Unsigned Spotlight: HAAS
HAAS is an alt pop artist from Washington, DC.
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Sam Haas
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to HAAS? How long has the band been around?
My love of band originated from watching Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Paramore, The Maine, etc. Bands have had such an influential role in my life. Being in a band meant spending time creating amazing things with your favorite people.
I was in a band in high school named Random Riot. I also tried to start a few but nothing ever felt right, until this project. HAAS has was established in early 2018.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
HAAS was originally supposed to be a solo project under my given name, Sam Haas, but after much debate with myself, my last name was the only thing that stood out; that was different. I had a few goods ideas before but they did not have the same ring to it.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
I am currently the sole writer for HAAS’ songs.. I take from many personal experiences and others experiences; love, loss, anxiety, depression, things happening in the world, etc. I try to learn and observe everything happening around me. I feel it is important to talk about these things in a way in which everyone can understand. Yes! I do believe as we learn, see new things, and change perspectives that the writing will grown with it.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
- Panic! At the Disco
- Paramore
- PVRIS
- Bring Me The Horizon
- Yungblud
- Fleetwood Mac
- 5 Second of Summer
- Dangerous Summer
- Royal Tusk
There are so many I can’t name them all! I think looking back on past music and looking towards future music is how some of the best work comes into the universe. I do not like to restrict myself when it comes to things. Listening to artists that might not be similar may give you the inspiration you need! I love listening to a bit of everything to stay inspired.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
ALWAYS HAYLEY WILLIAMS of Paramore! I find her journey so incredible. After a Jonas Brothers concert, I was guns blazing towards music as a career. I thought it was incredible that so many people with the same common interest could be in the same space interpreting music. Music bonds people together for good!
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
Preparing for a show is a bit boring. Lots of rehearsal number one, but vocally it is a bunch of stretching exercises for the vocal cords to get warmed up. I try to guzzle down water days prior and day of show. I have to eat pretty clean before show day and make sure my stamina and endurance are up to par. At lot of stuff prior to the show is necessary that way on show day, preparing is a breeze.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Releasing this single and having such positive feedback from it is the biggest highlight right now. I am so so glad everything is loving it!
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
If I could tour with a past band it would be The Eagles. I grew up on the Eagles and I think that would be the ultimate career highlight not only for me but to see my dad & mom having the best time of their lives! Present, as of right now, would be Panic! At the Disco. Watching them is like a movie! I absolutely idolize Brendon Urie and the art he creates!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank anyone who has listened to, streamed or purchased Behind Those Eyes! It means the world to me. Thank you for your constant support, I love you.