Meaning of You’re Gonna Go Far by Noah Kahan

“You’re Gonna Go Far” by Noah Kahan is one of seven new tracks that came out on 9 June 2023 as part of “Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever)”, the deluxe edition of Noah Kahan’s 2022 studio LP “Stick Season”. 

This song was written by Kahan, and he produced it with Gabe Simon, i.e. the executive producer of the album. It was put out through Republic Records, whom Kahan, who is 26 years old as of this writing, has been signed to since 2016.

The Lyrics of “You’re Gonna Go Far”

Noah Kahan is defined as a folk-pop artist, which in cases such as this we will take as meaning that whereas his lyrics have a folkish, storytelling feel to them, they aren’t as understandable as traditional folk pieces. 

Put simply, making comprehensive out of what’s being put forth isn’t always an easy task with his songs. For example, it’s not abundantly clear what type of relationship the vocalist has with the addressee. But considering that the word “babe” is used in that regard in the first verse, perhaps we can assume that it is a romantic one.

And by the time all is said and done, what “You’re Gonna Go Far” actually reads like is a relatively-complex breakup song. That’s the one sentiment that can be clearly discerned, that the vocalist – and perhaps others since he uses the word “we” – is saying goodbye to the addressee. 

Furthermore, he lets this person know that he’s not angry due to their departure, implying that they might presume otherwise. Or put alternatively, once again assuming that this is Noah’s girlfriend, he appears to be taking a mature approach to her example. For example, the first two verses more or less establish that the ‘hood they live in has gone to damn. And the third verse goes on to illustrate that Kahan does perceive that the current path they all are on is one that lacks fulfillment.

That’s why it can also be argued that the vocalist isn’t a romantic interest, i.e. the general applicability of this piece. But the addressee is also referred to as “love” in the chorus, thus buttressing the notion that she is Noah’s sweetheart.

So perhaps it can be taken that, all lyrics considered, the titular encouragement is a sarcastic one. For instance, in the chorus the vocalist also appears to be telling the addressee that even if she does bounce, her life will still suck, if you will. 

Furthermore, taking the post-chorus into consideration for instance, it’s as if he’s confident she will return, which, let’s say isn’t what you would logically expect from someone who is “gonna go far”.

So let’s conclude by saying that from a mental perspective, Noah understands why this person would want to leave. But sentimentally, as in taking into consideration that in the process she would be leaving him as well apparently some other loved ones behind, he’s not as wholly approving.

The Comment Section

TONI says:

“The line ‘It makes me smile to know when things get hard‘ resonates with a personal memory from my basketball days. I had a close friend and teammate who received a scholarship offer from another school. He didn’t want to leave me behind so he considered rejecting the opportunity out of loyalty. However, I recognized that accepting the scholarship would be more beneficial for his future. I encouraged him to pursue it, knowing that it would take him further than staying on our team.

Actually I wasn’t just okay when he finally saw the wisdom in leaving, I was genuinely happy for him. I believed he deserved better opportunities than what he had in our team. It was a step in the right direction for him. Reflecting on that moment, portions of the lyrics of this song evoke a sense of contentment and pride in witnessing someone overcome challenges for their own growth and success.”

MANSON says:

“A really intriguing read! I agree that Kahan’s lyrics are layered and cryptic, but that’s what makes his music captivating for me. It’s always fascinating to dig into the meanings behind his songs.”

ANDRE DUAH says:

“I never thought about ‘You’re Gonna Go Far’ from this perspective. I’ve always interpreted the ‘you’re gonna go far’ line as a sincere wish, not a sarcastic statement. But this makes me reconsider. Kahan is a master at putting complex emotions into words. Whether it’s a breakup song or a commentary on life, his songs always make you think.”

JOSHUA says

“Kahan’s lyrics are always up for interpretation, and it’s these ambiguities that make his songs relatable to a broader audience.”

PAULINA PEEL says:

“The complexity of the song makes it resonate with me even more. I think it’s not just a breakup song, it’s a song about life’s twists and turns. Kudos to Kahan for encapsulating it so beautifully.”

STEVE says:

“A truly introspective look at Noah’s lyrics. Whether it’s a love interest or not, the song touches on universal feelings of farewells and changing circumstances. I guess that’s why it strikes a chord with so many of us.

‘Your life will still suck’ is quite a harsh interpretation of the lyrics. I think it’s more about the challenges that come with moving on and starting anew, not necessarily an ill wish. But that’s the beauty of music, it’s open to interpretation.”

Let’s talk about Noah Kahan

Noah Berkenkamp Kahan, an enthralling American singer-songwriter, embarked on his professional musical journey by penning a significant contract with Republic Records back in the fruitful year of 2017. Originating from a humble backdrop, Noah’s music intricately weaves narratives that resonate with listeners, enabling them to tap into their own emotions and experiences through his poignant lyrics and mellifluous melodies.

The spotlight shone brightly on Noah with the advent of his deeply evocative single, “Hurt Somebody,” a track that not only managed to clinch gold status in his native United States but also permeated various international markets, finding a place in the hearts of a diverse and widespread audience. The soulful single is laced with vulnerability and a universal relatability that propelled it to become a herald of his evocative storytelling and unique sound.

“Hurt Somebody” did not stand alone; it was intimately tied to an Extended Play (EP) which bore the same name and served as an appetizer, offering listeners a taste of Noah’s distinctive blend of emotive lyricism and captivating melodies, preceding the full feast that was his debut album, “Busyhead,” unveiled to the world in 2018. “Busyhead” embodied a collection of melodic tales that demonstrated not just his ability to create enthralling music, but also to craft stories that linger, long after the notes have ceased.

Even more accomplishments

Navigating through the subsequent years, Noah didn’t merely rest on his early accomplishments. Instead, he demonstrated a continuous evolution of his artistry, delivering two additional albums to his growing discography and an ever-expanding fan base. “I Was / I Am,” released in 2021, showcased a matured, reflective Noah, offering deeper insights into his personal and artistic growth.

Following that, “Stick Season,” unveiled in 2022, wasn’t merely another album. It emerged as a pivotal moment in Noah Kahan’s career, marking his mainstream commercial breakthrough and solidifying his position in the industry. This album, replete with eloquently penned lyrics and melodies that meander through emotion and introspection, substantiated his capability to connect and converse with listeners on a profound level.

Over the span of merely five years, Noah Kahan has artfully painted landscapes of emotion, journeys of self-discovery, and snapshots of human connection through his music, etching his name into the realm of artists who not only create music but also curate experiences and evoke emotions, validating his significant presence in the global music scenario.

His journey from the introspective young artist of “Hurt Somebody” to the accomplished, mainstream sensation of “Stick Season” beautifully illustrates a voyage through growth, artistry, and an unwavering connection with listeners across the globe.