Producer Gabe Simon Provides Behind-the-Scenes Look at Noah Kahan’s ‘The Great Divide’

2026.
The news kept getting better for Noah Kahan’s album, as all 21 songs from the standard and deluxe versions appeared on the Hot 100 chart, a rare feat for a non-rap artist. Gabe Simon, who co-wrote and co-produced the album with Kahan and Aaron Dessner, shared the joy of achieving such incredible success with Billboard. The collaboration between Kahan, Simon, and Dessner on this album proved fruitful, leading to its immense popularity and critical acclaim.
Simon reflected on the creative process behind The Great Divide, noting the varying moods that inspired the songs. From moments of anger and darkness to others filled with fun and camaraderie, the different settings influenced the songs’ themes and tones. Despite the often dark subject matter, Simon revealed that the recording process at a farmhouse outside of Nashville was a lighthearted affair, with activities like riding dirt bikes, shooting shotguns, and spending time with animals contributing to a positive atmosphere.
Over the years, Simon and Kahan have developed a close bond built on trust and mutual respect. This partnership allowed them to harness a unique creative energy that translated into the album’s success. Simon expressed gratitude for the opportunities to push Kahan artistically and shape the direction of his music. Their unspoken connection and shared vision have been instrumental in crafting the album’s sound and emotional depth.
To provide insights into the album’s creation, Simon shared behind-the-scenes stories of several tracks with Billboard. Each song’s journey from inception to completion revealed the meticulous attention to detail and the collaborative effort that went into crafting the album. Simon’s role in guiding Kahan through the creative process and offering constructive criticism underscored the duo’s productive working relationship. The success of The Great Divide stands as a testament to their artistic synergy and dedication to creating meaningful music.
In conclusion, Gabe Simon’s recounting of his experience working on Noah Kahan’s album sheds light on the collaborative effort that went into producing such a successful project. The emotional depth, musical innovation, and creative energy that permeate The Great Divide are a testament to the synergy between Kahan and Simon. Together, they have created a body of work that resonates with listeners and solidifies Kahan’s place in the music industry.