November 10, 2022 (BUFFALO, NEW YORK) – Today, rising indie-pop/folk singer-songwriter Stephen Babcock releases his sophomore album When We Were Kids Ourselves, an honest nod to how our perception of common life experiences shift as we grow older and wiser. The embracive indie-pop production by William Hinson feels like a warm hug, as Babcock’s sweet vocals float atop simple, harmonic melodies and grounding guitar arrangements over 10 captivating tracks. Be it falling in and out of love, the uncertainty life throws our way, battles with mental health or the way we interact with one another (especially post-covid and in the age of the internet), Babcock’s succinct lyricism tells crystal-clear stories that any listener will find home in, opening his heart to all who enter his sonic world.
On the inspiration behind When We Were Kids Ourselves, Babcock explains, “This album is about the journey and growth experiences post ‘growing up’. It's so easy to feel isolated when you're taking on something challenging in life, and we tend to normalize the idea that in adult life, we’re supposed to have it all figured out by now. I hope my music serves as a bastion for people experiencing challenging emotions, and I hope my voice can help those struggling to find the words they’re looking for in their own life.”
The “Internet Dad” – Babcock’s fan-given moniker – was born from his relatable pop music and consistent fan engagement, especially amidst the depths of the pandemic’s lockdown. He holds an impressive list of shows under his belt, traveling up and down the East coast opening for artists including Ed Sheeran, Izaak Opatz, Canyon City, William Hinson and Girl Blue to name a few.
When We Were Kids Ourselves consists of fan-favorites “Worst Ways,” “Still Think Of You,” “All I Can Do,” “Internet Friends,” I Just Can’t,” “Meant For Me,” and “Battle.” It is made complete with the album’s focus track “Heart Off,” an all-encompassing, grand pop ballad about finding your way out of a relationship, “January 3rd,” and “The Diner.”
Babcock recently embarked on his North American tour run in support of When We Were Kids Ourselves, which kicked off in his hometown of Buffalo, New York, and will end on November 11th at the famous Bluebird Cafe in Nashville.
2022 gifted listeners with an exciting taste of the full-length effort, leaving fans eager to delve into the entirety of When We Were Kids Ourselves. The grand endeavor sees Babcock hitting his musical stride, while coming into his own as both a writer and musician, solidifying his place as a stand-out in the indie- pop/folk realm.
Watch the When We Were Kids Ourselves track-by-track explainer video here.