Bebe Stockwell’s ‘Driving Backwards’: A Reflective and Honest Debut EP

Bebe Stockwell’s debut EP, ‘Driving Backwards,’ released on May 9th via Columbia Records, introduces her as a diaristic and emotionally nuanced songwriter. Drawing inspiration from classic singer-songwriters of the 1970s, Stockwell blends influences from artists like Carly Simon, Bob Dylan, and Norah Jones, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. The EP explores themes of memory, reflection, and personal growth, with Stockwell aiming to honor the past without becoming trapped by it.

The opening track, ‘Minor Inconveniences,’ sets the tone with its candid, humorous take on life’s small struggles, while ‘Ruined’ delivers a succinct and pointed breakup anthem. The title track, a duet with Chance Emerson, celebrates the comfort and joy found in building a life with someone, contrasting the heartbreak of previous songs. The closing song, ‘Live Forever,’ stands out as a pure, unrequited love song, inspired by Stockwell’s personal experiences and cinematic influences.

Throughout the EP, Stockwell’s writing is intimate and relatable, often evoking the feeling of sharing stories with a close friend. Her approach to production emphasizes authenticity and organic sound, reflecting her desire to stay true to her artistic vision. ‘Driving Backwards’ is ultimately a celebration of legacy, family, and the spaces where we grow, marking Stockwell as an emerging artist to watch in the music scene.