While spending a few years in country music, 2024 marked a major milestone for Zach Top. Back in April, the country singer released his debut studio album Cold Beer & Country Music. Among the album, the singer recorded songs like “Sounds Like the Radio”, “There’s the Sun”, and “Cowboys Like Me Do.” Although watching his career expand over the last twelve months, the singer decided to do away with the stage and crowds to give a simplistic performance of his hit song “Hard Candy Christmas”—an original spin on the Dolly Parton classic.
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Back in 2023, Top wanted to spread a little holiday cheer when he released the song “Hard Candy Christmas.” Showcasing his talents with a guitar and the power in his voice, the singer produced a flawless performance.
Fans gushed over the performance from Top as comments praised the singer for keeping classic country alive. “Just goes to show that we do still have some ‘REAL’ country music artists in this life. VERY WELL DONE. You are a dying breed !!” Another comment included, “Wow, just wow! You just sang a song most people can’t hope to sing properly. Fine job and you have solid command of your voice. I really enjoyed your music here.” The love for Top’s performance continued, with another listener claiming “Just when I thought I couldn’t love this song any more!”
Zach Top Shares His Country Music Influences
While gaining praise from fans, Top’s love for country music started at a young age thanks to his parents. Once speaking about his past, the country star admitted, “My parents had a lot of great Marty Robbins music playing around the house. My dad worked in the livestock industry. So, I got to play cowboy a little bit growing up and listen to music that went along with sort of the cowboy way of life.”
Although getting a chance to learn about the life of a cowboy, Top never considered himself to be one. “I would by no means call myself a cowboy, but I think I wanted to be one. That was probably the first thing that drew me to that music, and I think that bug bit me and never let me go. I just ate up that music as long as I can remember.”
As for Top’s own musical influences, he pointed to none other than Keith Whitley and George Jones. “Keith Whitley was probably the biggest influence on my singing…him and Merle Haggard and George Jones. I was always drawn to the way those guys sang and that country style of turning the phrase and throwing a little lick on something. I love that!”
(Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Stagecoach)
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