HAAS is a pop artist from Virginia. HAAS started out writing songs and playing covers in her basement as a form of escape.
Interview conducted on February 14, 2021
By Dan Locke
Pop rock artist HAAS have released their new single “Headfirst,” available on all digital streaming platforms NOW. HAAS’S previous EP “Love & Loss”, which was released in 2019, upheld a Kelly Clarkson-esque organic pop/rock sound, but HAAS has since taken on the inclusion of other elements into their music. “Headfirst” leans deeper into the pop spectrum, while still maintaining the vulnerability featured in their previous work. A true pop contender, HAAS is the epitome of authenticity
How did you start to write music?
I have always felt a connection to music and was/still is a huge part of my family. Growing up I wasn’t very popular and was bullied so I believe in order to cope, I started dabbling in learning how to play the guitar. Once I taught myself basic guitar, I began writing down my feelings and it stuck. It’s the one thing that allows me to be my most authentic self.
How did you get your first guitar, and do you still have it?
I actually took guitar lessons when I was younger because my childhood crush was taking the class. For some reason, it didn’t stick then, but a few years later my cousin Emily started playing and I wanted to be just like her. So, I got a cheap Yamaha acoustic and it has been with me ever since.
What is your guitar of choice now? Year, make and model?
I recently bought a PRS SE Tonare T50E and am obsessed.
Your music name came from your late grandfather. How has he inspired your music?
It did. He was such an awesome person and could never stop singing. It gave him such joy to share songs with people and I love that. He has inspired me to put myself out there and share a gift that I am blessed to have. I hope I am making him proud by sharing what I love with others.
What was your first performance like?
The first time I performed on stage was in elementary school. It was exciting and terrifying all at the same time, but always a feeling of being on cloud nine. The next time I truly started performing live was when I became the lead singer of my old band, Random Riot. During those shows, I definitely learned the ins & outs of live performances. All of these shows have set me up for current live performances.
How did Jon Bellion changed your way of thinking about music?
Jon Bellion is an incredible creative. He thinks a lot about how & why, but at the same time allows himself to really feel and jive when he’s creating. That process is something I’ve never really done before and I’ve truly been taking my time writing because sometimes quicker isn’t always better. He’d be one of the first people I’d love to work with if given an opportunity to do so.
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
Oh, my goodness, there are so many! I believe the first song I wrote was with my cousin Emily (I needed her to play the guitar because I was still learning) and it was called “Broken, No-Solid.” Looking at it now I’m cringing, ha. It has never been recording & probably won’t be unless I decide to rewrite it. I’ll never say never though.
Tell me about your new single “Headfirst” which was just released?
Headfirst is about being a dream in a place where dreams continually stay dreams. For me, it is an anthem to myself as to why I continue to pursue my passions. Being 26, I think people start to look down upon you because you “haven’t made it yet,” which to me isn’t the only definition of being successful, but they feel it’s time to get a real job, settle down, by a house, work 9-5, etc. That to me isn’t a life I want to live, nor can I. Headfirst is the explanation to those people why I feel the why I feel and why I can’t ever give up.
On your Facebook timeline you say “make ya feel it was no mistake to keep pushing to keep workin” What did you mean by that statement?
That is actually the final line in the second verse of Headfirst. It really stands out to me because it truly reiterates the meaning of never giving up and those feelings are absolutely real and valid.
What is your happy place?
My happy place is anywhere I feel at peace. Usually, it is while I’m on vacation, around people I love, or working on music in some form.
Anything you would like to say in closing.
Thank you again for anyone who has listened to my new song Headfirst and if you like it share it to everyone you know. Much love.
