Rising country artist and songwriter Zach McKenzie has captivated fans with his soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and genre-blending sound. With his latest single, “The Day that I Found You,” McKenzie has not only hit a personal high note but also demonstrated his remarkable growth as an artist. In a recent interview, he shared insights into his journey from winning Arkansas Idol in 2012 to exploring new creative avenues in film and music. Here’s a look at the man behind the music and the dreams that drive him forward.
A Song for His Soulmate: “The Day that I Found You”
McKenzie’s latest single, “The Day that I Found You,” is an intimate piece inspired by his wife, and it has resonated with listeners nationwide. Reflecting on its success, McKenzie explained, “It’s almost poetic that the song has done as well as it has because it’s my most personal song yet. I wrote it for my wife. It’s really just a description of what it feels like to find that special someone when you weren’t even looking.”
This simple but profound sentiment has clearly struck a chord, underscoring McKenzie’s ability to capture universal emotions in deeply personal lyrics. The song conveys a sense of joy and gratitude, reminding listeners that sometimes life’s greatest blessings arrive unexpectedly.
Winning Arkansas Idol: A Turning Point
McKenzie’s journey as a professional musician began when he won Arkansas Idol in 2012. Reflecting on that experience, he revealed, “Winning that competition was a milestone because it lit a fire under me to pursue a career in singing. At the time, I had no clue what kind of artist I wanted to be.” Since then, McKenzie’s style and voice have evolved significantly, shaping him into a storyteller who knows exactly what he wants to say and how he wants to say it.
Influences and a Unique Sound
McKenzie’s music is a blend of Country, Soul, and Gospel—a unique combination that reflects his roots. Growing up singing in church and performing in his high school choir, he developed an early love for music and an appreciation for its emotional power. “Growing up in the church was a very positive experience for me,” he shared. “To this day, I like to write songs that reflect that feeling and paint that picture.” These early influences laid the groundwork for his unique style, which connects deeply with listeners who appreciate both the warmth and authenticity of his sound.
From American Idol to Nashville
McKenzie’s musical journey took him to the national stage when he competed as a Golden Ticket contestant on Season 12 of American Idol, performing in front of music legends like Mariah Carey and Keith Urban. While he didn’t win, the experience further validated his potential. “It was incredible,” he said. “If they saw something in me, then there must be something there.” This experience, coupled with his victory in *Arkansas Idol*, gave him the confidence to push forward, eventually leading him to Nashville, where he honed his craft and began performing live.
A Filmmaker at Heart: Joanett Road and Creative Storytelling
McKenzie’s passion for storytelling isn’t limited to music. He recently directed his first short film, Joanett Road, describing the project as his “film school.” While his focus remains on music, McKenzie hopes to one day expand Joanett Road into a full-length feature film. “They both involve storytelling. That’s the connective tissue,” he explained. “Whether it’s writing songs or writing a script, I’m a storyteller, and I enjoy exploring that in different ways.” This passion for narrative, whether in film or music, enriches his work and highlights his dedication to capturing the human experience.
The Joys of Performing: Solo and With a Band
McKenzie enjoys both solo performances and playing with a full band, each offering distinct experiences that fuel his creativity. “Playing solo is a lot more intimate, and I love that. However, the energy of a full band is probably my favorite part of performing live,” he shared. For McKenzie, solo performances allow for a closer connection to the song, while the band’s energy strengthens his connection to the audience. This versatility enhances his live shows, making each performance unique and engaging.
Looking to the Future
With plans for a full album release in 2025, McKenzie is eager to continue sharing his music with the world. His new single, he hopes, will leave listeners with a sense of joy and hope. “It’s a feel-good song. I hope it makes people smile and feel good. Everything can change in a moment,” he explained. McKenzie’s message of love and optimism is a refreshing reminder of the beauty in life’s unexpected moments.
A Bright Future in Storytelling
Zach McKenzie’s career reflects an artist who is both passionate and grounded, dedicated to sharing his life through music and film. Whether through a heartfelt country ballad or an intimate live performance, McKenzie has shown he’s a storyteller at heart—one whose work continues to touch audiences everywhere. As he looks ahead to future projects and his upcoming album, fans can expect even more of the heartfelt stories and soulful melodies that have defined his career.