
Jeremy Williams
Deputy Arts Editor
P.ublished 7th October 2026
arts
Zack Gibson has figured it out...
At just 17, Scottish singer-songwriter Zack Gibson is already establishing himself as one of the most compelling young artists in Scotland’s new acoustic pop scene. Hailing from Broughty Ferry, Dundee, Zack’s clean, melodic songwriting and emotionally honest lyrics have quickly set him apart — earning early praise from The View’s Kyle Falconer, who called him an “unreal talent” after witnessing his standout performance at an under‑18s songwriting camp.
Since then, Zack’s rise has been steady and impressive. He’s written and recorded with Falconer and producer Andy Gannon, supported major Scottish artists including Cammy Barnes, and built a reputation for heartfelt, quietly powerful live performances across Scotland’s grassroots venues. In 2026, he stepped onto the international stage with a debut appearance at MiCannes Music Festival, and more recently joined The Bootleg Beatles as a support act — a rare opportunity for an artist yet to release his first single.
That moment has now arrived. Zack’s debut track “Figure It Out” is out on 4th September, offering an uplifting, hook‑driven message about finding your own way through life’s challenges. With industry backing from Riverman Bangkok and Future Sonic Collective and a growing catalogue of honest, melodic songs, Zack Gibson is an artist on the brink of a breakthrough.
We sat down with Zack for a Q&A to talk all things music, influences - and the story behind Figure It Out.
Hi, how are you?
I’m good, thanks! It’s been a busy time with the new single coming out, but I’m really enjoying it.
We are so excited about your new single Figure It Out, can you describe it for us?
Figure It Out’ is about taking your own path and not letting other people’s decisions or opinions decide things for you. I wanted to write about something relatable, because everyone’s trying to work out what they want to do with their life. It’s a song with a good energy, and I’m excited for people to hear it.
And what is your key ambition..
I’d love to become known as a songwriter and a star. I want to keep writing songs people connect with and get the chance to play them to bigger and bigger audiences.
We want to get to know a little more about your musical taste. Tell us a song (and a reason) that makes you :
Smile
Sunshine on Leith by The Proclaimers. It’s my grandad’s favourite song, so it always makes me think of him and puts a smile on my face.
Cry
Beautiful Boy by John Lennon. It’s a song that means a lot to me and my dad, so it always gets me a bit emotional.
Laugh
Skin and Bones by Foo Fighters. They played it when I went to see them live, and my mate started singing it while doing a silly dance. Now whenever I hear it, I think of that and start laughing.
Feel nostalgic
These Days by Take That. It takes me back to when I was younger. I used to play the music video all the time and sing and dance along with my mum.
Dance in the kitchen
Beautiful Sunday. It’s played at my favourite football team’s ground, and it always gets everyone up and joining in.
Sing in the shower
Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson. It’s just a good tune, innit?
Message a friend immediately
Columbia by Oasis, because it’s my best mate’s favourite song. If I hear it, I usually have to send it to him.
What was the best gig you have ever been to?
Oasis live last year. It was such a good atmosphere, and seeing them play those songs live was unreal.
What is the best show you have ever done?
When I supported Kyle Falconer in Irvine. It was a brilliant night, and getting to play for that crowd was a great experience.
What stage have you not performed on, that you dream of?
Hampden. It would be amazing to play there one day, especially because it’s such an iconic place in Scotland.
Lastly, you can achieve one thing by the end of the year, what is it?
To get a number one single. That would be massive—and I’m going to keep working hard and see how far we can take it.
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