On Friday, Sept. 29, at 1 p.m., I was waiting to purchase tickets for Noah Kahan’s “We’ll All Be Here Forever Tour.” I was first introduced to Noah Kahan when I came across his song “False Confidence,” and ever since then, I have continued to listen to him because I can relate to the things he sings about.
The Vermont native released his first song, “Young Blood,” on Jan. 27, 2019, which received a gain of over 9 million streams. He released “Stick Season” back in 2021, which led him to soar to the top of the charts. Kahan has come a long way since his first album, “Bushyhead.” I continue to be a fan because Kahan does an amazing job at being able to describe people’s feelings.
I believe his fans like his music because he is able to connect with people on a personal level by specifying the feelings they are experiencing. His ability to put emotions into words is astounding. The folk singer is known for singing about small-town claustrophobia, emotional introspection, and the intense process of self-discovery. Kahan brings vulnerability, self-awareness, and complete honesty in his music, which has struck a chord with people in their later adulthood. A sensitive topic he is known for openly speaking about is his personal experience with mental health.
Kahan is very outspoken about this topic since he has struggled with his mental health himself. He covers this topic to reach out to those who have also experienced it. He addresses grief, depression, anxiety, nostalgia and personal failure. His songs talk about trauma and universal struggles but also about the healing process.
On Oct. 10, the day known as World Mental Health Day, Kahan announced that his mental health initiative, The Bushyhead Project, surpassed their original goal to raise 1 million dollars to provide mental health resources. The initiative ended up generating $ 1.9 million. This money will support organizations that deliver mental health treatment and improve access to care in underserved communities.
I personally have dealt with my fair share of mental health issues, but. I have worked through them with the support of friends, family and the support of a therapist. If you are struggling with your mental health, I just want to let you know that you are not alone. The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) is here to help. It’s a free nationwide peer-support service. If you find yourself in need of help or support, please contact the NAMI helpline by calling 1-800-950-6264 or texting, “Friend” to 62640.
