London singer-songwriter explores identity, self-acceptance and life after an ADHD diagnosis on new record
London, Ont.-based singer-songwriter Stephen Ingram has released “Sour Candy,” the first single from his forthcoming sophomore album, Silly Things, scheduled for release on Sept. 25. The new track introduces a deeply personal collection of songs that examines personal growth, self-discovery and the realities of adulthood through the lens of Ingram’s experiences in Southwestern Ontario.
The release marks the next chapter for the Hamilton-born artist, whose debut album, Fridge Magnet Symphony, established him as a thoughtful storyteller with a strong connection to Canadian folk traditions. With Silly Things, Ingram expands that approach, drawing on recent life experiences and a greater understanding of himself to create a record rooted in reflection, resilience and optimism.
A Song About Growing Into Yourself
“Sour Candy” emerged from a period of transition as Ingram moved from his twenties into his thirties and began reassessing how he related to the people around him. The song centres on the realization that personal growth often requires letting go of the need to satisfy everyone else’s expectations.
Rather than presenting that change as a negative development, the track frames it as an important step toward authenticity and healthier relationships. Through its central metaphor, the song suggests that accepting one’s imperfections can ultimately lead to greater happiness and stronger personal connections.
The single also carries a romantic dimension. Like many songs in Ingram’s catalogue, “Sour Candy” serves as a tribute to his wife, exploring how embracing his true identity has strengthened their relationship over time.
The song captures those themes through playful and self-aware lyrics, including lines such as “Used to be so sweet ’til I turned sour” and the recurring refrain “Sour candy, taste it on me.” Together, they reflect on aging, anxiety, shifting priorities and the challenges of navigating adulthood while maintaining a sense of humour.
An Album Inspired by Self-Discovery
The themes explored in “Sour Candy” extend throughout Silly Things, an album Ingram began writing shortly after receiving an ADHD diagnosis.
The diagnosis prompted the songwriter to revisit significant moments, relationships and experiences from his past with a new perspective. Rather than focusing on misconceptions surrounding ADHD, Ingram uses the album to highlight both its challenges and the creativity it can inspire.
That balance between struggle and optimism forms a consistent thread throughout the project. While many of the songs address uncertainty, conflict and personal change, they ultimately move toward acceptance and understanding.
The result is a record that seeks to celebrate individuality while offering an honest account of the complexities that accompany personal growth.
A Stronger Folk Sound Anchored in Southwestern Ontario
Recorded entirely in London, Ontario, Silly Things represents a musical evolution for Ingram. While maintaining the narrative-driven songwriting that characterized his debut, the new album leans more heavily into folk influences and acoustic arrangements.
To bring the project to life, Ingram assembled a group of prominent London-area musicians, including cellist Anna Grigg, violinist and mandolin player Jesse Grandmont, guitarist Peter Karle, bassist Aidan Wasse and percussionist Mark Swan.
The album was co-produced by Ingram and Dean Nelson, with Nelson also handling mixing duties. Mastering was completed by Kristian Montano.
The collaborative approach gives the record a rich, organic sound while allowing space for Ingram’s lyrics and storytelling to remain at the forefront.
Local Roots Shape the Music
Ingram’s connection to Southwestern Ontario plays a significant role in the album’s identity.
After relocating from Hamilton to London more than a decade ago to study at Western University’s Don Wright Faculty of Music, he built a career in live theatre, an experience that continues to influence his songwriting. His background in theatre has strengthened his focus on narrative, character and emotional development within his music.
Those qualities have drawn comparisons to celebrated Canadian songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot and Joel Plaskett.
Throughout Silly Things, references to places, experiences and communities in Southwestern Ontario help establish a strong sense of place while reinforcing themes that resonate far beyond the region.
Touring Across Ontario
With “Sour Candy” now available and Silly Things set for release this fall, Ingram will spend the summer performing across Ontario before returning to London for an album release show in September.
Upcoming Tour Dates
- July 28 – The Aeolian Hall, London, Ontario
- July 31 – The Bunker, Stratford, Ontario
- August 21 – Cornerstone Cafe, Guelph, Ontario
- August 28 – Burdock Brewing, Toronto, Ontario
- September 26 – XUUX Artists, London, Ontario
The tour will provide audiences with an early opportunity to hear material from Silly Things, a record that positions Ingram’s personal journey as a broader reflection on identity, acceptance and the value of embracing life’s imperfections.