“Performing in front of people can be very fun”

The Weldon Homecoming is going to be rocking n rolling.

Owen Knap will be performing from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 21 at the Nixon Township Park.

Knap, who recently performed at Royal Days in Royal, said he was inspired to create music from a young age.

“What inspired me to get started with music was just the radio and a constant music environment around me as a kid,” Knap said.

Knap, who likes to play country or country rock, has upcoming gigs at the Illinois State Fair on Aug. 14, the Jack Daniel’s Singer/Songwriter event in Farmer City on Aug. 17 and the Mahomet Music Festival on Aug. 24.

To prepare for shows he likes to check and then double check his equipment.

“I tend to forget stuff,” he said.

He also tends to his voice.

“I drink tea and honey to make sure my throat is coated,” he said.

And before every show he and the band have one tradition.

“We like to pray,” he said.

Knap has performed for some large audiences including during Sidney Fun Daze in July. He said that no matter the size of the crowd, he always has fun.

“Performing in front of people can be very fun,” He said. “Lots of different people reacting to the way you play and sing and a lot of people either enjoying or not paying attention but it’s still a great time.”
The St. Joseph-Ogden senior said his family has supported his musical endeavors.

“I have had nothing but great support from friends and family about my music career so far,” he said.

This included the years he spent just practicing his craft.

“It took me about four years to learn the guitar to the extent I am at,” he said. “A a year to be comfortable playing in front of audiences.”

Knap said while he has always been outgoing, it still took time to get comfortable performing.

“It took me about three shows to really become comfortable,” he said.

Knap said those attending his shows can expect a good experience.

“I like to involve every type of music,” he said. “ I like to play requests if I know them. People should feel free to interact with me and dance.”

Knap has a single available on Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube called “Shallow Heart.” More information can also be found at Owen Knap Music on Facebook.