Zac Griffith on Country music's growing hold in Aotearoa

Country music is gaining real ground in Aotearoa. More and more global acts are making the trip south to perform, new fans are discovering the genre, and there is a strong crop of local artists coming through. For rising country artist Zac Griffith, it feels like something that has been building for a long time. Rooted in personal stories, small-town life, and a deep love for the genre, Griffith holds true to country’s heart while carrying his own Kiwi stamp. Fresh off the All Country Australia Showcase and gearing up for a headline run across New Zealand, he talks about the scene, writing from lived experience, and what comes next.

Country music is seeing a strong uptake in popularity in Aotearoa, especially in recent years. Why do you think this is?

To be honest I'm not sure whats kicked it off. Country has always been cool to me but it seems like others are only just picked up on it. Having the international country artists bring their tours to NZ has helped heaps. It has built an even bigger kiwi country fan base and is showing NZ fans and artists how big it is over the world.

Your sound veers towards the more melodic heartfelt country variety. Where do you draw inspiration from when you're writing?

Personal experiences are always the easiest things to write a song about. I guess whats happening in my life helps determine where my songs go. I always love getting inspiration from other country artists and the way they write their songs. How I was brought up and where I live, I feel always comes through in my songs.

Without a doubt, a lot of country music is characterised by a type of American culture and way of life. How do you bring a uniquely New Zealand flavour to your songs?

I guess I don't necessarily try to but when it shows through I am proud of it and definitely don't hide it. I just love country music and writing it!

You performed across the ditch at the All Country Australia Showcase. How did that experience compare with playing for local audiences?

I've played to a few country crowds in AU before and they truly love their country music like nothing else. The All Country Showcase was awesome to be a part of with Tucker Wetmore and Tori Forsythe so it was pretty special being the only Kiwi on the lineup. I was a little worried what they might think of a young Kiwi on the lineup but I had a great time with a great reception so was really happy how it went.

What can crowds expect to see on your upcoming headline tour in NZ?

I cant wait to play these shows and play my new EP live for the first time. There will be some classic country singalongs, some heartbreak, some drinking songs and hopefully a fun night for all.

When you're out on the road, what do you miss most about home?

Definitely my own bed! My truck and the slower paced life of country living.

Lastly, what do the next 12 months have in store?

The next 12 months are going to be super exciting with more writing, more new music, more shows and a whole bunch more in the works.