Zach Top Cements His Superstar Status with New Artist of the Year Win and “Guitar” Performance at 59th Annual CMA Awards

Zach Top just made his mark on country music history!

The 28-year-old singer-songwriter took home New Artist of the Year at the 59th Annual CMA Awards in Nashville on November 19, cementing his place as one of country’s brightest new stars.

Top’s acceptance was equal parts heartfelt and hilarious, opening with a nod to his signature laid-back style: “Thank you very, very much. I can’t remember if I was supposed to put my beer down first or not, but here it is now,” he told the crowd. Grateful for the honor, he continued, “I’m so thankful to be included in a category with a bunch of other great artists that have had phenomenal years. I’m thankful to be here.”

Before that, Top lit up the stage with his hit “Guitar,” delivering a performance that was equal parts showmanship and musical skill. Watching Top on stage, it’s clear he’s not just playing a song; he’s telling a story with every strum and chord change. There’s a playful confidence in his presence, as he winks at the audience, leans into the groove, and makes you feel like you’re part of the moment. It’s the kind of performance that makes you want to grab a beer, pick up a guitar, and sing along.

This win caps off an already landmark year for Top. He’s nominated for three Grammys at the upcoming 68th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best Traditional Country Album for Ain’t In It For My Health and Best Country Song for “I Never Lie.” His sophomore album, released this past August, debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Current Country Albums chart and racked up over 30 million streams globally in its first week.

Top’s rise has been rapid but rooted in authenticity. Growing up in Sunnyside, WA, on a family farm surrounded by classic country tunes, he started a band with his siblings at age seven. After years performing in bluegrass bands, he made the move to Nashville in 2021, quickly building a reputation for his electric performances and compelling storytelling.

He’s currently in the middle of his Cold Beer & Country Music Tour, taking fans from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas to stops across the U.K. and Europe next year. His breakout debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, has already earned over one billion streams and multiple RIAA certifications—including 2x Platinum for “I Never Lie.”

Reflecting on the journey, Top’s gratitude is clear: “It’s been a hell of a last couple years. So, so thankful and ready to celebrate all night.”

With a CMA win in the bag, Grammy nods, chart-topping albums, and electrifying live shows, Zach Top isn’t just the future of country music. He’s making that future happen, one guitar riff at a time.

You can watch Zach’s performance of “Guitar” at the CMA Awards below and let us know if you loved it by leaving a reaction at the bottom of the post or by sliding into our DMs on Instagram at @celebsecretscountry.

For more coverage from the 59th Annual CMA Awards, click here.