Caroline Owens: Finding Truth in the Music

Episode Summary On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with bluegrass singer-songwriter Caroline Owens to discuss musical influences, songwriting, artistic growth, and the importance of honesty in music. Caroline has one of those voices that immediately makes you believe what she’s singing. Throughout our conversation, we explore where that authenticity comes from and how it shapes her approach to both performing and writing songs. We talk about Caroline’s early years growing up in Denton, North Carolina, where bluegrass music and nightly jam sessions were part of everyday life. She shares how Dolly Parton and Alison Krauss helped shape her musical identity, not simply through their singing but through the way they approached their music and treated others. We also discuss the remarkable experience of seeing musical heroes become friends and collaborators, including her work with The Isaacs, and why stepping outside your comfort zone is essential to growing as an artist. A significant part of our conversation centers on Caroline’s project Low Flying Planes. She shares the story behind the title track, a deeply personal song she wrote several years ago and held onto until she felt ready to record it. We discuss the musicians who helped bring the project to life, the remarkable efficiency and creativity of Nashville’s studio players, and the challenges of finding the right moment to release music that means something to you. We also spend time discussing Evangeline, a song Caroline co-wrote with Lacey Green that explores domestic abuse through the lens of traditional bluegrass storytelling. Caroline explains how the song challenged some of the genre’s familiar narratives and why she felt compelled to tell the story from a different perspective. She shares some of the deeply personal responses she’s received from listeners who recognize their own experiences, or those of someone they love, in the song. Throughout our conversation, we return to the idea that great music doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. Whether we’re talking about the influence of songwriters like Dean Dillon, Robert Lee Castleman, and John Pennell, or the responsibility of carrying musical traditions forward, Caroline brings a thoughtful perspective to the relationship between a song, the person singing it, and the people listening. Key Takeaways Caroline began singing at just two years old and grew up surrounded by the thriving bluegrass community of Denton, North Carolina, where jam sessions helped develop her musical foundation. Dolly Parton and Alison Krauss were defining influences on Caroline’s singing, shaping her understanding of emotional honesty, musical expression, and the importance of connecting with an audience. Working with musical heroes, including The Isaacs, taught Caroline the value of building genuine friendships and embracing uncomfortable situations as opportunities for artistic growth. The title track of Low Flying Planes was written entirely by Caroline and remained unreleased for several years until she felt personally and artistically ready to share it. Caroline discusses the extraordinary musicianship of Nashville’s studio players and how their preparation, instincts, and efficiency helped shape the sound of her new project. Co-written with Lacey Green, Evangeline challenges traditional bluegrass murder-ballad conventions while addressing domestic abuse, giving listeners a powerful story with which many have personally connected. Caroline believes the lasting power of bluegrass and acoustic music comes from authenticity, emotional connection, and the ability of a well-written song to communicate something deeply human. Music from the Episode Telluride - Caroline Owens Old Time Church - Caroline Owens (feat. The Isaacs) Evangeline - Caroline Owens About the Podcast The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by musician Brad Williams, featuring thoughtful conversations with artists, musicians, songwriters, producers, and other creative voices. Each episode explores the experiences, influences, collaborations, and creative decisions that shape a life in music. From the stage to the studio and everywhere in between, The Bandwich Tapes goes beyond the music to discover the stories and people behind it. Connect with the Show Have a question, comment, or suggestion for a future guest? I’d love to hear from you. Email: [email protected]