The Academy of Country Music Awards held on May 8 showcased a dazzling array of talent in the country music industry at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas. This year’s event highlighted both seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, including Zach Top, who was honored as the 2025 New Male Artist of the Year.
Zach Top captured the audience with a heartfelt solo performance of his fan-favorite track “Use Me,” standing out among the night’s performers by foregoing the house band for an acoustic rendition. Having released his debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, in 2024, Top demonstrates a level of artistry that feels much more established, drawing deeply from the rich traditions of country music.
“Use Me” serves as an impactful entry into the genre’s repertoire of storytelling, especially in the realm of cheating songs, a category that has seen a decline in popularity. Instead of romanticizing infidelity, Top’s rendition sheds light on the emotional turmoil and vulnerability faced by the characters involved. The track reinforces his connection to traditional country themes, a sentiment echoed by the success of his previous singles, “Sounds Like the Radio” and “I Never Lie.” Both tracks resonated well with fans, paving the way for the newer hits “Bad Luck” and “Use Me,” which both reached the Hot Country Songs chart.
Tonight’s ACM Awards performance not only highlights Zach Top’s exceptional talent but also heralds a promising future for country music, indicating a return to its roots with a contemporary twist. This trend reflects a growing appreciation among fans for authentic storytelling and traditional melodies, suggesting that the genre is evolving while staying true to its core.