Tucker Wetmore: Beyond the Hype, a Star Finds His Voice with ‘What Not To’
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the often-predictable landscape of country music, it’s rare for an artist to burst onto the scene with the kind of immediate, undeniable impact that Tucker Wetmore has achieved. While many spend years grinding, hoping for a sliver of recognition, Wetmore has, in just a single year, not only captivated a massive audience but also delivered a debut album, What Not To, that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. This isn’t just about chart numbers – though they are staggering – it’s about an artist who arrived fully formed, ready to redefine what a country newcomer can be.
What Not To isn’t merely a collection of songs; it’s a raw, unfiltered chronicle of Wetmore’s journey, distilling 25 years of life’s unpredictable twists and turns into an hour of compelling storytelling. From the moment you press play, it’s evident that Wetmore possesses a rare combination of grit and vulnerability. He’s not here to paint a picture of perfection; instead, he uses his music to explore the hard-earned lessons, the stumbles, and the moments of profound growth.
The album deftly navigates a spectrum of emotions and sounds. There are undeniably radio-ready anthems that showcase his broad appeal, but the true strength of What Not To lies in its moments of introspective depth. Take, for instance, “Brunette,” the viral sensation that kicked off his streaming dominance, or the rowdy, crowd-pleasing “Drinkin’ Boots.” These tracks offer the immediate, hook-laden energy that can ignite a stadium. Yet, it’s the album’s namesake, “What Not To,” that truly anchors the project. This track isn’t about prescribing a path to a better self, but rather a humble acknowledgment of what to leave behind – a powerful statement on redemption and the ongoing process of becoming. It’s this self-awareness, this willingness to lay bare his own imperfections, that makes his songwriting so captivating and relatable.
Beyond these thematic anchors, Wetmore showcases an impressive versatility. From the late-night swagger of “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” to the contemplative, slow burn of “Goodbye Whiskey,” the album highlights his expansive range as both a performer and a storyteller. He manages to infuse each track with a palpable authenticity, ensuring that even as his star rises, his music remains grounded in real experience.
The critical reception for What Not To has been overwhelmingly positive, and deservedly so. Publications like Billboard have rightly declared it “poised to be a star-maker,” while The Tennessean praised Wetmore for being “built differently,” recognizing his unique ability to deliver “to-the-point storytelling.” GRAMMY.com highlighted the album’s blend of “self-awareness and vulnerability,” echoing the sentiment that Wetmore’s authenticity is a key ingredient in his appeal. This isn’t just industry buzz; it’s a genuine acknowledgment of an artist who understands how to connect.
Wetmore’s ascent extends far beyond the album itself. Cracking over 1 billion total global streams and debuting What Not To at No. 15 on Billboard’s all-genre 200 Albums chart – making it the biggest country debut from a new artist in 2025 – are metrics that speak volumes. This remarkable trajectory is further punctuated by an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year and a show-stopping performance on the Mane Stage at Stagecoach. Looking ahead, his sold-out Ryman Auditorium debut on May 21st is yet another testament to his rapidly expanding fan base and a monumental milestone for any artist. With previous hits like the RIAA PLATINUM-certified “Wine Into Whiskey” and his first Mediabase Country Airplay No.1 “Wind Up Missin’ You” already under his belt, Wetmore’s momentum appears unstoppable.
Tucker Wetmore is more than just country music’s hottest rising star; he’s an artist who has, with What Not To, formally announced his arrival as a significant voice. He’s not just worth watching – he’s truly impossible to ignore.