Washington D.C. native, Berklee College of Music graduate, and 2012-13 Strathmore Artist in Residence Owen Danoff was born with song in his blood. His father, Bill, wrote such hits as “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Afternoon Delight” (the latter earning him two Grammy awards in 1976), but Owen has developed his own musical identity. Thoughtful lyrics combine with a love for good musicianship and catchy melodies to create a unique blend of pop/folk music, though Owen’s lifelong love of rock is ever evident in a live setting.
As a singer/songwriter as well as a bass player, Owen has made the rounds of the local venues. From his first D.C. area show at Jammin’ Java to performances at the 9:30 Club, the Hamilton, and the RFK Stadium grounds, he has performed on nearly every major stage in the local scene.
Owen’s newest release, the Never Trust a Man EP, is a wistful look at love, loss, and regret, featuring evocative vocal performances and finely crafted lyrics. The arrangements leave plenty of room for song meaning while the energy of great musicians playing together is ever present. Owen’s influences are hard at work here, from the early-era John Mayer in “Have I Ever Fallen” to the country flavoring of “On&On&On”, but the end result is all his own.
