Texas country legend Wade Bowen joins Let’s Talk Local host Sarah Zubiate Bennett for a heartfelt conversation from the State Fair of Texas, reflecting on his decades-long career, songwriting roots, and the generosity that’s fueled his Bowen Family Foundation, which has raised over $8 million for children and families across the Lone Star State.
From his early days playing in West 84 at Texas Tech to headlining venues like Billy Bob’s, Gruene Hall, and Whitewater Amphitheater, Bowen shares stories of family influence, inspiration, and staying true to Texas music. “I grew up in a music family,” he says. “There was music on in the house nonstop.”
Bowen opens up about writing from the heart — “I write when inspiration hits” — and explains how his foundation’s success has become one of the most rewarding parts of his journey. “It’s not a BS thing,” he says. “It’s legit, fun, and very rewarding. It’s a huge part of who I am.”
The episode also features Sarah’s kids as the ultimate food critics, taking on the fair’s wildest bites — from Brisket & Brew Stuffed Pretzels to Deep-Fried Brownies and Wagyu Bacon Cheeseburger Deviled Egg Sliders — rating each one in hilarious, unfiltered fashion.
🎶 Come for the music, stay for the laughs, and see which fair foods are Big Tex hits — and which are total misses.