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Ramblerman

Bio:

Ramblerman is the creative moniker of Canberra-based songwriter Stephen Dobson—a visual artist and designer turned genre-blending songwriter. With a background in architecture and a restless creative spirit, Stephen brings a designer’s approach and a storyteller’s heart to every song he writes.

Drawn to music as both craft and catharsis, as ‘Ramblerman’ Stephen enjoys the process of taking loose ideas and vulnerable emotions, and, through process, allowing each song to develop in its own unique way. A broad listener—pulling inspiration from folk, country, soul, indie, and pop, his sound is both diverse and changing, while always centred on lyrical vulnerability, simple directness and emotional clarity.

From his home studio in Canberra, Stephen teaches guitar and songwriting, passionate about helping others discover their own voice and confidence through music.

Musical Inspirations:

Sam Beam (Iron and Wine), Bill Callahan, Hiss Golden Messenger, Michael Stipe, Justin Townes Earle, Tupac Shakur, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan, The Smiths, The Eels, Big Thief, Wade Forster, Billly Bragg, Vampire Weekend, Michael Kiwanka, Joe Strummer, Tim Freedman, Tom Waits, Nina Simone, Allan Caswell, Loren, Hozier, The Smiths, Gareth Liddiard, Joe Pugg, Conor Oberst, Benjamin Clementine

RELEASES:

‘I Got Love’ (Single) - 22nd June 2024

“Ramblerman, AKA Stephen Dobson, is an Aussie singer-songwriter based in Canberra. He’s set to release his debut album in the near future, and has just released the first single from the album, which you’ll hear next, titled, I Got Love. I really like this because it appeals to such a broad audience; it’s country enough for country fans, it's indie enough for indie fans, and it's pop enough for pop fans.”
- LACEY WALKER - CROW FM 90.7

‘Bridge Builder’ (Single) - 12th August 2024

“Canberra-based songwriter Ramblerman is back with his follow-up single, "Bridge Builder," following the success of his debut track, "I Got Love." Where his debut was a lively mix of pop, surf, and country— described by CrowFM's Lacey Walker as “country enough for country fans, indie enough for indie fans, and pop enough for pop fans” — his new release takes a more introspective turn.
"Bridge Builder" leans toward country rock while retaining the upbeat essence of its predecessor, exploring deeper themes of personal struggle and introspection. Ramblerman draws on the catchy, repetitive structures of jingles, notably inspired by the endlessly looping “The Song That Doesn’t End” from the ‘90s show Lamb Chop’s Play-Along. Ramblerman channels the charm of such jingles while creating a serious and contemplative narrative.
As he gears up for his debut album next year, "Bridge Builder" hints at an exciting range of his music and approach, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting and compelling release.”
- STUART COUPE PRESENTS - RHYTHMS MAGAZINE

‘Lemonade’ (Single) [CHARITY RELEASE] - 8th August 2025
Lemonade is a song I’d almost convinced myself I wouldn’t release. One of a number of songs written during a long period of depression ‘Lemonade’ represents a time of my life that I’ve tried very hard to move beyond. It was only with the encouragement of Guy Lilleyman at Amberly Studios that I came to change my perspective toward the song and gradually come around to the idea that the best way to move on from a feeling is to bring it out into the light.
At its core, Lemonade is about the relentless cycle of rumination and self-talk that comes along with depression, the repetition of thought and the desperate yearning for change. I hope people will also see that it’s a song about persistence, resilience and finding strength through pain.
Proceeds from the song will go to Beyond Blue and The Black Dog Institute—two incredible organisations that provide vital services for people struggling with depression and anxiety.
Debut EP : 2026