For the last decade, Jake Kussmaul has earned traction for his compelling artist writeups on various online publications. His first love, however, has always been crafting vulnerable, introspective, and original music.

From 2008 to 2018, the New York raised, Florida-based singer-songwriter recorded under the moniker Happy(?). His body of work consisted of several EP and album releases that fittingly and candidly explored themes of bliss and elation with undertones of anxiety, isolation, and fear – a reflection of his experiences navigating life with cerebral palsy.

These days, he complements such perspectives with those of growth and acceptance, hence his move to release music under his own name. In the summer of 2025, he signed with indie label Jam Lemon Records as one of their first American acts. His latest EP and debut release for the label, How To Care So Much (And More), marks a new chapter in his artistic journey, one that challenges disarray rather than avoids it.

Jake’s music connects with listeners who seek gritty, unpolished alt rock sensibilities, alongside messages of resilience and hope, and especially, an avenue for overlooked and underrepresented community, making him a compelling and refreshing voice in contemporary songwriting.

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