Nashville, TN – The country music landscape is buzzing with the release of Zach Top’s much-anticipated sophomore album, “Ain’t In It For My Health,” available today, August 29, 2025, via Leo33. This 15-track collection further solidifies the Sunnyside, Washington native’s position as a leading force in the resurgence of neo-traditional country music, following a year marked by significant career milestones and widespread critical acclaim.
A Breakout Year for a Rising Star
Zach Top’s journey over the past year has been nothing short of meteoric. The singer-songwriter recently achieved his first number one hit at country radio with “I Never Lie,” a testament to his authentic sound and growing fanbase. This monumental achievement was quickly followed by the prestigious honor of being named the 2025 ACM New Male Artist of the Year. The award ceremony surprise, revealed via a video from country legends Brooks & Dunn, underscored the industry’s recognition of Top’s burgeoning talent and impact on the country music scene. His momentum has also been acknowledged by major publications, including features in Variety’s 2025 Young Hollywood Impact Report, where he was hailed as “the fastest-rising star in country music,” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” where he delivered a memorable live performance of “I Never Lie.”
‘Ain’t In It For My Health’: A Blend of Tradition and Modern Appeal
“Ain’t In It For My Health” arrives as the follow-up to Top’s breakthrough debut album, “Cold Beer & Country Music.” Produced by Carson Chamberlain, known for his work with industry titans like Billy Currington and Easton Corbin, the new album continues to explore the sounds that have defined Top’s appeal: a deep respect for 90s country, blended with elements of bluegrass and a smooth, authentic vocal delivery. Critics have already lauded early singles from the album, with “Good Times & Tan Lines” earning praise from the Los Angeles Times as one of the best songs of 2025, described as “as crisp as country music gets.” The single “South of Sanity” has also garnered attention, with Rolling Stone calling it “a slice of slick and satisfying Eighties balladry” and Billboard noting its contribution to Top’s “top-shelf catalog of songs.”
Roots and Influences: Honoring the Masters
Raised on a ranch in Sunnyside, Washington, Zach Top’s musical upbringing was steeped in the classics. His parents instilled in him a love for legends like George Strait and Marty Robbins, whose music provided the soundtrack to his early life. Starting a family band, “Top String,” at the age of seven, laid the foundation for his musical ambitions. This early exposure to traditional country and bluegrass music continues to inform his sound today. Top has often cited artists like Keith Whitley and Randy Travis as major influences, and his commitment to preserving the heart of country music while making it relevant for a new generation has been a hallmark of his career. His move to Nashville in 2021 marked a pivotal point, leading to a publishing deal and eventually signing with the independent label Leo33, where he serves as a flagship artist.
“Cold Beer & Country Music” Tour Continues to Sell Out
In celebration of his new album and ongoing success, Zach Top is currently on his “Cold Beer & Country Music” tour, which has seen widespread demand, with many dates selling out rapidly. The tour, named after his critically acclaimed debut, has been extended with additional dates across North America, including stops at iconic venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Top is also supporting Dierks Bentley on his “Broken Branches Tour” and has upcoming performances with Alan Jackson, further cementing his status as a must-see live act in the country music industry. The energy and connection Top fosters with his audience have led to comparisons to the explosive popularity of the Savannah Bananas, highlighting the significant fan engagement surrounding his shows.
Industry Recognition and Future Trajectory
Zach Top’s rapid ascent has not gone unnoticed by the music industry. His ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with a polished, neo-traditional sound has earned him a reputation as “the future of country music,” as stated by Billboard. With “Ain’t In It For My Health,” Top is poised to reach new heights, offering a collection of songs that are both deeply rooted in country music tradition and dynamically contemporary. The album’s release signifies not just a new chapter for the artist, but a significant moment for the genre itself, as Zach Top continues to lead the charge in bringing authentic, classic country sounds back to the forefront of mainstream music news and popular culture.
The album “Ain’t In It For My Health” is now available on all major streaming platforms and for purchase.
