Ingrid Andress burst onto the country music scene with a refreshing honesty and vulnerability, and her debut single, “Lady Like,” perfectly encapsulates this. More than just a catchy tune, the song delves into Ingrid’s personal journey of self-acceptance and challenges traditional gender stereotypes. This exploration of individuality within societal expectations is a recurring theme in Ingrid Andress Songs, making “Lady Like” a powerful introduction to her artistry.
The Genesis of “Lady Like”: Finding Authenticity in Nashville
The story behind “Lady Like” is deeply personal to Andress. She conceived the idea before even entering the studio on the day it was written. Collaborating with Derrick Southerland and Sam Ellis, in a relaxed and creative atmosphere, Andress articulated a sentiment that had been weighing on her mind.
I had the concept in my head before I went into the studio that day. I wrote it with Derrick Southerland and Sam Ellis, who are good friends of mine, and we just kinda shoot the s–t and drink and write when we feel like it. So I walked in that day, and I was like, “I really wanna write this today.” Because it had really been on my mind.
Andress’ upbringing in Colorado fostered a sense of freedom and individuality, where gender roles were not rigidly defined. This contrasted sharply with her experience after moving to Nashville, where she encountered more traditional expectations.
I have always been trying to fit into a certain gender stereotype that we all kind of believe we have to fit into. I feel like it’s really strong in the South. I’m from Colorado, and I grew up really being able to do whatever I wanted — like, my parents never really put a gender thing on us. I would play street hockey and then come home and do science experiments on my Barbie dolls, you know? No one ever said, “You’re a girl, so you have to do this.”
This cultural shift led to frustration as Andress felt pressure to conform to stereotypical “feminine” activities, a stark contrast to her upbringing and personal inclinations.
So when I moved to Nashville, all of a sudden, it was, like, guy time and girl time. And I was like, “Why can’t we all go fishing together?” “Well, because that’s what the guys do.” So I got really frustrated. And I tried to fit in, tried to go shopping and whatever, and it just wasn’t working.
“Lady Like” emerged as a powerful statement of self-acceptance, a declaration of embracing her true self rather than adhering to societal molds.
This song was written out of the final moment of self-acceptance — like, I’m just gonna own who I am. I feel like a woman.
“Lady Like” as a Defining Ingrid Andress Song
For Ingrid Andress, “Lady Like” serves as an authentic introduction to her identity as an artist. She believes the song provides listeners with a clear understanding of her values and personality.
I think, after one listen, you know exactly who I am. I would wanna hang out with me after hearing that song. I would be like, “Oh, okay, this chick, I get what she’s about. I get who she is.”
Initially, Andress perceived the song’s message as deeply personal and specific to her own experiences. However, the widespread resonance of “Lady Like” surprised and moved her, highlighting its universal themes of self-acceptance and challenging expectations.
What’s crazy is that I thought it was very specific to me, but a lot of people come up to me after I sing that song, being like, “I totally relate to that.” And it’s people of all different kinds. Even guys come up to me like, “I’m a lady like that!” I’m like, “You aaaare!” It’s really awesome, because, technically, you can do whatever the f–k you want.
The broad appeal of “Lady Like” underscores a central tenet in Ingrid Andress’ music: the celebration of individuality and the freedom to define oneself outside of limiting stereotypes. This makes “Lady Like” not just a personal anthem for Ingrid Andress, but a relatable and empowering song for a diverse audience.
Explore More Ingrid Andress Songs
“Lady Like” is just the beginning of Ingrid Andress’ compelling discography. Her other songs further explore themes of vulnerability, honesty, and self-discovery, solidifying her place as a unique and impactful voice in contemporary country music.
