Libby Johnston - Ingram Road

On Rotation: Libby Johnston - Ingram Road

Libby Johnston, a New Zealand-born singer songwriter who is now based in Southern California, released an emotional new single with “Ingram Road.” The song was actually written as a gift for her mother and was released last month, just in time for Mother’s Day. Overall, this song is a warm, easy listen, that can also be a tear jerker if you’ve spent time far from family.

Afterall, what makes “Ingram Road” special is the story behind it. Since moving to the U.S. in 2018, Libby has been away from her family in New Zealand and writing this song helped her feel closer to home.

Although simple, the lyrics are the heart of “Ingram Road.” Each line focuses on love, gratitude, and a bond that knows no distance. The chorus is simple but powerful with the lines “I wanted to thank you for being so kind / For leading the way all of the time / Your grace is indescribable / There is strength in everything you do / I think of your heart and I’m grateful for you.” However, one of the most emotional lines comes in the bridge with, “We may be 10,000 miles apart, but I hold you close no matter how far.” This song is simple a reminder that even when we’re far apart, love never fades.

Sound wise, the song is soft and comforting - think “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift. Impressively, Libby recorded the vocals herself in her bedroom. However, she worked with Wolfgang Pander on the beat and longtime collaborator Santino Cardinale as co-producer. Their work perfectly keeps the production simple, yet clean, allowing the lyrics and her voice to be the most memorable part.

Listeners who enjoy music by Taylor Swift or Gracie Abrams should add this song to their playlist. It’s also the perfect backing track for a photo montage. Afterall, “Ingram Road” is like a sung personal letter to someone living across the world and a reminder that sometimes distance truly makes the heart grow fonder.