Interview: Ashley BA Music
Ashley BA Music has just released her latest single 'Just Another Day'. Following the release of 'Child-Like Faith' in 2019, Ashley's blend of soothing vocals and reflective lyrics encourages listeners to adopt an attitude of gratitude. Louder Than The Music chatted to her to find out more about her music and plans for the future.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
So my name is Ashley, I was born and grew up in East London but currently live in Bristol. Prior to moving to Bristol I have been singing in various choirs and cover bands. When I made the decision to put my own music out it seemed like the right time and season to do so. Mostly because I felt the need to express myself and my story in my own way and style. It's been an exciting journey so far with a few hurdles along the way but God has been faithful.
Tell us about your new single 'Just Another Day' and what the inspiration behind it was?
'Just Another Day' was birthed out of a tough period where I had just moved to a new city and was finding it hard to find my feet. In my mind I had so many things to complain to God about like why things weren't working out like I expected and when were things going to get better. But upon reflection I realised I actually had a lot to be thankful for. OK so things may not be perfect but I still have breath in my lungs, a roof over my head and the gift of another day. This song is basically a reminder to adopt an attitude of gratitude no matter what circumstances life may bring.
Do you have any plans for an album soon?
I would really love to put out an EP within the next year or so to showcase some of my previous releases, some remixes and some new material too.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
I would love people to take away the message of hope. I believe faith and hope go hand-in-hand. Life can throw a lot of pressure on us and give enough reason to feel hopeless. I want people to feel inspired and encouraged to trust in God and have faith and hope for better days to come.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I honestly don't think I fit into a single category! I feel I'm a mix of gospel, RnB and pop. Some of my influences include Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs, Tasha Page-Lockhart, Emeli Sande, Lexi and Jonathan McReynolds.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
That's a hard one! Would be between Emeli Sandé and Jonathan McReynolds. Both for their transparency and ability to be relatable in their lyrics, plus their use of strong metaphors in getting their message across.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
Success would be reaching a point where I can comfortably quit my day job and focus on music full time. Not that I hate my job but it can be quite demanding to focus on both at the same time.
What is your favourite album of all time?
Another hard one! It's going to have to be Emeli Sandé's "Long live the angels". I think I listened to hardly anything else for a month or so when it was first released.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
I'd probably "Look up child" by Lauren Daigle
What does the next year hold for you?
I'm definitely looking forward to putting out a few more single releases, as well as cover songs, plus getting started on my EP!
