Having introduced himself to us in the early ’10s as the singer, guitarist, and principal songwriter of Windang power pair Hockey Dad, Stephenson has already managed to carve out a career that most musicians could only dream of.

With multiple headline tours both at home and abroad, numerous top ten albums, and repeated placings in triple j’s Hottest 100 countdown, 2026 brought with it a new musical focus for Stephenson, as he put his head down to embark on a new creative chapter as a solo artist.

Determined to retain the melodic instincts and memorable songwriting that has defined his career, Stephenson’s debut LP – the genre-defying I Needed To Hear Me Say It – is a record which expands into broader musical territory, embracing richer arrangements, quieter moments, and ultimately, a more reflective approach to storytelling.

Harnessing inspiration and influence from artists such as Nick Lowe and his timeless songwriting, New Radicals and their infectious hooks, and The Last Shadow Puppets’ cinematic scope, I Needed To Hear Me Say It is an exploration into growth, self-reflection, and how perspective can change after myriad years spent as a touring artist, writing hits while navigating life on the road.

Operating with a sense of autonomy, freedom, and a goal to reflect his kaleidoscopic musical appetite, Stephenson’s songwriting shifts between genres as it stays grounded through his unmistakable voice and undeniable sense of melody.