Singer, songwriter, and producer HAFFWAY has unveiled a compelling new collaboration with acclaimed artist Matt Maeson, as the pair join forces on a reimagined version of “Better If Worse.” The release brings fresh emotional depth to one of the standout tracks from HAFFWAY’s critically acclaimed debut album Wither.
The collaboration marks another chapter in the creative relationship between HAFFWAY, born Sam Westhoff, and Maeson, whose friendship began several years ago and has since evolved into a fruitful artistic partnership.
Reflecting on how the collaboration came together, HAFFWAY shared his admiration for Maeson, describing him as one of his most influential musical inspirations.
“Matt Maeson is one of my all-time faves. I’ve listened to him religiously for years,” says HAFFWAY. “We met at a concert, had a drink or three, hit it off, and then I left. A while later we ended up in a writing room together and wrote a really special tune for his latest album. He’s more talented than you can comprehend and also happens to be a phenomenal human. I couldn’t stop hearing his voice on this song and now I’m lucky enough I get to hear it in real life. I believe this is the best version of this tune.”
For Maeson, joining the record was an easy decision. “I met Sam a few years ago and we ended up writing a song that went on my album called ‘Stubborn As Religion,’” Maeson explains. “Since then, we’ve kept in touch and I’ve become such a big fan of his as an artist and as a person. When he asked me to hop on a song I already thought was fantastic, it was a very easy yes.”
Originally featured on HAFFWAY’s 2025 debut album Wither, “Better If Worse” is part of a deeply personal body of work that explores themes of love, heartbreak, mental health, and personal growth. The album earned widespread praise from major outlets including NPR and Rolling Stone, introducing listeners to HAFFWAY’s emotionally honest songwriting and distinctive sonic identity.
The new version benefits from the natural chemistry between the two artists, with Maeson’s unmistakable vocals adding an additional layer of vulnerability and intensity to the track’s already powerful narrative. Together, the pair deliver a performance that feels both intimate and expansive, highlighting the songwriting strengths that have earned them growing recognition across the alternative music landscape.
Operating under the moniker HAFFWAY, Sam Westhoff has built a reputation as a multifaceted creative force. Blending cinematic folk influences, alternative soul textures, and raw storytelling, he describes his sound as “folkternative,” a style that has resonated strongly with listeners seeking authenticity and emotional connection.
Beyond his own artist project, Westhoff has become one of the industry’s most sought-after songwriters, producers, and engineers. His impressive résumé includes collaborations with major artists such as Noah Kahan, Shaboozey, Dermot Kennedy, and Matt Maeson, as well as emerging talents including Buffalo Traffic Jam, The Bends, Bo Staloch, and Josie Edwards.
His songwriting and production contributions can also be heard throughout recent releases from Noah Kahan and Dermot Kennedy, including standout tracks such as “Doors,” “Deny, Deny, Deny,” and “Paid Time Off.”
The release of “Better If Worse” follows HAFFWAY’s recent reworking of his 2023 song “East Coast (fck u la),” further showcasing his willingness to revisit and reshape his catalogue through new creative perspectives.
Fresh off his successful headline WITHER TOUR, HAFFWAY continues to build momentum as he prepares to join Matt Maeson on select upcoming tour dates while simultaneously working on new music.
With “Better If Worse,” HAFFWAY and Matt Maeson deliver a collaboration rooted in friendship, mutual admiration, and exceptional songwriting, resulting in a record that is as heartfelt as it is memorable.
