stops in Wisconsin, Minnesota and North Dakota this week. See a list of his upcoming shows here.

Watch Jake Owen's 'The One That Got Away' Video