Zach Bryan has rapidly become one of the most compelling voices in modern indie folk and new country music. Known for his deeply personal storytelling, emotionally charged lyrics, and stripped-down acoustic sound, Bryan has captured the hearts of fans looking for authentic, heartfelt music. His blend of country roots with indie folk fantasy offers a refreshing contrast to the polished pop country dominating much of the mainstream today.
For fans of Zach Bryan, who appreciate his honest and raw style, there is a rich and diverse community of indie folk artists and new country musicians that offer similar emotional depth and acoustic-driven music. These artists, much like Bryan, are carving out a unique space in the music world by blending folk traditions with modern influences. Below, we'll explore several artists similar to Zach Bryan as you look forward to listening to some of the best indie folk and new country music songs.
8 Artists Similar to Zach Bryan
1. Logan Ransley
Logan Ransley is a name that needs no further introduction when it comes to country, indie, and folk music. He is simply one of the best artists similar to Zach Bryan due to his capability and versatility across different genres of music. Since coming to the limelight, he has released several popular songs including Expectation, Crossroads, and Son, among others.
If you're a fan of Zach Bryan, you should definitely check out Logan Ransley's piece of songwriting masterpiece. Much like Zach Bryan, Logan Ransley brings a lot of heartfelt emotions to his songs that make them resonate deeply with his fans.
2. Tyler Childers
One of the most frequently mentioned artists similar to Zach Bryan is Tyler Childers. Hailing from Kentucky, Childers has been making waves in both the indie folk and new country music scenes. His music is deeply rooted in Appalachian traditions, with a sound that blends bluegrass, folk, and country. Childers’ ability to tell deeply personal stories through his music, much like Bryan, resonates with listeners who seek authenticity in their music.
Tyler Childers' 2017 album, Purgatory, produced by Sturgill Simpson, is considered a modern classic in the indie folk-country genre. Songs like "Feathered Indians" and "Lady May" showcase his ability to paint vivid pictures of love, loss, and the human experience. His gravelly voice and poetic lyricism give his music a timeless quality, evoking the spirit of old-time country while still feeling fresh and relevant to today’s audience.
3. Caamp
For fans of Zach Bryan who are drawn to his acoustic-driven sound and remarkable songwriting, Caamp is a band worth exploring. This Ohio-based indie folk trio has been making waves in recent years with their warm, folky melodies and introspective lyrics. Caamp’s music, much like Bryan’s, feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, touching on themes of nature, love, and self-reflection.
Their 2019 album, By and By, brought them widespread recognition, with songs like "Peach Fuzz" and "Vagabond" gaining popularity among fans of folk and indie rock alike. Caamp’s simple, acoustic-driven sound is complemented by frontman Taylor Meier's soulful vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels much like the connection Zach Bryan builds with his listeners.
4. Colter Wall
For those who appreciate Zach Bryan’s stripped-down, acoustic style and his focus on honest storytelling, Colter Wall is another artist to explore. Wall is deeply rooted in the traditions of old-school country and Western music, but with a modern twist that gives it a fresh appeal. His deep, gravelly voice immediately sets him apart, lending a sense of authenticity and timelessness to his songs.
Colter Wall’s albums, including Songs of the Plains and Western Swing & Waltzes and Other Punchy Songs, transport listeners to a simpler time, with songs that often tell stories of life on the open range, cowboys, and the rugged landscapes of the American West. Like Zach Bryan, Wall’s music feels raw and unpolished, focusing on acoustic instrumentation and storytelling.
5. Ruston Kelly
Ruston Kelly is another indie folk and new country artist who shares a similar emotional depth and honesty with Zach Bryan. Kelly’s music often explores themes of addiction, heartbreak, and redemption, making it deeply relatable for listeners who connect with Bryan’s introspective lyrics. His 2018 album Dying Star is a standout in the indie country scene, filled with songs that explore the struggles of life and the journey toward healing.
6. Mike and the Moonpies
If you’re a fan of Zach Bryan’s softer, more melodic side, Silverada (formerly Mike and the Moonpies) are an indie folk duo that should be on your radar. Their delicate and introspective music focuses on acoustic arrangements and heartfelt lyrics, evoking comparisons to legendary folk duos like Simon & Garfunkel.
7. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan is an emerging artist in the indie folk scene who, like Zach Bryan, blends folk traditions with a modern twist. His 2022 album Stick Season has gained attention for its honest, heartfelt lyrics and catchy folk-pop melodies. Fans of Zach Bryan will appreciate Noah Kahan’s blend of folk storytelling with a more contemporary sound.
8. Charles Wesley Godwin
Charles Wesley Godwin is simply one of the most talented artists similar to Zach Bryan. He opened for Bryan during his 2022 tour and appeared on Bryan’s popular song "Jamie." His 2019 album Seneca marked the beginning of his rise in the indie country scene.
Conclusion
For fans of Zach Bryan who are looking to explore more artists with a similar style, there is a wealth of talent to dive into. As indie folk and new country music continue to evolve, artists like Zach Bryan and his contemporaries are pushing the boundaries