Song: Don’t Dish It Out If You Can’t Take It
Artist: Zach McKenzie
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Genre: Country/Soul
Zach McKenzie returns with Don’t Dish It Out If You Can’t Take It, a powerful breakup anthem that blends country storytelling with a deep, soulful delivery. Known for his raw and raspy vocals, McKenzie brings both emotion and attitude to this track, proving that heartache doesn’t always end in tears—it can be the spark that ignites something even better.
The song kicks off with a strong, acoustic-driven melody that immediately sets the tone. There’s a warmth in the instrumentation, a mix of traditional country elements with just the right touch of bluesy swagger. The percussion is steady, allowing McKenzie’s vocal performance to shine through, while the background guitar licks add texture to the song’s layered production. This is not a track that wallows in sorrow but instead celebrates a personal comeback—one where love lost leads to something even greater.
Lyrically, McKenzie flips the heartbreak narrative on its head. The opening lines, “I’ll admit that I saw red when I heard the news / You’ve been running around on me and I ignored the clues,” set up what could have been a classic country breakup song. However, instead of wallowing in despair, the chorus reveals an unexpected twist—he’s moved on, and his ex is the one struggling. “If you’re mad because, without you, I’m gonna make it / Then maybe next time, don’t dish it out if you can’t take it,” he sings, making it clear that the tables have turned.
McKenzie’s vocal delivery is filled with conviction, and it’s easy to feel the catharsis in his performance. He doesn’t just sing the words—he lives them, making every lyric resonate with listeners who have found themselves in similar situations. The bridge stands out as a pivotal moment, as he acknowledges the irony of the situation: while his ex hoped he’d be miserable, he’s unexpectedly found happiness.
The song is catchy without feeling forced, making it a perfect addition to playlists that celebrate resilience and moving on. With its mix of country and soul, Don’t Dish It Out If You Can’t Take It is a track that will resonate with fans of both genres, cementing McKenzie as a standout voice in the modern country scene.
For Fans Of:
Chris Stapleton – Parachute
Cody Johnson – Til You Can’t
Morgan Wallen – Sand In My Boots
Travis Tritt – Here’s A Quarter (Call Someone Who Cares)
Brothers Osborne – It Ain’t My Fault