Last updated by Fergus Sherwood on the 9th of January 2026

Zach Bryan’s rise in country music is unlike most artists of his generation. Before stepping on stage in sold-out arenas, he was serving in the United States Navy and writing songs in his free time. His story is one of resilience, loss, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of honest songwriting.

Early life and roots

Born in Okinawa, Japan, in 1996 while his father was stationed overseas with the Navy, Bryan grew up in Oologah, Oklahoma. His upbringing was modest, surrounded by the values of small-town America and the traditions of country music.

Music was always part of his life, but it wasn’t until his teenage years that he began teaching himself guitar and writing lyrics. Deeply personal experiences, particularly the passing of his mother, shaped his perspective and became a recurring influence in his songs.

Life in the Navy

Following in his family’s footsteps, Bryan enlisted in the US Navy at just 17 years old. Military service instilled discipline and structure, but music remained his escape. He began recording songs in his barracks, using simple equipment and sharing them on YouTube.

What began as a private outlet quickly gained traction. Videos like “Heading South” captured attention for their authenticity and raw emotion, attracting thousands of listeners online — all while Bryan continued his duties in uniform.

The turning point

The real turning point came when his independently released debut album, DeAnn (2019), dedicated to his late mother, spread through word of mouth. The stripped-back production and heartfelt lyrics resonated with fans searching for something real in an industry often driven by polish and spectacle.

By the time he released Elisabeth in 2020, Bryan had built a reputation as a songwriter who spoke directly to his audience, not around them. His Navy career and music collided, but in 2021, he received an honourable discharge — giving him the freedom to pursue music full-time.

Rising to fame

Zach Bryan’s breakthrough moment came with American Heartbreak (2022), a triple album that showcased the breadth of his songwriting. Featuring tracks such as Something in the Orange, it introduced him to a global audience and earned both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Unlike many chart-topping stars, Bryan’s fame has been rooted in his ability to remain authentic. Fans are drawn to his refusal to conform to industry norms — whether in how he records, releases, or performs his music.

A voice for a generation

Bryan’s story is about more than just music. It’s about carrying the weight of personal loss, balancing duty and passion, and ultimately finding a way to turn his experiences into art that resonates with millions.

From Navy veteran to country star, his journey has inspired countless fans who see in him a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs.

What’s next for Zach Bryan

Zach Bryan’s rise from home-recorded ballads to global stages has reached a powerful new milestone. In 2026, he released his sixth studio album, With Heaven on Top — a moving collection that reinforces his reputation as one of the most authentic and emotionally resonant voices in modern music. The album features a mix of intimate new material and crowd-ready anthems, with songs that capture raw vulnerability and soul-stirring storytelling.

To celebrate the release, Bryan is heading out on his biggest tour to date. With Heaven On Tour 2026 will bring him to UK stadiums for the first time, with huge summer shows at Edinburgh’s Murrayfield Stadium on 14 June, and London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 16 & 17 June. Known for his electrifying live sets and deep connection with fans, these performances promise a powerful mix of new tracks and beloved hits like ‘Something in the Orange’.

Tickets for the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium shows are on sale now — and for the ultimate concert experience, you can secure official VIP tickets and hospitality packages through Seat Unique. Enjoy premium seating, exclusive lounge access, and luxury perks as you witness one of country music’s most compelling artists live in 2026.

Buy VIP Tickets for Zach Bryan at Tottenham Stadium!