Zac Young Delivers New Spin On Holiday Music With Latest Single ‘Blacked Out On A White Christmas’

“I rock from a different world” is the sentiment of vivacious Nashville pop-rocker Zac Young, who’s garnered a reputation for his adventurous and uninhibited style.

Originally hailing from Columbus, Georgia, the Nashville-based artist is looking to make his mark yet again as he’s recently “returned” from a musical hiatus. Formerly of rock/hip-hop band Stereomonster, which he formed himself, Young spent a large part of his 20s touring the southeast with the group.

Emerging back on the scene in a solo effort, Young released his debut album, Nocturne for the Nocturnal, in 2020. He followed it up with his newest EP, Play It Loud So the Stars Can Hear, which hit streaming services last year. Each of the six songs is a luminous celebration of his captivation with the moon, the cosmos, and all it symbolizes. 

But on December 11th, Young put his musical talents towards a sound and vibe more suitable — and perhaps relatable — for the holidays.

His new single, “Blacked Out on a White Christmas,” delivers his signature unconventional style, doling out a different take on festive feels. It may not be the same old warm and fuzzy style we usually get from traditional holiday music, but the title alone suggests a more real take for a lot of folks.

The intro offers a sparkly and glittery sound that soon hits with a fierce saxophone, delivering a bit of an intense and visceral vibe. The rock instrumentation soon takes full effect, and Young’s dramatic vocals then take center stage. The “Blacked Out On a White Christmas” chorus hits heavy with strong female harmonies, and while the title sounds almost silly and fun, the song maintains a more serious if not cinematic vibe.

He paints a picture of the usual sights and sounds of Christmas, but it’ll be anybody’s guess if he’ll remember any of it come morning. It closes out with a killer “Carol of the Bells” guitar riff, bringing the song home.

Like turning a snow globe upside down, Young’s fresh take delves beyond the surface of holiday cheer, recognizing that not everyone is into the festivity this time of year. Amidst all the flurries of activity and connection can come sadness and painful memories for some. And with that, heavy drinking may follow – hence the single’s clever title. 

For those who don’t quite relish the likes of such classics as Bing Crosby and Dean Martin, this distinctive single supplies a modern rock take on holiday music. Young admits the idea for the song came to him in October, and quickly snowballed from there. Despite its rapid production, “Blacked Out On a White Christmas” showcases a bold sound that may just live rent free in your head this holiday season.