Jake Owen – Down To The Honkytonk

Jake Owen – Down to the Honkytonk

• Title: Down to the Honkytonk
• Artist: Jake Owen
• Album: Greetings from… Jake (sixth studio album)
• Release Date: August 20, 2018
• Genre: Country
• Label: Big Loud Records
• Songwriters: Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird, Shane McAnally
• Producer: Joey Moi

In 2018, Jake Owen released “Down to the Honkytonk”, a feel-good country anthem that celebrates the simple joys of life—cold beer, good friends, and the kind of stories that unfold only at a honky-tonk. Written by Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird, and Shane McAnally, and produced by Joey Moi, the track quickly became one of Owen’s defining hits and a fan favorite at live shows.

The single was the second release from Owen’s sixth studio album, Greetings from… Jake, following “I Was Jack (You Were Diane).” It marked his continued success under Big Loud Records, showcasing his ability to combine traditional country storytelling with modern radio-ready hooks. With its playful lyrics and toe-tapping rhythm, the song fit squarely into Owen’s signature style—laid-back, fun, and rooted in country authenticity.

The video opens with Owen, sporting a vintage cowboy pearl snap western shirt, leading a lively group of fans down a back alley near Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, according to The Boot. From there, the energy never dips, showcasing Owen’s charismatic interactions with bar-goers and a seemingly spontaneous Elvis Presley costume change during a stage performance.

Known for his destination videos, Owen once again crafts a visually engaging narrative, this time focusing on Nashville’s vibrant bachelorette party scene. A humorous moment sees Owen “rescuing” a bride-to-be from a burly biker, leading into a dreamy, heaven-inspired dance sequence where everyone dons white attire. The entire video is a blur of pedal taverns, colorful characters, and plenty of dancing on and around the bars. Owen himself, with a constant smile, embraces the honky-tonk spirit, enjoying beers with friends and soaking in the good times.

“Down to the Honkytonk” followed Owen’s previous number one hit, “I Was Jack (And You Were Diane)”. Both tracks were produced by Joey Moi, who also worked with Owen on his earlier hit “Barefoot Blue Jean Night”. The honky-tonk setting was described by Owen as a great place to socialize and listen to country music. The video shoot was described as “so much fun”. At the time of the video’s release, Owen was touring and was scheduled to appear on the singing competition “Real Country”. The video captures the song’s upbeat and celebratory theme.

Chart Performance and Award History

Released as Owen’s second single on his Big Loud Records label in August 2018, “Down to the Honkytonk” followed his number-one hit, “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)”. The song, produced by Joey Moi, achieved chart success and industry recognition.

Weekly Charts

• Canada (Canadian Hot 100): Peaked at #58.
• Canada Country (Billboard): Reached #1.
• US Billboard Hot 100: Hit #65.
• US Country Airplay (Billboard): Peaked at #7 on the chart dated April 6, 2019, after a 33-week climb.
• US Hot Country Songs (Billboard): Reached #9.
  Year-End Charts (2019)
• Billboard’s Country Airplay: Finished the year at #30.
• Billboard’s Hot Country Songs: Ranked #35.

Awards and Certifications

• 2019 ACM Awards: The song was nominated for Single of the Year.
• Certifications: “Down to the Honkytonk” was certified Gold by the RIAA on June 20, 2019, having sold 220,000 copies in the United States as of July 2019.