Happy. talks sophomore album “Imposter Syndrome” and working with Marc McClusky – exclusive interview

On October 30th, South Carolina natives Happy. released their sophomore album Imposter Syndrome.

Frontman Tate Logan sat down with us to talk about the inspiration of the album, personal experiences, and working with Marc McClusky, a producer who has worked with names like Motion City Soundtrack and Weezer.

What were some of the inspirations for Imposter Syndrome?

This whole record is a reflection of the effects of imposter syndrome as musicians. There are definitely highs and lows to having any sort of spotlight of you, no matter the size. We explored all the experiences we have had touring and releasing music over the last two years in this album. We talk about depression, anxiety, addiction, death and how much pressure we feel. We also talk about some of the greatest nights of our entire lives. Meeting fans, seeing the country, touring with some of our favorite bands is all absolutely incredible. This record is an ode to figuring out your goals and how to get there without losing yourself along the way.

What were some changes/shifts/progress (whatever you want to call it) you guys made from your previous records?

The majority of our first record was a collection of songs I had written over a large chunk of my life. The songs talk about a lot of different experiences and time periods for me. We love that record and are so grateful for everything it has given us. It feels somewhat all over the place though now. All of those different times in my life came with different musical influences as well. Imposter Syndrome is entirely different. The three of us sat down together in an old, empty church and wrote this album as honestly and organically as possible. We wanted to create something cohesive and thematic. All of the songs have a different take on imposter syndrome.

What makes Imposter Syndrome different and sets it apart?

Everyone experiences imposter syndrome at some point in their life or career, but we don’t like to talk about it. Not feeling good enough, successful enough, or inadequate compared to others for whatever reason is self deprecating; yet we do it all the time. We as individuals have to set our own goals and measure our own success in relativity to our own happiness and personal lifestyle. Everyone has different life experiences therefore you can’t measure success or happiness in the same ways for every person. Being in a creative field puts artists in a spotlight where they have to ignore this and hide this. We decided to look that directly in the face on this album. We are breaking the fourth wall between fans and artists to say “we are figuring out how to be successful and happy day by day too.”

What are some personal experiences you guys have with dealing with imposter syndrome?

Each song on the album deals with a different experience, both good and bad. “Sick is the New Sane” is a reflection of trying to balance an online personality with real life relationships. “A Cure for Wellness” and “Background Noise” are about addiction and enabling addiction. “Liarliar” is about depression. “April is For Fools” is about the loss of a friend to suicide. “Dull Boy” is about the grind of touring and putting out music as a “DIY” band. “June Gloom”, “Hooky”, and “Black Picket Fence” are about romantic relationships. “After School Special” is about exploring sexual and gender identity.

Has quarantine sparked anything new for you guys? New hobbies, skills, etc?

I’ve definitely taken up badminton! Also lots of puzzles, yoga, and taking care of plants. Sean and John really love sports and Fortnite. We’ve been spending a lot of time perfecting our live show for when they are safe again and also writing tons of new music!

Mark McClusky has produced for some big names like Weezer and Motion City Soundtrack. What is it like working with someone who has worked with some really talented artists?

Marc McClusky is honestly one of the greatest guys we’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. He made us feel comfortable, important, valued, and respected. He also wasn’t afraid to tell us if an idea was terrible, which is rad. He understood our vision and brought it to life. He is literally brilliant, I can’t even describe it. He’s so damn funny too. Shout out to his dog Thanos.

What are some messages that you have for your fans?

The world is really weird right now, but we are here for you and we will continue to keep connecting with you and giving you new stuff!

What’s next after Imposter Syndrome (if you have thought that far in advance yet)?

We are always writing. We are always planning new things. 24/7. It never stops for us. Happy. is fueled by inspiration and so far it has led us to beautiful places without failure or slowing down.

Any last things you would like me to know?

Stream Imposter Syndrome! Also thank you so much for your time and for reading this, we love you.

We’d like to thank Happy. for taking the time to sit down and chat with us! You can stream Imposter Syndrome by using the Spotify link below and you can follow Happy. on Instagram by clicking here.

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