Zach Bryan shares a cut of all his royalties with his former Navy commanding officer

Zach Bryan says he shares royalties from every track he releases with Leo Alba, his former Navy commanding officer, crediting Alba with encouraging him to record music. Bryan described the arrangement as justified because Alba’s belief in him helped make his music career possible.

Bryan enlisted in the Navy at 17 and served for eight years, leaving in 2021 with an honourable discharge and the rank of Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class. He recalled the story in a conversation with Matthew McConaughey and said Alba often attends his shows. Bryan has also announced a 2027 tour linked to his EP *Young Manhood and Other Donatable Organs* and a memoir of the same name.