Breakout Artist Zach Top Talks Debut Album 'Cold Beer & Country Music'

'Cold Beer & Country Music' will become available to fans on Friday, April 5. 

by Tiffany Goldstein - Apr 04 2024
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Zach Top emerges as a dynamic force reshaping modern country music with his upcoming debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music. Through a blend of country melodies and raw emotion, his journey from small-town dreamer to stage-sharing sensation with icons like Dirks Bentley epitomizes passion and dedication in pursuing musical greatness.

Top's roots in music run deep. He was influenced by the sounds of legends like George Strait, Marty Robbins, and Keith Whitley. From strumming guitar in his family's bluegrass band to finding his voice as a solo artist, his love for country music ignited early and burned brightly.

"I fell in love with it so early on. My folks always had George Strait playing in the house, and I listened to a bunch of Marty Robbins songs growing up as well," Top told Fandom Daily. "I started playing guitar when I was five. I guess I never got tired of hearing country music. I found Keith Whitley, and he became my biggest influence." 

The road to Cold Beer & Country Music has been a long one, as he spent five years writing and recording alongside producer Carson Chamberlain

"It seems like a pipe dream, and it caught us all a little bit by surprise," he said about his rapid success thus far in the industry. "I want to do this forever. We've been writing for this thing [his debut album] for five years now. I got hooked up with my producer, Carson Chamberlain. He was kind of the first one that brought me to town. The first guy that made me feel legitimate, like I actually had a shot. I give a lot of credit to him because he took me under his wing and showed me the ropes of the whole music business." 

When Top recognized that Chamberlain became not just a collaborator but a mentor, he had to pinch himself. Chamberlain is a highly successful songsmith and producer on Music Row. He is known for his versatility, which allows him to work across various sub-genres within country music, further expanding his appeal and cementing his place as a prominent figure in the industry. Some of the artists he has worked with include Strait, Alan Jackson, Mark Wills, Tracy Byrd, Billy Currington, and Whitley. 

"It was a big full circle moment. Keith Whitley was probably my favorite singer ever, and Carson was his band leader. So, I couldn't think of anybody better in town to work with. I'm so thankful, and it's really been a very cool partnership." 

The two joined forces to curate a 12-track collection that fuses traditional elements and spotlights Top's unique twang. His buttery baritone vocals and imagery-heavy lyrics are destined to resonate with listeners. Not only does the project display Top's undeniable talents, but it promises to take listeners on a journey through the highs and lows of life. His latest release "Use Me" and chart-topping debut single, "Sounds Like The Radio," gave fans a taste of what to expect and foreshadows his future in the industry – an authentic troubadour with superstar potential. 

"Sonically, it's just so different from whatever else is going on right now," he said, comparing his record to other music on the radio. "I sit down and try to write something with my guitar. I'm not trying to contrive or manufacture something as an act. What comes out, that's who I am. I am pouring out my heart and my mind through these songs." 

Yet, beyond the music, Top's commitment lies in connecting with his fans. Actively engaging with his audience and valuing their feedback, he sees his fans as an integral part of his journey.

"One of my favorite things about country music is there's something in it for everybody," stressed the newcomer. "You don't need to be a country-type person. There are just universal stories in this genre. I feel like the greatest country songs make people feel understood. That's the thing I hope fans get out of this when they listen to the album—from heartbreak to happiness, to just a little bit of everything." 

Top says he looks forward to sharing his highly anticipated album live and connecting with his devoted audience. In honor of his new project, he is scheduled to play a special album release show at Nashville's historic Exit/In on Thursday, April 4. 

"I think one of my biggest goals is to get people out to shows and experience this music live," said Top. "I think that's the purest way you can experience music – a good live band, playing good songs. I want to make sure the fans are staying engaged, and they feel like they know me. I hope they keep falling in love with these songs that I put out." 

The up-and-coming vocalist is slated to open for Dirks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Lainey Wilson, and Luke Bryan on their respective 2024 tours. With his debut album on the horizon and a summer tour alongside hitmakers – Top is poised to captivate audiences across the nation, leaving an indelible mark on the genre's landscape.

 

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