March 29, 2024

Ashlyn Grace 5.22.17 © Moments By Moser Photography

Photo Credit: Bev Moser

Your new EP, “Somethin’ Bout A Song” has gotten an amazing reaction from your supporters. What has been your thought about the reaction of the album?

Yes! It makes me so happy to know that people like my music and are able to relate to it. As an artist and a writer, you always hope that will be the case but until you put it out there, you never know so this is super-exciting!

What was your reaction when you learned that your EP debuted at #4 on iTunes Singer-Songwriter Chart and Bestseller list?

I was so excited and surprised!  I definitely was not expecting that and to see my name on the charts with superstars that I have grown up listening to was surreal and a dream come true.

How did the idea for this album come about?

I had been planning on releasing an EP for a while and had been writing songs for it all along. When I came up with these 6 songs, I knew I finally had my project because these songs really stood out to me as my favorites and truly reflect who I am and the journey I have been on the past year or so.  

Can you tell us the meaning behind the name “Somethin’ Bout A Song” ?

Of course! I went into a co-write with the idea of how a song has the power to take you back to a moment in time and to feel all those feelings that you actually felt in that very moment so that is how the song came about. Then, as we were completing the project, it hit me that this should be the title track because it ties everything together. Since the EP is all all about the songs, it seemed only natural to title the EP “Somethin’ Bout A Song!”

Any fun moments while creating the album?

Oh, yes! It is always fun going into the studio. It is always magical creating the music and with friends but the most fun part for me without a doubt is the moment that I got my mixes back! Getting to hear everything that I envisioned and hear all my songs come to life with all of the instruments, vocals, bgvs and everything is just such a special moment. I can’t even begin to put into words how exciting that is!

You write your own music, so what’s the process of writing one of your songs?

It really just depends. Sometimes I start off with a hook and other times with the music/melodies.Then, other times I will have some of the lyrics written out and begin with that. It also makes a huge difference with the process if I am writing alone or with co-writers because with co-writers, it’s a collaborative effort and you bounce ideas off of one another rather than it being all up to you. No matter what though, I love writing alone and with others.

What’s been your favorite song to write and why?

“601” was definitely my favorite song to write so far because it means so much to me and really came from the heart. My family and I had recently moved from my childhood home, the only house I ever lived in. After I moved, I learned that it was going to be torn down. To make matters worse, I happened to drive by and saw the demolition taking place. It affected me more than I could’ve ever imagined so I went home, literally sitting on the floor crying and writing at the same time. The lyrics just came out as fast as I could write and I had the song completed in about 30 minutes. Knowing how personal this song is, I questioned if I should put it on the EP and so many people have said that it is their favorite song and I have even had several people come up to me and say how much they appreciated the song because they had been through similar circumstances.

What song are you most looking forward to perform live from this EP?

“Kept the Texts” without a doubt is my favorite song to perform live from the EP. It is such a fun and unique song and it definitely it shows a different and more sassy side of me that most of my other songs don’t show!

What feeling do you get when performing in front of your supporters?

I always feel both excited and grateful when performing because I know that people are there to see me because they want to be. It also means that they in some way understand me and feel a connection with my music which makes me very happy!

Does your fanbase have a name?

Not quite yet but we have some cool ideas in the works!                                                                                

How do you want your relationship to be with your supporters?

I always want to be very approachable and closely connected with my fans. I have always been so impressed how artists like Taylor Swift and Kelsea Ballerini are so in touch with their fans and I want to be known for that as well. For making my supporters feel special and appreciated. They are the ones who enable me to do this and I want to give back!

What was the craziest fan encounter you have had?

Several years ago, I was asked to headline a show which was taking place at a local elementary school. The school promoted me and my show and when I arrived, there were a bunch of elementary students all lined up screaming for me.  I went inside to go over a few things with my band and they followed me back and were all piled high looking through that long narrow rectangular glass window of the classroom door chanting my name and banging so hard that my band had to go over there and keep it all under control. Young girls were even crying! It was so insane! I signed autographs and posed for pictures for hours. That whole night was definitely one I will never forget. So much fun!

What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your supporters?

Definitely, Instagram. It’s for sure my favorite! Although I do also stay connected with Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat too!

What’s an average day for you look like?

Luckily, I just graduated from college so I am done with homework and studying which took a great deal of my time. I always try to get up early and work out at the YMCA or go for a run, then I typically go to a writing session (or write by myself), work (my other passion is children so I work with children of all ages) or practice for upcoming shows. I also make time to do regular posts and engage with my supporters. Then I am also engaged and always allow time for my fiance, my family and my friends who all mean so much to me!

What goals have you set out for yourself in your career and in your personal life?

I strive to write several times a week (alone or with others), practice music and post regularly. I want to continue to grow both as an artist and a songwriter and keep working on that as my main goal. I also want to be able to make a difference in the lives of others with the power of my music and any success I may achieve. That is very important to me, as well as being a role model for young people. Also, maintaining a balanced life with friends and family is a priority.

How has this whole music career experience been?

Just like anything we all do, there have been ups and downs (and I know there will continue to be) but I love what I do and focus on that.  I am very blessed and and the pros far out weight the cons in my music career. My family and friends are all so supportive and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. This is what I was called to do and I couldn’t be happier!

Do you have any last things you want to tell your supporters?

I absolutely love hearing from all of my fans and answer every message that comes in to me. I would love for everyone who reads this to follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter if you have not already and let me hear from you!  Also, please visit my website at www.ashlyngrayce.com for the latest news, shows, etc. If you have not yet had the opportunity to check out my music, it is for sale on Apple Music, Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and many other retail outlets as well as through my website where physical copies can also be purchased!

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview with me.

Thank you so much for the opportunity, Ainsley! I appreciate it SO much!!!  Ashlyn : )

 

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