Daily Inspiration: Meet Ally Free

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ally Free.

Hi Ally, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My musical journey began at 15 when I picked up a guitar, learning initially through lessons and later by ear to complement my singing.  Originally from Huntsville, AL, I started performing at local coffee shops and outdoor venues, eventually expanding to bars, restaurants, and regional music festivals. In 2019, I launched my debut album “Rise” featuring original Americana tracks that fuse rock, country, and folk influences.  Inspired by and now as a member of a Nashville based organization The Black Opry in early 2023, I transitioned to larger venues, leaving my career as a Correctional Officer to pursue music full-time.  The music I create, a personal sanctuary, shares my journey and connects deeply with listeners who resonate with storytelling through song. In addition to my solo projects, I am also presently apart of a duo called The Allies with Aaron Stapler, which I feel has enabled me to truly hone my sound.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well lol my road has had some hazard signs, potholes, and its share of cracks. However, everything I’ve been through and that has tried to chip away at my foundation, has only turned things in my life into perfect little imperfections. I’ve dealt with addiction, the visceral pain of grief and loss, mental health, you name it. But I feel like that’s enabled me to see the world clearer and made my music become a safe space for others that want to/need to feel seen or heard.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Corrections Officer and cage fighter turned singer/songwriter. I’ve always had a passion for helping others in some form or another. My aspiration is that my music and lyrics will resonate with others as it has within my own life.  With music being the universal language, I hope my own language of music and expression will be forever imprinted on others in the best way. At the majority of my shows I’ve had people come up to hug me and tell me they were affected in one way or another by my performance. I think the thing I’m proud of most is that there’s always been something to take away from my shows, which in turn has kind of healed my own inner child in ways.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Random enough, my favorite childhood memory are the times spent with my mom going on trips or being at home listening to records dancing in her bedroom. My mom has always encouraged my artistry, being an artist herself. My mom also taught me a lot about vigilance and resilience, which I learned at a young age and from her own strength and the genuine love she has for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://allyfreemusic.com/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allywaytobefree?igsh=MXE0OTdrbG5veG9waQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allyson.freeman.10?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@AllyFree?si=9BSONMy7OsWPC1Yp
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@allyfree?_t=8rGmfC2ubUs&_r=1