With a Gold-certified radio hit in “Smoke,” his first CCMA nomination and upcoming national tours, Zach McPhee is cementing his place as one of Canadian country music’s most exciting new voices – and he’s just getting started. Today, the Okanagan Valley singer-songwriter launches his next chapter with the release of his new single, “Feel Free”.
Written by McPhee with Brock Phillips and Jesica Hurst, “Feel Free” plays on the double meaning of its title – giving someone the space to move on, while also embracing the freedom that comes with letting go. With its edgy rock-country production, the track blends relatability and energy, showcasing the mix of heartfelt storytelling and modern country edge that has made McPhee a fast-rising favourite.
“It’s the kind of song I hope anyone who’s been through heartbreak can connect with and relate to,” says McPhee. “After we finished it, I had that same feeling I had when we wrote ‘Smoke’ – the lyrics and production came together perfectly. ‘Feel Free’ just naturally bridges the gap between ‘Smoke’ and the music that’s ahead.”
“Smoke” became a staple at Canadian country radio this year, spending four weeks inside the Top 10 and going on to achieve Gold certification. Off the strength of songs like “Smoke” and “Tears That You’ll Never Find” and his acclaimed debut EP Feels Country to Me (and its 2024 Deluxe Edition), McPhee has already amassed more than 30 million streams.
After a summer of standout performances at major festivals including Boots and Hearts and Big Valley Jamboree, McPhee is preparing to hit the road this fall. He will join Jess Moskaluke for a Western Canadian run from September 17 to October 4 across Alberta, BC, and Saskatchewan, followed by a string of Ontario dates opening for James Barker Band from November 4 to 13 (full tour schedule below).
McPhee’s breakout year also sees him front and centre at the 2025 CCMA Awards. Crowned SiriusXM’s Top of the Country winner during last year’s CCMA Awards weekend, he is nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year this year and will also present an award during the live CTV broadcast from Kelowna on September 13. As well, McPhee will perform at the annual Legends Show on September 11 and perform during the industry gala.
ABOUT ZACH MCPHEE:
Hailing from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Zach McPhee is one of country music’s most exciting new voices. Since his 2023 debut, he’s gained recognition for his raw storytelling, powerful vocals and undeniable authenticity. He was crowned the 2024 SiriusXM Top of the Country winner at the CCMAs and won two trophies at the 2025 BCCMA Awards – Album of the Year and Emerging Artist of the Year. Most recently, he has been nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the 2025 CCMA Awards. His debut EP, Feels Country to Me, and its 2024 Deluxe Edition – featuring the radio hit “Smoke” – have helped him amass over 30 million streams. With undeniable talent, chart-topping songs and unstoppable momentum, Zach McPhee isn’t just an artist to watch – he’s an artist you won’t be able to ignore.
TOUR DATES:
With Jess Moskaluke +With James Barker Band September 17 – Sidney, BC – Mary Winspear Centre
September 19 – Kelowna, BC – OK Corral Cabaret*
September 20 – Kamloops, BC – The Night Shift on 5th*
September 21 – Cranbrook, BC – Key City Theatre*
September 22 – Lethbridge, AB -Yates Memorial Centre/Sterndale Bennett Theatre*
September 25 – Swift Current, SK – Swift Current Allied Arts Centre*
September 26 – Red Deer, AB – Bo’s Bar & Grill*
September 27 – Calgary, AB -Deerfoot Inn & Casino*
October 1 – Rocky Mountain House, AB – Rival Trade Brewing*
October 2 – Grand Prairie, AB – Great Northern Casino*
October 4 – Fort Saskatchewan, AB – Dow Centennial Centre/Shell Theatre*
November 4 – Brantford, ON – Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts+
November 5 – St. Catharines, ON – FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre+
November 6 – Kingston, ON – Kingston Grand Theatre+
November 7 – Keswick, ON – Stephen Leacock Theatre+
November 9 – North Bay, ON – Capitol Centre+
November 11 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – The Machine Shop+
November 13 – Thunder Bay, ON – NV Music Hall+
