Country music star Zach Bryan has revealed that he shares a portion of his recording royalties with his former commanding officer in the U.S. Navy, Leo Alba. Bryan, 30, stated that Alba was instrumental in his decision to record his music.
During a two-hour interview with Matthew McConaughey, the Grammy-winning artist explained that Alba's encouragement was the catalyst for his music career. "He's the reason I recorded any songs ever at all," Bryan said. "I thought it was justified, man. He's the reason I have any music at all."
Bryan, who served in the Navy from 2013 to 2021, described Alba's belief in him as pivotal. "I wouldn't be who I was without him f***ing looking at me and saying I can record those songs," he stated. Bryan added that Alba's family considers him an uncle, and Alba frequently attends his shows. "I give him a percentage of every song that I release," Bryan said, emphasizing the significance of Alba's support.
Alba, now retired, is reportedly doing well financially due to Bryan's generosity. "That's how much that meant to me. Him believing in me enough to do that for me," Bryan commented.
Bryan left the Navy in 2021 with an honorable discharge following the viral success of his track "Heading South." He reflected on his time in service, stating that the Navy "made a man out of" him and that he was proud to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather and father.
His latest release is an eight-song EP titled "Young Manhood and Other Donatable Organs," featuring collaborations with Lana Del Rey and Turnpike Troubadours. Bryan is scheduled to embark on a stadium tour next April, with 23 shows planned across the U.S., Canada, and Australia through December 18. The tour will feature a variety of opening acts, including John Fogerty, Emma Ogier, Ryan Bingham, and Vance Joy.
In 2025, Bryan ranked as the 13th highest-earning touring artist globally, selling 941,000 tickets and grossing $159.6 million, according to Billboard.
Earlier this year, Bryan drew attention for wearing a "Free Palestine" shirt during a performance at Gillette Stadium, following a controversy involving the venue's owner Robert Kraft.