Check out our interview with indie-pop artist Ashley Elle who just released her new single “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy”. Venturing beyond the ordinary bounds of lyricism, the track reaches an unparalleled level of emotional connection. Ashley Elle takes listeners on a vulnerable melodic journey, exploring the desire for respite from the overwhelming grip of anxiety and depression while maneuvering through life’s trials and tribulations.
“’Heavy, Heavy, Heavy’ is a song about struggling with the complexities of life. I wrote it at a time when I felt so much pressure and responsibility trying to deal with growing up and the challenges we face.” -Ashley Elle
Follow Ashley @aashleyelle
Hi Ashley, please tell us a little about you.
Hi! I’m Ashley Elle! I am from a small town in Wisconsin but have been living out in Los Angeles working on my music and attending Loyola Marymount University for the past three years. I have always loved music and it has been my biggest dream. It wasn’t until I was 14 or 15 that I started writing my own songs and getting super serious about it. The past few years since being out here I have been writing and collaborating with others as much as I can. I am so eager to continue to put out music this year!
Describe your sound in 3 words.
Honest, warm, and emotional!
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Growing up I was a die-hard Taylor Swift fan (like us all). I remember I begged my parents to put me in piano lessons so I could learn to play Taylor Swift songs. I think just growing up and waiting for her to drop an album during every Fall season got me so fascinated by her lyricism. I think Taylor and her ability to story tell with her lyrics is what really inspired me to want to do the same.
Do you play any instruments?
Yes! Piano and guitar!
Tell us about your new single “Heavy, Heavy, Heavy?”
“Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” was written the day I got home from studying abroad in London. Although I made some of the fondest memories, being away from home in foreign countries was a lot on my mental health. I started this song and brought it to my friend and producer, Cazz Brindis. Cazz helped me write the rest of the song and really brought it to life with the production!
What’s the story behind the song?
“Heavy, Heavy, Heavy” is a song about dealing with the struggles of growing up. I have dealt with anxiety and depression at times, and I wrote this song when I was feeling all of those feelings!
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my work is when I hear or see people singing my lyrics. That moment really puts it into perspective that others can relate to my music. I also find it so rewarding when I get the track back for the first time with the final vocals. Hearing my songs come to life for the first time just sitting alone in my bedroom is honestly such a special and rewarding moment for me!
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I think I would tell my younger self (and current self at times) to really just do what makes you happy. It’s so hard not to compare yourself to others or worry about what they will think of you. I think this held me back from sharing my music sooner. I really just get in my own head about things, and I dislike that about myself!
How would your best friend describe you?
Oooh this is hard. I would hope they would say words like genuine, goofy, and loving! All things I strive to be!
What’s next for Ashley Elle in 2023?
I am going to be releasing singles consistently this year and then hopefully in the fall of 2023, I can put out my first-ever EP! I’m also hoping I can play some shows this year!
What is your own definition of happiness?
I don’t think happiness has to be a state or a feeling that only exists on its own. I think one can be genuinely happy, experiencing positive feelings, while also battling hardships as they come and go. Happiness for me is remembering how grateful and blessed I am even on my hardest days and trying to shift my focus to those blessings. I think happiness lies within the little things we do each day that lead us to a fulfilled life!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
There are so many living and dead influential artists that I would love to meet and have a conversation with. I would love to meet Taylor Swift or Gracie Abrams just because they both inspire me so so much!
What would be your dream holiday, and who would you go with?
Probably somewhere warm and tropical and I would definitely bring my sister, Maddy! She still lives in Wisconsin, but when we are together, we are glued to the hip!
Best advice ever given?
I try to remind myself often to not take life too seriously. Easier said than done, but with entering my 20s and just growing up, I have been putting so much pressure on myself. I try to tell myself that sometimes things aren’t that deep and that I can overcome anything.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
I have many favorites but one of them is “Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye
Where can we follow you on social media?
You can follow me @aashleyelle on Instagram, @ashleyelle on TikTok, and on my website at AshleyElleMusic.com!
FAVORITES:
Book: any romance book- I’m currently reading one by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Movie: I honestly am not a movie person! I much rather watch shows!
TV Series: One Tree Hill or The Carrie Diaries
Favorite Food: Strawberries
Travel Destination: Amsterdam!
Sports Team: Milwaukee Bucks is probably the only sport you will see me watching haha
