Jason Owen

Before applying for The X Factor, Owen performed in local pubs and clubs and at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. He also worked in his family's fuel business. Owen cites Dr. Hook, Smokie, John Denver, Celine Dion, Elton John and Cat Stevens as his musical influences. He became the runner-up to Samantha Jade and subsequently received a recording contract with Sony Music Australia. Owen released his debut single "Make It Last", which would have been his winner's single if he had won The X Factor, on 23 November 2012. The single peaked at number 47 on the ARIA Singles Chart. Owen's debut studio album Life is a Highway was released on 26 April 2013, and debuted at number five on the ARIA Albums Chart.