Noah Kahan, the 29-year-old folk-pop sensation, has officially joined the ranks of artists contributing to the iconic Hunger Games franchise with the release of his new single, “Draw You Out.” The track, which debuted on 2nd October, serves as the lead single for the upcoming film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. This prequel, set to hit cinemas on 20th November, delves into the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, a character beloved by fans and originally portrayed as a mentor to Katniss Everdeen.
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Kahan expressed his excitement about the release in an Instagram post, stating, “Draw You Out for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping (The Album) is out now. Excited for you all to finally hear this song and see this beautiful film soon.” Accompanying the post, he showcased images of himself that prompted a wave of enthusiasm among his followers.
In the lead-up to the song’s release, Kahan shared his excitement and gratitude while reflecting on the creative process. “Writing this song was something I’ve always wanted to do,” he noted. He emphasised his admiration for Suzanne Collins, the author of the book that inspired the film, describing the opportunity as “insane.” He also acknowledged the profound connection he felt to the characters Haymitch and Lenore Dove, which allowed him to craft a narrative that resonates with the themes of grief, perseverance, and purpose.
“Draw You Out” marks a significant milestone in Kahan’s career as it positions him alongside prominent artists who have previously lent their voices to lead singles in the franchise. These include notable names such as Taylor Swift, Lorde, Coldplay, and Olivia Rodrigo. Kahan acknowledged the pressure associated with contributing to such a legacy, but he conveyed an eagerness to rise to the challenge. “It’s more doing justice to a bunch of people that have a really deep, intimate connection with these characters and these stories,” he remarked.
To ensure authenticity in his work, Kahan aimed to weave elements of his own life experiences into the narrative of Haymitch. He explained that he wanted to create a piece that resonated personally, thus avoiding the risk of producing something that felt disconnected from his own reality. “I think if you’re like, ‘I’m just going to write a song about Haymitch,’ it might lack the emotional depth that I wanted to bring,” he stated, highlighting the importance of personal investment in his artistry.
The film, set during the 50th Hunger Games, takes place 24 years prior to the events of the original trilogy and portrays the early life of Haymitch, exploring the experiences that shaped him into the character audiences came to know. Kahan, who co-wrote and co-produced “Draw You Out” with Aaron Dessner, drew inspiration from the narrative, creating a song that reflects both the emotional weight and the essence of hope embedded in the story.
While “Draw You Out” tackles somber themes, Kahan assures that it does not solely dwell in despair. “It is sad, but you’re not really coming to me if you’re looking for heartwarming,” he noted, suggesting that while the song contains elements of sadness, it also carries a sense of upliftment. “There are some uplifting things in there, but if you really listen, [I’m] still saying sad stuff. It just happens to have a cool beat behind it.”
As he anticipates the song’s reception, Kahan has also begun to consider the possibility of awards recognition, jokingly expressing his aspirations for an Academy Award nomination. “F— it, I want that EGOT,” he declared, showcasing his ambition within the music industry.
The anticipation for the film and its accompanying soundtrack continues to mount, with The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping soundtrack set to be released on 13th November, just one week prior to the film’s premiere. Comprising 29 tracks, the soundtrack promises a rich auditory experience to complement the film’s powerful narrative.
As Noah Kahan embarks on this new chapter, his inclusion in a franchise that has captured the hearts of many reflects not just a personal accomplishment but a compelling continuation of the legacy that has defined The Hunger Games over the years. With “Draw You Out” now available for streaming, fans are eager to see how Kahan’s contributions blend into the larger tapestry of this beloved series.