Last updated by Molly Saxby on Wednesday 20th August 2025

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

Now one of the leading figures in contemporary country music, Zach Bryan continues to write from the heart. His future looks set to bring more albums, more tours, and even more influence on the genre. But at the centre of it all, he remains the same man who once recorded songs in his barracks with nothing but a guitar and a story to tell.

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