Noah Kahan Discusses Stick Season, Collaborations, and Mental Health Advocacy

In a recent interview with Popdust, Noah Kahan opens up about the success of his breakout album Stick Season and his growing reputation as a storyteller in the world of folk-pop. Known for his ability to craft emotionally charged, relatable narratives, Kahan reflects on how collaborations with major artists like Post Malone and Kacey Musgraves have influenced his sound and broadened his reach. As he prepares for an upcoming stadium tour, Kahan delves into the deeper themes of his music, his approach to songwriting, and his dedication to mental health advocacy.

The Breakthrough with Stick Season

Noah Kahan’s Stick Season has been a game-changer in his career, solidifying him as a leading voice in the folk-pop genre. The album, released as a deluxe edition in 2023, showcases his ability to tap into universal themes of heartbreak, longing, and the struggles of navigating life’s emotional ups and downs. In the Popdust interview, Kahan credits the album’s success to its deeply personal nature. “It’s an album about feeling stuck, both physically and emotionally,” he explained, adding that the concept of Stick Season—a term referring to the transition between fall and winter in New England—perfectly captures the sense of being in a liminal space​.

Collaborations with Post Malone and Kacey Musgraves

One of the highlights of Kahan’s recent journey has been his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, including Post Malone and Kacey Musgraves. These partnerships, he explains, allowed him to experiment with blending his folk roots with other genres. “Working with Post and Kacey was surreal,” Kahan shared. “They brought their own unique styles, which helped me expand my sound in ways I never imagined.” These collaborations not only added new textures to his music but also introduced him to wider audiences, contributing to his growing popularity​.

Storytelling Through Music

At the heart of Kahan’s music is his gift for storytelling. In the interview, he explained how his lyrics are often inspired by his personal experiences, but he writes in a way that invites listeners to project their own stories onto his songs. “I think the best songs allow people to feel seen,” Kahan said. His ability to write about difficult emotions with honesty and vulnerability has resonated with fans, many of whom connect with the themes of anxiety, loss, and resilience that permeate his work. Kahan’s storytelling has become a defining feature of his music, setting him apart in a crowded pop landscape.

Mental Health Advocacy

Beyond his music, Kahan has been vocal about his commitment to mental health advocacy. His own struggles with anxiety and depression have informed much of his songwriting, and he is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues. Through initiatives like The Busyhead Project, Kahan has worked to support mental health organizations and provide resources for those struggling with similar issues. In the interview, Kahan emphasized the importance of speaking openly about mental health, particularly for young people. “I want my music to be a space where people feel like they’re not alone in what they’re going through,” he said​

Upcoming Stadium Tour

As Noah Kahan prepares for his upcoming stadium tour, he is excited to bring the emotional intensity of Stick Season to live audiences. He spoke about how performing these deeply personal songs on such a large stage is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “It’s a dream come true to be playing in stadiums, but it’s also terrifying because these songs are so close to me,” Kahan admitted. Despite the pressure, he is looking forward to connecting with fans and continuing to share his music with the world​

Kahan’s blend of heartfelt storytelling, innovative collaborations, and commitment to mental health advocacy has established him as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music. His journey with Stick Season is just the beginning, as he continues to explore new creative avenues and use his platform for positive change.