Northern Attitude

Album: Stick Season (Forever)

Stream

Credits:

Produced by: Gabe Simon & Noah Kahan

Writers: Noah Kahan & Gabe Simon

Lyrics

Breathin’ in, breathin’ out
How you been? You settled down?
You feelin’ right? You feelin’ proud?
How are your kids? Where are they now?
You build a boat, you build a life
You lose your friends, you lose your wife
You settle in to routine
Where are you? What does it mean?
If I get too close
And I’m not how you hoped
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised out in the cold
If the sun don’t rise
‘Til the summertime
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised on little light
You bought some shit, you search online
You’re gettin’ lost, you’re gettin’ high
All alone, late in life
Scared to live, scared to die
You build a boat, you build a life
You lose your kids, you lose your wife
You settle down, you’re feelin’ lost
You’re gettin’ stoned, then kickin’ rocks
If I get too close
And I’m not how you hoped
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised out in the cold
If the sun don’t rise
‘Til the summertime
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised on little light
If you get too close
And I’m not how you hoped
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised out in the cold
If the sun don’t shine
‘Til the summertime
Forgive my northern attitude
Oh, I was raised on little light

Lyrics Insight

Background & Inspiration

“Northern Attitude” is a song by American singer-songwriter Noah Kahan, released on September 16, 2022, as the second single from his third studio album, Stick Season. The track was co-written and produced by Kahan and Gabe Simon. On November 10, 2023, a duet version featuring Irish singer-songwriter Hozier was released as part of Stick Season (Forever), an expanded edition of the album.

The song delves into themes of isolation and self-reflection, drawing from Kahan’s experiences growing up in the rural town of Strafford, Vermont. The long, cold winters and the town’s seclusion influenced his introspective songwriting. “Northern Attitude” metaphorically addresses a guarded heart shaped by such an environment, with Kahan seeking understanding and forgiveness for his reserved demeanor.

with reverb-rich vocals and dramatic piano accompaniment. The addition of Hozier’s emotive vocals in the duet version further enriches the track’s depth, culminating in a high-energy finale.

Upon its release, “Northern Attitude” achieved notable chart success, peaking at number 37 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number 16 on the UK Singles Chart. The collaboration with Hozier introduced the song to a broader audience, enhancing its international appeal.

The duet version was also performed live during Kahan’s Nashville show in early October 2023, showcasing the synergy between the two artists.

Interpretation & Fan Theories

The song “Northern Attitude” is a deeply introspective and emotional folk-pop track that reflects on themes of isolation, self-acceptance, and the influence of one’s environment on their personality. It captures the essence of growing up in rural, northern climates—where long winters and solitude shape a person’s emotional outlook.

Themes & Meaning:
Isolation & Emotional Guardedness

The phrase “Forgive my northern attitude” suggests an acknowledgment of emotional distance or coldness, possibly due to growing up in a place where survival often means self-reliance.
It reflects how upbringing in a secluded, wintry environment can make someone less expressive or open, yet not necessarily unkind.
Longing for Connection

Despite this “northern attitude,” the lyrics convey a desire for understanding and connection.
There’s a push and pull between wanting to be close to others and fearing vulnerability.
Nature as a Metaphor for Emotion

Kahan often uses imagery of nature—cold, vast landscapes—to represent emotional states.
The harshness of the northern setting mirrors emotional walls built out of self-protection.
Hozier’s Contribution in the Duet

Hozier’s addition to the song amplifies the depth of emotion, adding a richer, soulful perspective.
His signature poetic style blends well with Kahan’s storytelling, making the song feel even more profound and universal.
Musical Impact:
The gradual build-up from soft folk melodies to a powerful, cathartic climax mirrors the emotional journey of the song—starting with quiet reflection and swelling into a desperate plea for understanding.
The mandolin, piano, and atmospheric harmonies evoke the stark beauty of the northern landscapes that inspired the song.

Northern Attitude is about coming to terms with who you are, shaped by where you’re from, and hoping others can accept and understand you despite your emotional walls. It resonates with anyone who has ever felt distant, misunderstood, or shaped by their environment in ways they can’t control.