Longevity is an appropriate word for Fort Payne's Randy Owen.
His blockbuster country music group Alabama observed its 50th anniversary in 2019 – a half-century of hits and shows. And a book.
Now, he and wife Kelly have celebrated the 50th anniversary of their marriage – February 11.
So what does a celebrity country music couple do for their anniversary? They went to a musical concert, the Ruben Studdard concert in Birmingham.
How many couples can say this: A 12-hour-long radio show was broadcast to honor Randy and Kelly for their 50 years of marriage. It was broadcast by “Redneck Junction Radio” on WRNJ-DB.
“On February 11, 2025, Randy Owen and his beloved wife, Kelly Owen, will celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of marriage. This anniversary is a testament to their enduring love, unwavering commitment, and the beautiful life they've built together. Redneck Junction Radio hopes this day will be made more memorable by its 12 hour program which will broadcast love songs recorded by Randy Owen and the Alabama band. The name of this program is ‘Love Never Fails.’”
The show featured the many positive love songs by Owen and Alabama. It omitted some of the songs that did not have a positive spin such as “Old Flame.”
When asked what is their secret to a successful and lasting marriage, Kelly Owen gave it away.
“Ultimately, a successful marriage is a journey of ongoing growth, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to building a life together," he explained. "And… never forgetting how to laugh.“
The couple live “somewhere high on Lookout Mountain” on their cattle ranch in DeKalb County.
They met in the early days of the band Alabama playing nightclubs in South Carolina.
In the words of one of their hits, their love still “feels so right.”
Randy serves on the Board of Trustees of his alma mater, Jacksonville State University. They never forgot where they came from.
“My home’s in Alabama.”
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler writes about Alabama’s people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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