In a contemporary music landscape where country music is constantly evolving, Zach Top stands out by channeling the timeless essence of 90s country legends. For fans wondering, How Old Is Zach Top?, this rising star is currently making waves in the music scene at a young age, bringing a refreshing traditional sound to a new generation. While the original article mentions he was 24 years old at the time of writing, let’s delve deeper into the journey of this artist who is reviving the spirit of classic country.
Zach Top’s music resonates with the vibes of George Strait, Keith Whitley, and Randy Travis, evoking images of Texas dance halls, rodeo excitement, and heartfelt jukebox ballads. For Zach, old school country is not just a genre; it’s a way of life. Growing up on a ranch in Washington State, his early exposure to Marty Robbins’ Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs during daily livestock feeding instilled in him a deep appreciation for storytelling in music. This early immersion in classic sounds laid the foundation for his musical journey.
His passion for music manifested early. At the age of seven, Zach formed a bluegrass band with his siblings, showcasing his innate musical talent from a young age. This early experience in bluegrass honed his instrumental skills and performance abilities. Later, he broadened his horizons, joining Seattle-based band North Country and subsequently becoming a member of Modern Tradition. Notably, Modern Tradition achieved significant recognition by winning the prestigious 2017 SPBGMA International Band Competition, further solidifying Zach’s credentials as a serious musician on the rise.
Driven by his honky-tonk dreams, Zach Top eventually made the pivotal move to Nashville, the heart of country music. His single “Like It Ain’t No Thing” under RBR Entertainment quickly climbed to the #1 spot on the Bluegrass Today chart. This success underscored his ability to connect with audiences through his traditional sound and compelling storytelling. His skills as both an instrumentalist and a storyteller earned him not just critical acclaim but also a career-defining publishing deal with Bob Doyle’s Major Bob Music. This partnership placed him alongside the songwriters behind the hits of his country music heroes, providing invaluable mentorship and collaboration opportunities.
Reflecting on his journey, Zach shares, “I feel like I got a lifetime of on-the-job training, just listening day-in, day-out to how this music was crafted. Then, I ‘graduated’ to Nashville and became a sort of understudy to guys who turned ‘ranch songs’ into radio hits. Now, I can’t consider a song done until it’s something I think King George would cut. No pressure…” he adds with a touch of humor, highlighting his dedication to upholding the standards of traditional country music. This quote emphasizes his deep respect for the genre’s icons and his commitment to creating music that honors their legacy.
Zach Top’s dedication to crafting “instant classics” positions him as a leading figure in the next generation of country artists who are keeping the traditional sound alive. His single, “Cold Beer & Country Music,” exemplifies this commitment. It’s described as “100 Proof,” kicking off with a Telecaster riff and quickly building into a rowdy celebration of simple escapes, enhanced by pedal steel.
Recounting the song’s creation, Zach explains, “Carson called and said he had a song idea we needed to write asap, so we got together and this song basically wrote itself. There’s nothing more straightforward than getting off work thinking ‘give me two rounds and crank it up so I can be done with this day! We didn’t do it purposely, but we ended up with a Haggard, ‘I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink’ vibe. You can almost see the dimly-lit, beat-up old bar, smoke swirling around this guy’s head, as he sips his beer as he zones out to the jukebox…” This vivid description paints a picture of the song’s classic country themes and atmosphere.
The recording of “Cold Beer & Country Music” at Nashville’s Soundstage Studio further underscores Zach Top’s rising stature. He collaborated with A-list musicians including Brent Mason on Telecaster, Andy Leftwich on fiddle, and Scotty Sanders on pedal steel, among other notable talents. These collaborations highlight the respect he has garnered within the Nashville music community.
As Zach Top’s career gains momentum, he is receiving attention from key figures in country music. His Grand Ole Opry debut on July 27, 2022, marked a significant milestone, signaling his arrival onto country music’s biggest stage. Moreover, his songwriting talent is evident through his impressive five song credits on Joshua Hedley’s album, Neon Blue. He has also collaborated with acclaimed songwriters and producers such as Carson Chamberlain, Paul Overstreet, and Tim Nichols, further solidifying his position as a respected and sought-after artist in Nashville.
In conclusion, while the exact current age of Zach Top may evolve, his impact on the country music scene is undeniable. He is more than just a young artist; he is a torchbearer of traditional country music, captivating audiences with his authentic sound and commitment to the genre’s roots. As he continues to create and perform, Zach Top is poised to become a leading voice in country music for years to come, ensuring that the classic sounds he loves remain vibrant and relevant.
