Judith Owen’s music has always been emotional. However, in her current chapter, something else stands out just as strongly: freedom. With her new single “That’s Why I Love My Baby” and an upcoming performance at PizzaExpress Live, Owen sounds relaxed, confident and completely herself.
Rather than chasing reinvention, she is embracing everything she has learned so far. As a result, her work feels lighter, sharper and more joyful.
Redefining the Love Song
At first listen, “That’s Why I Love My Baby” feels playful. Yet beneath the humour lies a deeper message. The song is about acceptance and honesty in long-term relationships.
Instead of idealising romance, Owen focuses on reality. She sings about loving someone exactly as they are. This idea was inspired by her husband Harry Shearer’s strong dislike of commercialised romantic holidays. Consequently, the song gently questions what love really looks like over time.
Musically, the track blends warmth with sophistication. Moreover, Owen’s delivery feels natural and unforced. The humour does not distract from the emotion. Instead, it helps the message land.
A Natural Fit at PizzaExpress Live
PizzaExpress Live has long been associated with intimacy and musicianship. For that reason, it suits Judith Owen’s live performances perfectly.
On stage, she creates a direct connection with her audience. Sometimes that connection comes through laughter. At other times, it arrives in quiet, reflective moments. Her upcoming show will feature new material alongside familiar songs. Therefore, it promises a set shaped by storytelling rather than spectacle.
A Career Shaped by Many Worlds
Judith Owen was born into a musical Welsh family and raised in London. From an early age, she was surrounded by classical music, theatre and performance. She spent much of her childhood backstage at the Royal Opera House, watching her father perform.
Because of this, music never felt distant or intimidating. However, her artistic path was never limited to one genre. Across fifteen albums, she has moved freely between jazz, blues, pop, rock and musical theatre. As a result, her sound feels personal rather than traditional.
Her 2022 album Come On and Get It marked a major shift. Inspired by overlooked women in jazz and blues history, the album was widely praised. In addition, it led to sold-out shows across Europe and the United States.
Living and Creating in New Orleans
Now based in New Orleans, Owen draws daily inspiration from a city defined by music and resilience. Not only is it the birthplace of jazz, but it is also a place that understands celebration in difficult times.
Following Come On and Get It, she released Comes Alive and Judith Owen Swings Christmas, both capturing the energy of live performance and big band arrangements. Her forthcoming album builds on this momentum. Ultimately, it reflects an artist who has found comfort in her own voice.
With “That’s Why I Love My Baby” and her return to PizzaExpress Live, Judith Owen continues to move forward on her own terms. The result is music that feels honest, joyful and deeply human.