Stan Keown is an Alabama native. He played first chair trombone in the Anniston High School band, which, at the time, was considered to be the premier high school concert and symphonic band in Alabama. Stan participated in many state competitions, and was an All-State musician. He initially pursued a career in music at Jacksonville State University (where he participated in the symphonic, marching and swing bands, as well as brass choir). However, after facing several "reality checks", Stan dropped music altogether and pursued other career objectives. He has since spent more than 35 years in the investigative field, in both the private and public sector.

After a musical hiatus of more than 30 years, Stan was persuaded to pick up his trombone, with the formation of a big band at his current workplace, Unum Provident. Participation in that band eventually led to his involvement with Sweet Georgia Sound. Stan has diligently worked to regain much of his former musical ability, and continues to strive for musical excellence. He now plays the "oversized" bass trombone, which requires considerable more stamina and effort than the tenor trombone.

Stan cites a number of well known trombonists and other instrumentalists as being influential. The most notable is the composer Henry Mancini. Stan had an early obsession with Mancini’s music going back to his TV recording days – such as "Mr. Lucky", "Peter Gunn," and other melodious and intricate pieces. Stan prefers more traditional big band music, as well as Hollywood and Broadway classics.

In addition to Sweet Georgia Sound Stan currently performs with the UPTown Big Band and with the Mason Dixieland Line and the Wurstbrats