Zac Brown Band have added an unexpected new milestone to their career after their hit song Free was selected as the final wake-up call for astronauts aboard NASA’s Artemis II moon mission, marking a unique crossover between country music and space exploration.

The band gained another acolede when the fan-favorite anthem was played for the Artemis II crew as part of NASA’s long-running wake-up tradition, with frontman Zac Brown personally delivering a touching message to astronauts Reed, Victor, Christina and Jeremy.

“Good morning Reed, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. Zac from Zac Brown Band here, checking in from the USA,” Brown said in the recorded message. “We hope that piece of our song, ‘Free,’ helps start your day with the right kind of lift. We just want to say how proud we are of you. It takes courage, grit, and freedom to chase the unknown. It's the purest kind of American spirit.”

He continued: “Millions back home are looking up and feeling more inspired because of you. Keep flying strong. Keep flying safe. We can't wait to welcome you home. Come see us on the road.”

The emotional moment places Zac Brown Band among a select group of artists whose music has been featured in connection with historic NASA missions, further cementing the group’s cultural impact beyond the world of country and Southern rock.

Known as one of the band’s most beloved songs, Free has long resonated with fans for its themes of love, freedom and adventure, making it a fitting soundtrack for a mission built around exploration and discovery.

The NASA recognition comes during another major chapter for Zac Brown Band, who are preparing to launch their highly anticipated Love & Fear Tour later this summer. The nationwide run begins July 17 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and follows a landmark year for the Grammy-winning group.

Over the past decade, Zac Brown Band have become one of country music’s most successful crossover acts, earning three Grammy Awards, selling more than 30 million singles and 11 million albums, while amassing over 11 billion streams worldwide. The group has also scored 16 No. 1 radio singles and made history as only the second act to top both the Country and Active Rock charts.

Their recent Love & Fear residency at Sphere in Las Vegas also saw the group become the first country band ever to perform at the groundbreaking venue, adding yet another record-breaking achievement to their resume.

From sold-out stadium shows to now soundtracking one of America’s most talked-about space missions, Zac Brown Band continue to prove their reach extends far beyond the stage.

We hope that piece of our song, ‘Free,’ helps start your day with the right kind of lift. We just want to say how proud we are of you. It takes courage, grit, and freedom to chase the unknown. It's the purest kind of American spirit.

Listen to the clip here.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.