Cold Beer & Country Music

Emerging from the Pacific Northwest, Zach Top has swiftly positioned himself as a torchbearer for traditional country music. With his debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, released on April 5, 2024, via the independent label Leo33, Top delivers a refreshing homage to the neo-traditionalist sounds of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. His authentic approach, characterized by heartfelt storytelling and classic instrumentation, resonates with both longtime country aficionados and new listeners seeking genuine artistry.

Hailing from Sunnyside, Washington, Zach Top’s musical journey began in the rich soils of bluegrass. His formative years were steeped in the traditions of Americana, drawing inspiration from legends like George Strait, Keith Whitley, and Randy Travis. This foundation in bluegrass not only honed his instrumental prowess but also instilled in him a deep appreciation for the storytelling essence of country music.

In 2023, Top made a pivotal shift from bluegrass to country music, aligning with the newly established Nashville-based label, Leo33. Founded by industry veterans Katie Dean and Rachel Fontenot, Leo33 recognized Top’s potential to bridge the gap between classic country traditions and contemporary sensibilities. As their flagship artist, Top embarked on crafting an album that would both honor the genre’s roots and introduce his unique voice to a broader audience.

Cold Beer & Country Music stands as a testament to Top’s dedication to authenticity. Produced by Carson Chamberlain, the album comprises 12 tracks co-written by Top, reflecting a five-year journey of songwriting and artistic development. Recorded at Sound Stage Studios in Nashville, the album features a blend of honky-tonk rhythms, steel guitars, and heartfelt ballads. Notable tracks include:

• “Sounds Like the Radio”: An ode to classic country airwaves, this track captures the nostalgia of yesteryears.

• “I Never Lie”: A poignant ballad that gained viral traction on social media platforms, showcasing Top’s emotive vocal delivery.

• “Cowboys Like Me Do” and “Use Me”: Songs that delve into themes of love, loss, and resilience, echoing the depth of traditional country narratives.

The album’s authenticity is further accentuated by its minimalist production, allowing Top’s vocals and storytelling to take center stage.

Upon its release, Cold Beer & Country Music garnered widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Holler magazine awarded the album a 9.5 out of 10, praising its representation of Top’s rural upbringing and artistic range. Roughstock highlighted Top’s genuine approach to ‘90s country, drawing favorable comparisons to icons like Randy Travis and Joe Diffie.

Commercially, the album debuted at number 49 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and later peaked at number 4. It also reached number 31 on the all-genre Billboard 200, underscoring its broad appeal. The lead single, “Sounds Like the Radio,” achieved a top 20 position on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, while “I Never Lie” marked Top’s first entry on the Billboard Hot 100.

To support the album, Top embarked on the “Cold Beer & Country Music Tour” in early 2025, performing across major U.S. cities. His live shows, characterized by energetic performances and genuine audience engagement, further solidified his reputation as a compelling live act. Notably, his appearance at RodeoHouston attracted a crowd of over 70,000, marking the largest show of his career to date.

Zach Top’s emergence signals a resurgence of traditional country music in the modern era. His commitment to the genre’s core values—authentic storytelling, emotive vocals, and classic instrumentation—offers a refreshing alternative in today’s musical landscape. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Top remains dedicated to crafting music that honors the past while forging a path forward.