Zach Bryan, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has opened up about his transformative journey towards sobriety, which he describes as feeling “like a kid again.” Nearly a year after he announced that he had quit drinking alcohol, Bryan has seen significant positive changes in his life, particularly in his creativity and performance.
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In a recent conversation shared on his YouTube channel with actor Matthew McConaughey, to celebrate the release of his new EP, “Young Manhood & Other Donatable Organs,” Bryan reflected on the pivotal moment that led him to reassess his relationship with alcohol. “I used to think sobriety was a joke,” he admitted, revealing that for a long time, he did not recognise his drinking as a problem. Those thoughts have now changed, as he asserts that quitting alcohol has revitalised his passion for writing and performing.
Bryan recounted an unfortunate experience from a recent motorcycle trip across the United States, during which he spent excessive time drinking alone. The turning point came while he was stopped at a truck stop near Seattle. “I remember sitting on the curb, drinking a 40-ounce Budweiser, and realising that I felt emptier than when I had started my journey,” he reflected. This moment of clarity prompted him to question the purpose of his drinking and ultimately led him to confront the issues that were plaguing his life.
Before his sobriety, the 30-year-old had developed a routine that involved consuming upwards of 15 beers a day, attempting to quell his intense stage fright. At the time, he believed that alcohol was essential for a successful performance. However, Bryan confessed that the solitude he experienced on the road left him feeling desolate, realising that he had squandered precious time chasing an empty ideal.
Since making the decision to stop drinking, Bryan has found performing to be a much richer experience. He candidly addressed concerns that his songwriting ability would diminish without alcohol, noting that this EP marks the first project he has created completely sober. “Every hit I ever had, I was pretty much drunk when I made it,” he said, but he feels proud that he wrote and sang every word of this new work without the influence of alcohol.
Moreover, Bryan’s personal life has also flourished since he embraced sobriety. He recently married Samantha Leonard, whom he met while on holiday in Spain. He credits her with playing an instrumental role in his recovery. “I was living poorly and making all the wrong choices,” he shared. “When I met Samantha and told her I needed to stop drinking, she immediately supported me. Her influence truly saved my life.”
Bryan’s commitment to sobriety has resulted in a newfound sense of contentment. He previously expressed feelings of “perpetual discontent,” admitting that he felt a persistent void within himself. This has since been filled with a more profound sense of fulfilment and joy. “I feel great. I feel content. I feel whole,” he conveyed earnestly.
His latest EP was released on October 16 and features collaborations with notable artists like Lana Del Rey and the Turnpike Troubadours. Bryan’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative for many who may be grappling with similar struggles and highlights the importance of addressing mental health and substance abuse.
As he moves forward, Bryan embraces both his sobriety and the joy of creating music once more. For anyone facing similar challenges, Bryan’s story underscores the value of seeking support and striving for personal growth. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, it is vital to reach out for help, with resources available such as the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.