Noah Kahan, the singer-songwriter behind hits like "Stick Season" and "The Great Divide," has a unique method for keeping his feet on the ground amid his rising fame. In a recent interview at the 2026 TIME100 Gala, the 29-year-old artist revealed that he goes into what he calls "Hannah Montana mode" to separate his public persona from his private self.
"I have an amazing family and a lovely wife and a whole life outside of music that allows me to feel grounded," Kahan told E! News. "Every time I go home to Vermont, my family immediately grounds me in the best way. I go Hannah Montana mode, you know? Like, I take the wig off and then I just be myself."
Kahan, who was named one of Time's Most Influential People of 2026, explained that disconnecting from the spotlight has always come naturally to him. "I've always found it easy to kind of disconnect, which is nice," he added.
The singer has also been open about his struggles with body dysmorphia, a mental health condition that causes persistent fixation on perceived flaws. He noted that sharing his mental health journey has deepened his connection with fans. "It means that I can be myself and talk about the things that I go through with specificity," he said. "And the fact that people receive that and find their own ways to connect to it is the greatest formula ever."
Kahan, who married his longtime partner last September, emphasized that being vulnerable has made life easier. "It allows me to be in the moment, to accept that I am worthy," he said. "It's been a really lovely practice trying to stay present."