Knoxville, TN – Country music’s rising star, Zach Top, delivered a performance that sent the Thompson-Boling Arena, now known as the Food City Center, into a frenzy on Thursday, October 9, 2025. During his concert, the Washington native surprised and electrified the crowd of Tennessee Vols fans by launching into an energetic rendition of “Rocky Top,” the beloved unofficial anthem of the University of Tennessee. The spontaneous moment quickly went viral across social media platforms, capturing the passionate energy of the Vols faithful and solidifying Top’s status as one of the most talked-about new artists in country music.
From Washington Ranch to Nashville Stage
Zachary Dirk Top, born September 26, 1997, grew up on a ranch in Sunnyside, Washington, where his musical journey began early. He first honed his skills in a family bluegrass band called Top String with his siblings, performing at local festivals. While he briefly pursued a degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, his true passion for music led him to drop out after just one year to dedicate himself to a career in country and bluegrass.
Relocating to Nashville in 2021, Top initially released bluegrass singles before pivoting to country music. His signing with the independent record label Leo33 in September 2023 marked a significant step in his career. His debut single to country radio, “Sounds Like the Radio,” released in January 2024, became the most-added song of the week and charted successfully. This was followed by his critically acclaimed debut album, “Cold Beer & Country Music,” in April 2024, which garnered spots on “Best of 2024” lists from publications like Rolling Stone and Billboard. His second studio album, “Ain’t In It for My Health,” arrived in August 2025, further cementing his place in the music scene. Widely recognized for reviving the spirit of 90s traditional country music, Top has earned accolades such as the 2025 ACM New Male Artist of the Year award.
The Enduring Power of “Rocky Top”
The song “Rocky Top,” penned by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1967, has evolved from a bluegrass tune about the simple life in Tennessee to an indispensable symbol for the University of Tennessee Volunteers. First adopted by the university’s marching band in 1972, it quickly became the unofficial fight song, igniting passion and pride at sporting events, particularly football games held at Neyland Stadium. The infectious melody and celebratory lyrics make it a powerful unifying force for fans, creating an electric atmosphere that is synonymous with Vol Nation.
A Viral Night in Knoxville
During his headlining “Cold Beer & Country Music” tour stop in Knoxville on October 9, 2025, Zach Top tapped directly into this deep-seated fan enthusiasm. The decision to perform “Rocky Top” was met with an explosive reaction from the packed arena. Videos of the performance show fans singing along with immense fervor, highlighting the powerful connection between the artist, the song, and the devoted fanbase. This viral moment underscores not only Top’s rising popularity as a music artist but also his ability to engage with local traditions and create memorable events for his audience. The trending nature of the performance has amplified his reach, introducing his music to a wider audience through the shared excitement of this unique concert experience.
Zach Top’s unexpected and spirited performance of “Rocky Top” served as a powerful reminder of how music can connect artists with their audience on a deeply personal and communal level, creating viral moments that resonate far beyond the venue walls. As he continues to release new music and tour, this Knoxville event stands out as a testament to his growing impact on the country music landscape and his knack for creating unforgettable live music events.
