Singer-Songwriter Jeremy Kahan Reflects on Stick Season and Vermont Roots

Singer-songwriter Jeremy Kahan’s latest album, Stick Season, has catapulted him to fame with its pop-folk sound and relatable lyrics. Influenced by his Vermont roots, Kahan’s songs capture the essence of New England and the transitional period between fall and winter known as ‘Stick Season.’ In an interview with NPR’s Elissa Nadworny, Kahan reflects on his album, the importance of details in songwriting, and how his time in Vermont shaped his music.

Kahan explains that ‘Stick season’ refers to the period between October and the first snow, when the leaves have fallen and nature is in transition. He drew inspiration from this term, as it represented the in-between moments in his own life. He spent many stick seasons in Vermont during his early twenties, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth. The album captures the emotions of this transitional period, which Kahan believes many can relate to.

While writing pop songs, Kahan initially strived for universality and relatability. However, he eventually realized the importance of specificity and details in storytelling. He felt that he had lost touch with his own experiences by trying to appeal to a broad audience. With Stick Season, he aimed to reconnect with his own feelings and reflect his interpretation of life at that time.

The pandemic played a significant role in Kahan’s creative journey. Feeling burnt out and unsure of what he wanted from his music career, he returned to Vermont to be with his family. The time at home provided a much-needed break, but also reintroduced the challenges of living with his parents as an adult. Kahan found himself wanting the care and support he received as a child, but his parents reminded him that he was now responsible for his own life. This experience brought him back to a sense of youthful songwriting, reminiscent of his earlier work.

Kahan’s success has been bolstered by the support of his Gen Z fan base, who affectionately refer to themselves as ‘Busyheads.’ He has gained widespread recognition, receiving invitations to perform on Saturday Night Live and earning a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. His album’s popularity on TikTok has also contributed to his rapid rise.

As Kahan releases an iteration of Stick Season featuring collaborations with artists like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Jack Antonoff, he bids farewell to this era of his career. However, he remains grateful for the experiences and connections he has made along the way.