As country music fans reflected on a standout year for the genre, few artists had as impactful a 2024 as Zach Top. The rising star, known for his throwback sound, sharp songwriting, and timeless voice, capped off the year with a memorable performance at New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash.
Top took the stage in front of a crowd of excited fans, many of whom were enjoying a cold beer in hand, to deliver a dose of classic country with his boot-stomping rendition of “Sounds Like the Radio.” His performance was a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal and proved that country music is in good hands with Top leading the charge.
One of the standout tracks in Top’s breakout year was “I Never Lie.” Initially not intended as a single, the song went viral on TikTok, sparking massive fan demand. The track quickly climbed the charts, landing at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and No. 24 on Country Airplay. It also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 58—Top’s first appearance on the all-genre survey.
“I think people have had an appetite for my kind of country for a while,” Top told Billboard. “We’re getting a dose of it now.” Reflecting on the success of “I Never Lie,” he added, “It’s probably the countriest song on the album. There’s nothing but steel guitar on there—you haven’t heard a song like that, sonically, in a long time.”
The success of “I Never Lie” is a testament to Top’s ability to stand out in a crowded music landscape. While upbeat tracks like “Sounds Like the Radio” and “Cold Beer & Country Music” are expected hits, “I Never Lie” challenges current trends with its throwback, steel guitar-driven sound.
With the release of his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music and his viral success, Top has already shared new music, leaving fans eager for what’s to come in the months ahead. If 2024 was any indication, 2025 promises even bigger things for this traditional country standout.
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