Noah Kahan, Haircut | Bangerz N Bopz

In the 53^rd edition of Bangerz N Bopz (2026), we highlight “Haircut” performed by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Noah Kahan.

Bring on the bold, fierce songs! Bangerz N Bopz serves up background info and insights into songs across various styles, especially those that raise eyebrows and/or stir the pot.  Featured records can be classic or brand new. In the 53^rd edition of Bangerz N Bopz (2026), we break down “Haircut” performed by Noah Kahan.

And so begins “Haircut”. Noah Kahan continues singing, “I stretched my arms real wide, tried to break your fall / But you got up, mad as hell, and told me that I had it all.” Ooh-wee!  “Haircut” is the ninth track from The Great Divide, the fourth studio album by the Grammy-nominated Vermont singer-songwriter. Noah and Nina de Vitry wrote “Haircut.” Noah produced it with Gabe Simon.

“Haircut” begins abruptly with Noah Kahan singing the lyrics excerpted earlier.  This is a conspicuous start to say the least. “Haircut” checks off the usual boxes for the singer-songwriter: superb singing, captivating songwriting, and strong production characteristic of folk, folk-pop, and indie-folk. From the jump, Kahan is locked 🔒 in vocally.  Showing off his magnificent tone, he is commanding and delivers an expressive, nuanced performance. Instinctually, he understands when to dig into the performance – add some grit and put some stank on it!  Of course, the crème de la crème of any N.K. song is the striking lyrics.  Memorably, at the end of both verses, Kahan sings, “You told me, ‘If a lie turned true, a lie it would still be / You ain’t a goddamn hero now ‘cause you cry on live TV’.” Beyond intriguing writing, the melodies are tuneful and rhythmic. The chorus marks the section to beat, featuring the most memorable lyrics and melody.

“But at least I got a soul still, even if I’m in a bad place

Even if I’m eatin’ fast food, sleepin’ at my dad’s place

I’m so happy for your haircut, I’m glad you got your act clean

You’re showin’ up like bad news and leavin’ like a bad dream.”

The bridge stands out, too, led by its biting opening line: “Drove your ass home.” Noah said what he said!  Spotlighting the accompaniment, various string instruments, such as mandolin, fiddle, dobro guitar, and baritone guitar, make it sound quite folksy. All in all, “Haircut” marks another winner from Noah Kahan.  Face it, has getting the ears lowered ever sounded better? Nope!  This bop is best experienced by simply listening.

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Noah Kahan » The Great Divide » Mercury Records / UMG Recordings, Inc. » 2026

Noah Kahan, Haircut: Bangerz N Bopz No. 53 (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Mercury Records / UMG Recordings, Inc.; Art Laurence Luzon, cottonbro studio, Osmar Vasques, Sebastian Ervi, Wallyson Nascimento from Pexels; Gordon Johnson from Pixabay]

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