From their very first song, Chicago pop-punk band When The Sun Sets has made mental health an essential part of their music. Their newest song, “Undertow,” from their upcoming album, discusses “struggling with your mental health even when you’re making progress with it,” as lead singer Zack Baumgartner explains. Teaming up with fellow Chicago pop-rock group Definitely Maybe to record the song, the two artists remind listeners that their music will always be there for them no matter what.
Check out my interview with Zack Baumgartner and learn about the past, present, and future of the band’s music, as well as how they are spreading awareness for mental health.
MSM: How was “Undertow” created? What’s the story/inspiration behind using that word?
ZACK BAUMGARTNER: "Undertow" is a mix of self reflection in that nobody’s mental health is linear, and a lot of people experience depressive and anxiety ridden states even through our progress. "Undertow" brings to light that no matter how dark it may be, at least we made it out of bed today. It is a win that everyone can take, and we feel that the word was appropriate given that our mental health feels like it can sweep us away into darkness at times, just like an undertow sweeps out to sea.
How did the collaboration with Definitely Maybe come to be?
We’ve been friends with Definitely Maybe for a little over a year now, and we formally met them when they opened our Chicago suburbs show on a fall weekend tour. Personally, I loved their music, and their message was right where ours is. We truly love the story behind the band and their music has been a powerful force in our local community over the past year. It was clear to us that joining forces with a likeminded group of friends for a cause that we both support was a no brainer. We had “Undertow” ready to go, and we were lucky enough to be graced with Courtney’s vocals and writing help as she joined the process. We just want people to feel like they aren’t alone with this song, and Definitely Maybe really helped us get that vibe across.
What is one underrated mental health tip or piece of advice that you would give to fans?
I think it is crucial to be open about your mental health with the people closest to you first and lean on a support system that you are the most comfortable with. We recommend professional help to anyone who is thinking about getting it, and urge you to talk to professionals if you aren’t really sure what you are feeling. Mental health isn’t something to be afraid of talking about, and nobody should be ashamed to get help.
What has the transition from being signed to independent been like?
To be completely honest, there wasn’t much of a change for us. We opted to pay for everything when we were a part of our previous label. It helps that they were also a collective which gave back to the artists as much as they possibly could. When the pandemic began, we had to move forward in any way possible and being an independent band was the best option on the table for our future. We’ve always had the privilege of making our music without any interference, so luckily we weren’t too affected by the change.
What has it been like putting together your first full-length album?
I think, for myself, it feels like a giant milestone that we’re grateful to be reaching. A band’s first full-length record is a defining moment in their career because it represents the endless hours of work put in to create a collective of so many songs in one package. I’ve grown up alongside this band, being just about 18 years old when I started it, and seeing this group of songs come together over the last year or two has really made me proud of the team we have. This album is a testament to a lot of teamwork and a mission to help people feel less alone, one song at a time.
What about A Day To Remember has made them have such a big influence on your music?
The diversity in their music has always been an inspiration to us, and staying true to the feelings that they have inside. It’s easy to stick with the same exact sound, and we have been pushed by ADTR to keep exploring. Their unmatched energy at live shows is something we’ve also looked up to and strive to make a show rather than just a performance.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
It would be a dream to collaborate with some of the greats in our scene like Fall Out Boy, Four Year Strong, or State Champs because they are staples of the scene that we would love to be in the presence of, whether that is a show or music collaboration.
What current artist(s) would you say are doing a great job of raising awareness for mental health?
Real Friends is an artist that has always been a major supporter of mental health awareness that I looked up to when I struggled as a teenager and still look up to now. Coming from the Chicago suburbs and bringing their message across the world. Another one that has always stood out to me has been Neck Deep, because not only does their music talk a lot about it, but they are very vocal when performing, advocating for mental health awareness constantly.
Since you’re performing at Emo Night in Chicago on December 6, what are some of your favorite throwback emo songs?
“My Own Worst Enemy” by Lit has to be a go-to for me because it really got me into the genre. I would also throw “All Signs Point to Lauderdale” by A Day To Remember and “Sincerely Me” by New Found Glory.
If there was a Spotify Wrapped for the memories your band made this year, what would be some of the highlights?
We’re looking like we are growing slow and steady this year which is always something to be proud of when you are a band with other full-time commitments (work, family, kids, etc.). We’re so blessed to be bringing our music to more people year over year and are so excited to see the results of this year’s hard work. We’re excited to see how many new and returning listeners we have as well as how many countries our music landed in. We hope that our messages are conveyed through this music wherever it is listened to, and thank every single person who has been a part of our music journey so far.
What hopes or goals do you have for 2025?
Our goal has always been to reach people and make them feel something through our music. From a more literal standpoint, we are hoping that 2025 is a formative year for us because we are dropping our first full-length record and doing the most touring we have since starting the band. We want to continue to spread a message of positivity and hope to whoever needs it, and think this record is going to do a great job of displaying that. It is our goal to play some festivals in 2025, so we’re hoping that comes to fruition and are looking forward to continuing the push through another amazing year.