Noah Kahan has rapidly become a prominent name in the music industry, captivating audiences with his heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies. For fans discovering his music, a common question arises: Where Is Noah Kahan From? The answer is deeply intertwined with his identity and artistry. Noah Kahan hails from Vermont, a state that not only marks his birthplace but profoundly shapes his music, particularly his critically acclaimed album, Stick Season.
Scenic view of Vermont's Green Mountains, the home state of singer-songwriter Noah Kahan, known for his album 'Stick Season'
Born on January 1, 1997, Noah Kahan’s story began on a tree farm in Vermont. This upbringing in the Green Mountain State is not just a biographical detail; it’s the bedrock of his musical narrative. His father, recognizing his son’s burgeoning passion, introduced him to the guitar at a young age. By eight, Kahan was already immersed in songwriting, a testament to his early connection with music. He started sharing his raw talent with the world through platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud, laying the foundation for his future career.
At the age of 20, Noah Kahan’s dedication and talent culminated in his first record deal. This marked the beginning of his professional journey, leading to the release of his EP Hurt Somebody in 2018. The EP featured “Young Blood,” a single that had already gained viral traction in 2017, introducing Kahan to a wider audience. 2018 proved to be a pivotal year, with chart placements across various countries and opportunities to tour alongside established acts like The Strumbrellas and George Ezra. He also made his late-night television debut on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, further cementing his place in the music scene. Following these support tours, Kahan embarked on his own headlining tour across North America and Europe, demonstrating his growing fanbase and performance prowess.
His debut full-length album, Busyhead, arrived in 2019, featuring the single “False Confidence.” This album also highlighted Kahan’s commitment to mental health advocacy. Demonstrating this commitment, he pledged a portion of his 2023 tour proceeds to the Busyhead Project. This initiative supports marginalized communities by providing both immediate crisis intervention and resources for long-term resilience, showcasing Kahan’s dedication to using his platform for positive impact. He followed Busyhead with the Cape Elizabeth EP, which included “Pride,” a collaboration with mxmtoon, further expanding his collaborative spirit and musical exploration.
2021 saw the release of his second album, I Was / I Am. The single “Someone Like You,” featuring Joy Oladokun, offered a glimpse into the introspective and evolving sound Kahan was developing, hinting at the deeper dive into his roots that was to come.
Then, in 2022, Noah Kahan released Stick Season, his third full-length album, which became his breakthrough moment. The album title itself, “Stick Season,” is a distinctly New England term, referring to the period between the vibrant colors of fall and the first snowfall. It’s a season characterized by bare trees, a muted landscape, and a sense of transition – often perceived as grey and cold. This album was a full embrace of his Vermont origins and resonated deeply with listeners. Stick Season garnered Kahan a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist and topped the Billboard rock and alternative album charts. The title track, “Stick Season,” climbed to number 13 on Billboard’s Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. Another standout track, “You’re Gonna Go Far,” became an anthem connecting with multiple generations, capturing the emotions of young people embarking on new chapters and their parents watching them grow. Expanding on the album’s success, Stick Season (Forever), an extended version released in 2024, featured collaborations and new tracks, including the single “Forever.” Currently, Noah Kahan is touring in support of Stick Season, with sold-out shows, including two nights at Fenway Park in Boston. Recognizing fan demand, he has also offered a livestream option for the Fenway concerts, ensuring broader access and continuing his commitment to the Busyhead Project by donating a portion of the livestream ticket sales.
Noah Kahan’s music is undeniably shaped by his Vermont roots. Knowing where Noah Kahan is from is key to understanding the essence of his artistry. From the imagery of the Green Mountains to the introspective nature of “stick season,” Vermont is not just a location for Noah Kahan; it’s an integral part of his musical identity and storytelling.
