Page 41 - ION Indie Magazine JanFeb 2021 Issue

MH: I’m almost sure that 6 years ago, your musical taste and influences where different
compared to your likes now…or maybe not? Please tell us who your musical influences
are today.

AW: I've always had a love for older, classic country music, but I find myself these days
listening to it more than I did when I was younger! I love to study women throughout different
eras of country music. I'll go through artists such as Loretta Lynn…to Pam Tillis, Patty
Loveless, Mary Chaplin-Carpenter, Martina McBride, and so on, and listen to what they've
done. I've found so much inspiration from their music when it comes to songwriting and how
they sing certain phrases and such. There's so much to be learned and to be inspired by from
the work that these ladies who came before me have done.

MH: Throughout the years, you have performed with some of the greatest artists in
country music. Are there one or two artists with which you would like to share the
stage?

AW: You are really making me whittle my list down! I could go on for days, but to keep it short,
I would love to share a stage one day with an artist such as Carrie Underwood. I've learned so
much from watching her perform over the years and would love the chance to match her
energy on stage together. I'd also be honored to perform with an act like Lee Greenwood,
someone with so much musical talent and so much history in the industry. It would be
incredible to sing alongside artists such as these.

MH: Ashley, what advice would you give other artist following your footsteps?

AW: I would offer the true words of, ‘It is not going to be easy…ever.’ I don't say that to terrify
people away from participating in the industry, but rather as a way of reminding them that if
you really love your art and you really want to do this as a full time career, know that you will
have to fight for it. You have to stand firm against those that will try to dissuade you and try to
lessen your worth. You also have to work really hard to make art that connects with people
and to get your art to them. The life as an independent artist is not easy. You have to start from
ground zero. However, my other pieces of advice are to be kind to everyone you meet. You
never know whose path you may cross, and they might just end up helping you on your way.
Also, educate yourself. The internet is your friend! Study the industry, study business, study
music theory -- all the things that you will need to make yourself successful! As an independent
artist, having to manage all aspects of your career yourself can be either a hindrance or
something exciting. Be a person who stays true to your convictions and you will find a lot of
happiness and success on your way.

MH: What has been the biggest obstacle for you as a country artist?

AW: Though it is evolving more, there is a stigma that country audiences do not want to listen
to or watch female country artists. You can see that belief in the ratio of women to men who
are played on country radio, in festival/concert line ups, and at awards shows. It's been hard
at times for me to get my foot in the door in some places or situations in order to show people,
‘Hey! I am a good performer, I write good music, and people want to hear and see me!’ As I
mentioned, it is improving, however, there is still a lot of work to do in that area still.