Review: Zach McKenzie’s “Don’t Dish It Out if You Can’t Take It”
Riding high on the momentum of his previous UK hit, “The Day That I Found You,” Zach McKenzie returns with “Don’t Dish It Out if You Can’t Take It,” a fiery breakup anthem that melds raw country storytelling with a soul-stirring, resilient spirit. Clocking in as a defiant declaration of emotional independence, the single stands out as a refreshing twist on the traditional heartache narrative.
From the very first verse, McKenzie commands attention with sharp, vivid imagery—“I saw red when I heard the news”—setting the stage for a tale of sudden betrayal and swift self-empowerment.
The track’s narrative pivots quickly from devastation to determination, as he chooses to “pack up and leave,” refusing to linger in sorrow. This decisive move is mirrored in the upbeat, infectious melody that drives the song, encapsulating both pain and liberation.
The chorus is a high point, with McKenzie deftly blending catchy hooks and clever wordplay. Lines like “Cupid doesn’t work on a time frame” highlight his knack for turning personal heartbreak into anthemic defiance. The rallying cry, “if you’re mad because, without you, I’m gonna make it,” not only underscores the resilience at the heart of the track but also resonates as a universal call to those who’ve ever reclaimed their strength after a breakup.
Musically, the single is a rich tapestry of country twang, soulful grit, and gospel-inflected harmonies. McKenzie’s signature vocal style shines through—imbued with honest vulnerability yet buoyed by a determined energy that invites listeners to celebrate their own newfound freedom. The production is clean and vibrant, ensuring that every strum of the guitar and every beat of the drum propels the message forward with anthemic charm.
Lyrically, McKenzie continues to solidify his reputation as a storyteller who isn’t afraid to bare his soul. In the playful second verse, the twist of stumbling into new love only two weeks after heartbreak adds a touch of serendipity and humor, proving that sometimes the best way out of the darkness is to dive headfirst into the light.
Overall, “Don’t Dish It Out if You Can’t Take It” is more than just a breakup song—it’s a celebration of reclaiming one’s power and the promise of new beginnings. With its compelling narrative, infectious energy, and genre-blending production, McKenzie not only reaffirms his rising star status but also delivers a track that will undoubtedly resonate with anyone who’s ever had to turn heartbreak into a stepping stone towards something better.
For fans of smart, soulful country music with an edge, Zach McKenzie’s latest single is a must-listen—one that boldly reminds us to stand our ground and love life, even when it leaves us picking up the pieces.
Pete Dupree`
