Her Instagram bio states she is a “professional noisemaker”, but singer-songwriter Annie Haden’s new single, ‘Hardly a Party’ is anything but “noise.” The beautiful ballad, complete with flugelhorns and a brilliant production, features lyrics in which Haden seeks a partner who feels like home. She asks this partner whether they can leave the party early and have their own intimate seclusion together – “this party is hardly a party / until we’re alone” and “so come on / let’s break out the records / cause you’ve got a record / of breaking it down.” The cozy song evokes a yearning for warmth and intimacy.
The single is the first from her debut album, expected in 2026.
Haden is a singer-songwriter local to the Charlotte, NC area in the United States. I asked Haden about her songwriting and production process for ‘Hardly a Party’.
‘Hardly a Party’ is a song I wrote about my ideal partner – someone who is willing to leave the party early to have a living room dance party at home next to the record player. I’ve been playing it at my gigs for a while, but the remarkable people who volunteered their time and talents during the production process are really what make this song special to me. Joe O’Connell, Mat Tully, David Rhyne, Mark Jolly, and Brad Wilcox brought this song to life in a way I could have never imagined and I’m really grateful for their mentorship and creative brilliance.
Haden shared that her recording process is further documented on her YouTube channel, where listeners can follow along for more behind the scenes footage of the project. Haden plays gigs and offers live (and virtual) instruction all over the Carolinas. Follow her socials for future live performances.
Find Annie Haden on Instagram | YouTube | Website