“My background has put a desire in my heart to make a difference through my music.” — Becca Bowen
Raised in West Columbia, South Carolina. Where would you take a first-time visitor in and around your hometown?
I would definitely take them fishing at our beautiful Lake Murray, and then a trip to Riverbanks Zoo which I love and downtown Columbia to see the State House. Then enjoy some of the fine dining that is near that area.
Country charm with a gospel background. Started singing at age five in church, which you’ve described as having completely shaped your life. Your unique musical style blends traditional country with a soulful approach.
Your recent release, “This Christmas,” is about finding peace in the true meaning of the holiday. How does your faith influence the music you create?
If you listen to my music in everything you will hear a soulful bluesy sound that comes straight from my love of singing gospel music. Singing in church taught me how to speak to people and deliver words with passion. It’s shaped the artist I am and my faith has given me the strength to stay strong through all the trials that come with the music industry. My background has put a desire in my heart to make a difference through my music.
Won Season 5 of the Outdoor Channel’s For Love or Likes in 2021. The show determined if Instagram famous female hunters were passionate about the outdoors or if they were only interested in gaining social media fame.
You enjoy a lot of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, working out, and being out on the lake. Where are your bucket list places to hunt?
I would love to hunt in Texas or Colorado. Although I am just as happy hunting in my small town as well. I honestly just enjoy sitting in nature and the feeling of peace I get in the woods.
Spending Christmas with your family at Dollywood has become a new holiday tradition. You mentioned being interested in playing Parton on Broadway. Which song of hers is your favorite and why?
My favorite song that she sings is “Coat of Many Colors” because it tells the story of the greatest gift of all, which is love. She is an incredible story teller and the reason I write music today. One of the most inspiring people that I know of. She is a dreamer and someone I can truly relate to! Never giving up on her dreams. I would love to play her role on Broadway, but even if I don’t get the chance, I will definitely go see it! I can’t wait to see her story on Broadway!
Working in musicals, like Nashville’s live show, Shiners, with Chuck Wicks, combining cirque, comedy and of course moonshine and Theophany, with Jake Hoot, a story of faith, perseverance, and miracles. Besides playing Parton on Broadway, which other musical theater roles would you like to perform?
It’s always been a dream of mine to play Sandy in Grease. I have wanted to play that role since the first time I saw the movie!
Debut album, Like You’ve Never Been Loved, 2022 to last year’s EP, County Line. As hard as this industry can be, you continue to work to be seen and heard. “Singing and writing music are what makes my heart happy.” How do you make sure to balance working in the music industry with your private life?
I have always been very good at balancing my private life and career. I’m very private when I’m off stage. I feel that some things just have to be protected. I tell my friends that one day they will get invited to my wedding and they will have no idea I was even dating someone. I’ve just learned to juggle my career and private life very well! I have my priorities in line and it keeps it easy to juggle.
Going out on the road for shows. You shared the best thing about your job is getting to meet new people and travel, always taking in the views. Can you share a fan story about how your music has impacted their life?
I absolutely love meeting people. Just recently I sang at the Listening Room in Nashville and someone came up to me and said that my song “County Line” brought them to tears because they could relate to it. That she started a new journey and the words hit home for her. It gave her the confirmation that she was doing the right thing in her new venture.
I told her that this is what it’s all about for me. I want to make a difference and through music I have been able to do that. Hearing stories from fans of how they can relate to my music, makes the struggles worth it for me.
“Heartbreaking Business,” “My co-writer Sam Woods and I were talking about how it’s difficult to find love. Dating is hard these days. It can be dangerous and tough in the game of love. He had this awesome guitar riff that came to him, and we started writing it and the rest was history! At the time, I happened to be going through some issues with a guy who I found out was playing me and telling me everything I wanted to hear. I recognized the game quickly and the term “I’m in the ‘Heartbreaking Business’ too” came from my experience.” How do the pressures of being in the public eye affect building relationships in your personal life?
In relationships sometimes it’s hard to know who is in it for the right reasons. With being in the public eye it’s hard to trust everyone. I’m a pretty good judge of character and I always go with my gut feelings. I can spot someone with the wrong intentions a mile away.
You are a dog lover, mom to Peanut and Diesel. “They both are absolutely precious and so loving. They bring me a lot of joy. I would say to anyone who deals with depression or loneliness or even just would love to have a dog, that they will become like your best friend. They truly sense when you are sick or going through difficult times and are there to comfort you.” Where are some places they like to explore with you?
My Chiweenie, Peanut, goes everywhere with me! She is small so she gets to tour with me. She loves being outdoors and is very spoiled! My dog Diesel loves to play outside so I usually take him to the lake and that’s what he enjoys the most!