Social media campaign to keep Jackson Owens in US

Turangi teenage singing sensation Jackson Owens has become the subject of a social media campaign aimed at keeping his music career in the United States on track.

Relative Aaron Moeke - breakfast host at Tuwharetoa FM - said although Jackson's American boy band Far Young was still in its birthing stage it was getting "really, really good reviews" .

He said Jackson was the lead singer and needed heaps of support from fans to make a strong case to keep him in America after his 90-day entry permit ran out.

"It's an opportunity of a lifetime and Jackson has become a pivotal part of the group."

Mr Moeke said the social media "We Want Jackson" campaign started by supporters in America was gaining momentum and he urged people to add their support to the cause.

"We need to create as much buzz about Jackson as possible."

The 16-year-old headed to Orlando, Florida, with his father Bobby Owens in early March to join the new boy band after being discovered by Grammy winning producer Tim Coons, the man behind the Back Street Boys.

Since the new group was launched, Jackson and his two fellow band members have had a busy programme including performances at concerts in Los Angeles, Cincinnati and Hollywood; and numerous radio and television interviews.

Mr Moeke said according to Jackson's father, Jackson was loving the experience and was grateful for the opportunity. It is understood Jackson's mother Sharne Owens flew to Los Angeles this week to join her husband and son.

Mr Moeke said the whole family were musical and Jackson's younger sister Georgia was just as talented as her brother.

He said the focus now was on making sure Jackson could remain in the United States.

A YouTube video put together by two American teenagers encourages people to support the We Want Jackson campaign using various social media .