A deeply personal reflection on her childhood, Libby Johnston‘s new track, Ingram Road, is an audible Mother’s Day present for her mum, one which we can all enjoy.
By Graeme Smith
A song for one’s mother can sometimes come across a little overly corny, but, when done well, can prove a popular triumph (think The Spice Girls’ Mama.) So, how does Johnston’s Mother’s Day tribute fare?
Ingram Road is rich with storytelling and has an attention to detail that paints a vivid picture. Its nostalgia is bittersweet, showing the light and the dark of her memories. Johnston’s vocals elevate everything. They’re characterful, charismatic and full of authentic emotion. Familial bonds hold it all together, as does an arrangement that has plenty of ethereal vocals and a gentle folk pop instrumental. A soaring chorus proves memorable, punctuating the track’s story.
“It’s inception and creation was kept a secret from her until the week before when I announced the song on social media,” Johnston says. “I hope this song resonates with people as they celebrate their mothers and mother figures, and can take a moment to reflect on how special their relationships are, and how powerful their unconditional love is.”
It’s a strong effort from an artist who first graced our pages in March 2024. At that time, I was taken with her debut EP, Libby, which I described as “familiar and accessible” with “a unique voice and approach to song writing.” I could just have easily been describing Ingram Road. I said she was one to keep an eye on, and so far that’s proving true.
The Auckland, New Zealand-raised Johnston takes inspiration from contemporary pop acts like Taylor Swift, Lucy Dacus and Gracie Abrams, using that inspiration to make her own brand of pop that’s personal yet welcoming. “I’m in awe of how these artists meld storytelling and melody to resonate with listeners; making them feel moved and heard by their music,” she says. “Each of these artists have such an accessible sound, and it’s always my intention to tap into that as I want to connect with as many people as possible.”
Her new track is a heartfelt wonder that reminds us that our family are always there for us, even if there is physical space between us.
“Writing and releasing this song has been such a cathartic experience as my family are all in New Zealand but I left home in 2018 to pursue my career as a performer, and have lived in the USA ever since,” she says. “Being able to reflect on my childhood memories with my loved ones and feel close to home even though I’m separated by thousands of miles was incredibly significant, and I think you can feel that spark in this song.”
Ingram Road was engineered by Johnston in her bedroom and was a collaboration with Wolfgang Pander (who also worked on Libby) and Santino Cardinale who was co-producer. It’s out now and you can give it a listen below.
