Zach Top: Modern Country Music Lacks ‘Soul’
Rising country artist Zach Top has voiced a strong opinion on the current state of mainstream country music, suggesting that its pursuit of polished perfection has led to a loss of genuine “soul.” The 28-year-old singer, known for his traditional honky-tonk sound, shared his perspective in a recent interview, drawing a parallel between the popularity of his own music and the resurgence of bluegrass.
The Quest for Authenticity
Top believes that contemporary country music often sounds “perfect,” with every element meticulously placed and tuned. “Everything is really perfect and everything’s tuned. Everything’s pocketed just right,” he explained. “I think some of the soul got left behind in that.” He posits that listeners are increasingly seeking music that feels more “raw and real,” a quality he finds abundant in bluegrass. “When you’re playing bluegrass, there’s nothing covering you up,” Top stated. “You better be a bada– on your instrument and a bada– singer.”
He pointed to artists like Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan as examples of musicians who have embraced this “very real and raw” sound and achieved significant success. “You’re not trying to chase perfection,” Top elaborated. “You’re trying to just play good music and put your heart and soul into it. People enjoy that. And that’s what bluegrass has always been to me.” This emphasis on heartfelt performance over technical flawlessness resonates with audiences, he feels.
A Traditionalist’s Rise
Zach Top has emerged as a notable figure in the revival of traditional country music. His musical journey began with bluegrass, a genre that instilled in him a deep appreciation for authentic performance. He released his debut EP in 2022, the same year he made a significant milestone with his performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
His career gained substantial momentum in 2024 with the release of his first full-length album, “Cold Beer & Country Music.” The following year, 2025, proved to be even more successful, marked by the release of his second album, “Ain’t In It for My Health,” and critical acclaim, including wins for ACM New Male Artist of the Year and CMA New Artist of the Year.
Reflecting on his awards, Top humorously downplayed elaborate celebration plans, mentioning backstage at the CMAs, “I brought a beer up on stage, read between the lines, you know.” He added, “My road crew and my band are here with me. We’re gonna go find someplace and knock a few beers back. I’ll probably call my family at some point… outside of that, I just hope I can get to bed before 5 AM, I suppose.”
New Music on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Top is preparing to release new material. His latest single, “Good Girls & Cowgirls,” is slated for an August 21st release, accompanied by another new track, “Other Side of Hurtin’.” While a release date for his anticipated third album has not yet been finalized, Top expressed optimism that it will arrive sometime next spring.
Describing “Good Girls & Cowgirls,” Top characterized it as a “goofy, fun song” that explores the contrast between a “good girl” persona and a more adventurous side of women. “I think folks will enjoy it,” he commented. “The plan is for it to be on the new record. That’s next spring.” The album is expected to feature these new songs, offering fans more of the raw, heartfelt country music he champions.
