‘What Not To’: Tucker Wetmore Breaks Records with Debut Album

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Tucker Wetmore is quickly becoming one of country music’s biggest new names. His debut album, What Not To, has made history as the highest-charting country debut by a new artist in 2025, entering the Billboard 200 at No. 15. Alongside that, Wetmore has officially surpassed 1 billion global streams across his catalog — a massive achievement for an artist just one year into his career.

His momentum shows no signs of slowing. On May 21, Wetmore will take the stage at Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium for his first sold-out headlining show there, a milestone that marks just how far he’s come in such a short time.

What Not To: Tucker Wetmore Breaks Records with Debut Album

Released on April 25, What Not To is already earning strong critical acclaim. Billboard calls it a debut “poised to be a star-maker,” while GRAMMY.com praises Wetmore’s songwriting for its “self-awareness and vulnerability,” noting that it makes his music as relatable as it is compelling. The Tennessean describes Wetmore as “built differently,” highlighting his sharp, straightforward storytelling and predicting that What Not To will be heard “at all times, day or night, worldwide.” American Songwriter believes the album “makes a statement”—one that defines both who he is as an artist and as a person, and proves that “he is here to stay.” Holler echoes this, applauding his “gravitas as a storyteller willing to share the struggles and realizations of a true-to-life journey.” Even Forbes notes that “clearly he’s off to a great start,” and Barstool Sports puts it simply: “This guy is going to be a megastar. Get familiar with the name now.”

The album spans a wide emotional range, from upbeat anthems to vulnerable ballads. Tracks like the viral hit “Brunette” gave Wetmore the biggest streaming debut of his career, while fan favorites such as “Drinkin’ Boots” and the emotional title track “What Not To” dig into themes of struggle, growth, and redemption. Wetmore doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, but he knows what he wants to leave behind. Songs like “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” showcase swagger and energy, while slower, reflective tracks like “Goodbye Whiskey” reveal a more introspective side of the rising star.

Following the album release, Wetmore dropped the official music video for “3,2,1,” his current single climbing the country radio charts and recently breaking into the Billboard Hot 100. Directed by Shane Drake, the video paints a bittersweet picture of fading summer romance and lingering memories. Wetmore also made his late-night television debut with a high-energy performance of “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and has recently appeared on The Viall Files and The Zach Sang Show.

April was a milestone month for Wetmore. He earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year and made his debut at Stagecoach, performing on the coveted Mane Stage. He just wrapped the U.S. leg of his WAVES ON A SUNSET TOUR 2025, and this summer he’ll hit the road as direct support for Thomas Rhett’s BETTER IN BOOTS TOUR, covering 33 shows nationwide. The two recently collaborated on a new track, “Small Town Girls,” now available everywhere.

Already behind Platinum-certified hits like “Wine Into Whiskey” and “Wind Up Missin’ You,” Wetmore has been named an artist to watch by Spotify, Vevo, Billboard, MusicRow, and the Grand Ole Opry. With What Not To, he delivers not just an album, but a defining moment — one that introduces a voice with grit, heart, and undeniable star power. Tucker Wetmore isn’t just one to watch. He’s already arrived.

For more updates, tour info, and announcements, visit TuckerWetmore.com or follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

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