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Inspiration • August 5th, 2026
|Nashville-based singer-songwriter Richie Owens is set to bring his unique blend of country, rock, and punk to the UK with a special tour this August. Known for his deep roots in music and a career that has spanned decades, Owens will be joined by fellow musicians Bob Ocker and Joe Sharp for what is being called The UK Pub Crawl. This tour will take them across historic pubs in Yorkshire, Oxfordshire, and beyond, starting on August 11 and running until August 18, 2026.
Tour Highlights
The trio will perform intimate acoustic sets that celebrate their shared musical heritage. This tour coincides with the release of their new project, Appalachia: Ballads, Bloodlines & the Long Journey Home, which combines music and storytelling. This project is the first in a series that aims to keep the spirit of live music alive in traditional pub settings, appealing to both younger and older generations.
Richie's Musical Journey
Richie Owens has an impressive background that informs his music. Born in 1960 into a family with strong musical ties, he has spent his life blending the sounds of country with the rebellious energy of punk. His father, Louis Owens, was a singer-songwriter who contributed to the early career of the famous Dolly Parton. Richie himself has been a key figure in the Nashville music scene, having been part of bands like The Resistors and The Movement, and running his own label, Neo Records.
Over the years, Owens has collaborated with a variety of well-known artists, including The Georgia Satellites and Vince Gill, and has produced albums for Dolly Parton, such as Hungry Again and Smoky Mountain DNA. His versatility as a musician and producer has made him a respected figure in the industry.
Tour Dates and Locations
The tour will feature several performances at different locations, each with its own unique charm. Here are the confirmed dates and venues:
August 11, 2026 - Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire at Grosvenor Hotel
August 12, 2026 - Goodmanham, East Yorkshire at The Goodmanham Arms
August 13, 2026 - Millington, East Yorkshire at The Gait Inn
August 14-15, 2026 - Cropredy, Oxfordshire at Red Lion Pub/Cropredy Festival
August 16, 2026 - Beverley, East Yorkshire at Sun Inn
August 17, 2026 - Leeds at House Concert
August 18, 2026 - Wallasey at The Mess, Fort Perch Rock
The shows will include both free and ticketed events, making them accessible to a wide audience. More information about tickets and availability can be found on the tour's official website.
"A whole new meaning"
This tour is significant not only for Richie Owens but also for the cultural landscape of the UK. By performing in historic pubs, the trio aims to revive the tradition of live music in intimate settings, allowing audiences to connect with the roots of Appalachian folklore. The music and stories shared during these performances will remind attendees of the deep connections between the UK and Appalachian culture.
Richie Owens expressed his enthusiasm for the tour:
“I’ve been blessed to perform across the UK for over 35 years, but Smoky Mountain DNA has given those journeys a whole new meaning. Every show is now a chance to celebrate the shared heritage, music, and stories that connect Britain and Appalachia.”
Next volume
After the UK Pub Crawl, fans can look forward to the next volume of the Appalachia series, set to be released on September 18, 2026. This ongoing project continues to explore the rich musical traditions of the Appalachian region and aims to engage listeners with both new and classic sounds.
Richie Owens, Bob Ocker, and Joe Sharp are ready to bring a slice of Appalachian culture to the UK, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
