Out Now Magazine Spotlight series featuring AZSH for an exclusive interview
My artist name is AZSH, (pronounced just like Ash). My real name is Ashley, and my friend and I chose this unique spelling because no one else was using it. I’m a singer-songwriter and I live in Miami Beach, where I’ve been performing for several years. I write mostly Pop music that’s catchy and feel-good. I also love dance music, so I like to incorporate that energy into my work. I’ve recorded about 100 original songs and have just begun releasing it since the pandemic started in 2020.
Where are you from?
I grew up in “Kentuckiana,” on the Indiana side of Louisville, KY, and moved to Miami in 2013.
When did you start making music?
If you don’t count my failed attempts to write songs inspired by the Spice Girls at the age of 9, I truly started in 2007, when I was given an opportunity to record in place of a famous artist who didn’t show up to an expected collaboration. I just happened to be around and having grown up singing in choirs and with musician parents, I confidently volunteered to fill her position.
That was my first day in a recording studio and I wrote to the track they gave me in about 20 minutes. I proceeded to record my lyrics and add harmonies, and no one could believe it was my first time doing this. I was blown away by how amazing it felt to create music and to hear back all my layered harmonies and new piece of art coming to life. I couldn’t stop after that and was constantly looking for opportunities to work with producers or write and record songs to tracks I could find.
What is your music about?
In the beginning I wrote a lot about relationships and heart break experiences. My life experiences have taught me so much, that my songwriting has evolved. I like to keep my song content positive and uplifting. I like to write about my experiences in ways that encourage or energize the listener in relatable ways. My newest single “Mood” is about the excitement of a new love interest, relishing in the good feels of another person without the distractions of the world in our cell phones.
What are your goals for the future?
I would like to keep releasing music consistently and contribute to the soundtracks of people lives in all their different seasons. My goal is to have my music be featured in playlists and radio, with commercial brands that have positive messaging, and performed at concerts and festivals.
What advice can you give for the young artists?
The best thing you can do for yourself is take care of yourself. Make sure you have your health and happiness while you are pursing your dreams, so that you can sustain yourself until your music can sustain you. Don’t settle for anything less than an optimal situation – i.e. contracts or unfair deals. Improve your skills and surround yourself with great people who inspire you and help you be the best version of yourself. Learn, learn, learn. Be humble and have a positive attitude. Be gracious, respectful, and kind to others. Don’t quit. Understand it’s a process and a journey, not a destination. Just grow! Share what you’re doing. People will grow alongside you, even if it starts with just 1 follower.
Please write a message to your fans.
Hello! I love you! I hope you will get to hear the next few singles I have planned for you, and they will encourage you like they encourage me! I share my life with you using music as a vehicle. I will continue doing this as long as I can. Thank you for sharing and supporting this music and the mission of health and happiness I desire for each of us!
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