Zach Top's Ryman Debut: A Night of True Country Magic
A real showman with the talent and spark to back it up, Zach Top has single-handedly taken it upon himself to bring country music back to its roots. With a sound steeped in traditional twang, honky-tonk energy, and an undeniable bluegrass spirit, he delivered a headlining debut at the historic Ryman Auditorium that had every pew shaking in approval.
From the moment Zach stepped onto the Mother Church stage, he commanded it with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. Opening with "Sounds Like The Radio," he set the tone for the evening—this wasn’t just a show; it was a revival. As the night unfolded, the setlist proved to be a masterclass in blending original material with well-loved classics, paying tribute to the legends who paved the way while proving he has the chops to stand among them.
The bluegrass section of the night, featuring "World Gone Wrong" and a stellar rendition of Ricky Skaggs' "Don't Cheat In Our Hometown," had the audience hootin', hollerin', and clappin’ along like it was a Saturday night at the Opry in the ‘50s. The passion and precision with which he and his band tackled these tunes left no doubt—Zach isn’t just nodding to tradition; he’s carrying the torch.
He had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand with covers of Keith Whitley's "Kentucky Bluebird" and Randy Travis' "If I Didn’t Have You," delivered with such rich, heartfelt conviction that they felt as if he had lived every lyric. And when he teamed up with opener Jake Worthington for "Murder on Music Row," it was a show-stopping, chill-inducing moment—a pointed reminder that real country music is still alive and well.
Yet, it wasn't just about nostalgia. Zach’s original material, from the foot-stomping "Beer for Breakfast" to the tender "Dirt Turns to Gold," showcased his ability to craft songs that sound like instant classics. "Ain’t That a Heartbreak" and "Cowboys Like Me Do" were proof that he’s nipping at the heels of country music’s elite, ready to carve his own legacy.
Credit Emily Quirk
The night wasn’t without its surprises. His take on The Commodores’ "Brick House" injected a bit of funky fun into the setlist, proving that Zach is just as comfortable stepping outside the traditional country sound when the moment calls for it. Likewise, his seamless transition into a soulful rendition of "Use Me" had the audience in awe, further highlighting his versatility as a performer.
And let’s talk about the band. The chemistry between Zach and his players was undeniable, with each musician shining in their moment. From the blazing fiddle solos to the steady thump of the bass, every note was played with passion and precision. The energy was electric, with the band feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm and vice versa, further cementing the night as one of pure country perfection.
By the time he closed with "Cold Beer & Country Music," the audience was on their feet, cheering for more. This wasn’t just another night at the Ryman—it was a declaration. Zach Top has arrived, and he’s here to stay.
If you’re spending money on a concert ticket this year, let it be for a Zach Top show. He’s the best ticket in town, delivering the kind of country music experience that feels both fresh and timeless. And if this performance was any indication, we’re all pleading for a live album to capture the magic of this unforgettable night.