Page 39 - ION Indie Magazine JanFeb 2021 Issue

MH: And if you don’t mind me sharing this, that song is off your upcoming album
‘I’m Gonna Ride,’ which will be released in 2021. Can you tell us a little bit about the
songs on the album? Is there any song that you favor more than the others off your
new album, or are they like children, all with different personalities but with the
same kind of love?

AW: When my fans get the chance to listen to the album, they will notice a strong theme
about finding your way, standing up for yourself, and tapping into that power wheelhouse
you've always had. The album was definitely written during a time in my life where I was
doing a lot of that soul-searching, and it truly comes out in the music. There's a lot of fun
to be had within many of the songs and I think some will evoke some good laughs and get
some toes tapping. But there is a sense of resolve and reflection that is on this album as
well. As for favorites, I know you're probably not supposed to, but I do have one. The title-
track ‘I'm Gonna Ride’ really rings true with me. I find that to be my power-up song. I hope
everyone can find a song that fuels them on this album!

MH: Ashley, what I’ve learned in my music journey throughout the years is that
every genre of music eventually gets divided into a new sub-genre. The same goes
with country music. In saying that, my personal opinion is that I see you at my
favorite country genre, which is classic country with a hint of pop. What style of
country music do you feel that you are personally embracing?

AW: I would say that you've definitely nailed it on the head with classifying where my music
is at. My soul loves classic country music. The sounds of real musicians playing
instruments like fiddle, twangy guitars, and banjos, makes me so excited when I'm putting
my music together. I love the storytelling elements of classic country and include that style
of writing in my music as well. However, I am young, so I do have some modern influences
in my music. I like to believe that the heart of my music is true country and I hope my fans
connect with that.

MH: Do you have a specific writing process? How do you get inspired to write
songs? Does a melody pop in your head, or do the words pop out of your mouth
first?

AW: It truly depends on the day! In my early days of writing, I was strictly lyrics first, music
later. However, as I've grown with my instruments and musicality, I find that even exploring
my instruments for fun can often times lead to inspiration for a new song. Inspiration for
me comes from various places. Sometimes, it is personal, other times, I find a progression
that I love and write off of whatever comes into my head, first. There are also times where
I write about others and the world around me. I want my music to be relatable, so I try not
to give myself borders when it comes to finding inspiration.