"Rocky Top" was first written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1967 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Since then, the song has been covered by everyone in country, from the Osborne Brothers to Dolly Parton. A new rendition of the song never fails to get crowds excited. This week, Zach Top did a cover of the classic at his recent show, reminding us all why "Rocky Top" has stood the test of time.
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At the Thompson-Boling Arena, to thousands of Vols fans, Top sang the song that's been tradition since 1972. In a game against Alabama, the song made its debut, and it has been performed by the Pride of the Southland Band at the University of Tennessee for years.
After the marching game rendition became popularized, it didn't take long for "Rocky Top" to reach state song status. Even in viral videos on the internet, the passion amongst Tenneseans in Top's crowd can be heard from the nosebleeds.
Zach Top Likes To 'Stretch the Truth' To Make His Songs More Universal
Zach Top, who was born and raised in Sunnyside, Washington, fell in love with music from a young age. After taking inspiration from artists like George Strait, he formed a bluegrass band with his siblings called Topstring. It was with them that he traveled for years before ever pursuing a solo career.
Now, following TikTok virality and a move to Nashville, Top is nominated for five CMAs. This makes him the male artist with the most nominations this year. He sits next to Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, and Megan Moroney, who are all tied at six nominations.
His debut album, Cold Beer and Country Music, which is nominated for Album of the Year, is the project he's currently touring for. At shows like the one in Knoxville, Top has been offering fans $25 same-day tickets at the box office, so that those who can't afford the original ticket prices have a chance to go.
Although he's been writing for years, Zach Top says that much of his music is a little exaggerated. "If I just wrote songs about my life, my life's pretty boring... But if we stretch the truth a little bit, it comes from somewhere, honest, and then kind of make a story that's universal out of it." It's the universality of his songs that appeals to so many fans, which is why he can pull off covers like "Rocky Top" so seamlessly.
Fans can see Zach Top perform on tour at upcoming shows in Alabama, Kentucky, and Indiana. They can also see him compete for the CMAs on November 19, 2025 live on ABC.
Photo By: Getty / Jason Kempin
