Meet Ashley Rose Lilly of Thousand Oaks, California

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Rose Lilly.

Hi Ashley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in a small town in West Virginia. From a young age, I was surrounded by my father and grandfather’s bluegrass and folk music, and I began singing in my dad’s band. Simultaneously I also grew up watching a lot of MTV and was heavily inspired by the pop and rock music of the early 2000s, as well as developing some jazz influences. When I moved to California, I initially crossed over into pop music, and while I loved it, I have now found my way into modern country music (now with some rock fusion), where I feel more authentic than ever. I feel it pays homage to my roots and where I come from while maintaining my modern identity and varying influences. I hope to help continue the evolution and inclusivity of country music and all it can be.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any road, nothing has been a straight track, and there have certainly been bumps along the way. One of my biggest bumps regarding my music has been learning to hear my voice and not be influenced or made to feel bad by what people around me may have to say. Having a background in bluegrass and being from West Virginia, many labeled me as negative stereotypes like “hillbilly,” etc. Then crossing over into pop music, some who enjoyed the more traditional music I had been doing treated me as if I was doing something wrong, being fake, or becoming too “city.” Finally crossing over into country music, I have been able to truly hear my voice and embrace my country girl roots and the city girl I am at heart. I moved to California initially as a teen, and it has had just as much of an impact on me as my country roots; I truly feel I am both a city and country girl. I learned people will always have an opinion or something to say, so you truly have to do what makes you feel the most authentic and happy, and as cliche as it is, “let the haters hate.” Another struggle has been not to compare myself to those around me. Although I’m only 22, I feel a lot of pressure to be even farther in my career as a musician. Having that combined with growing up having everyone telling you “you can do anything you set your mind to” to a shift of “well, realistically, what’s your backup plan?” can be very disheartening. However, you have to believe in yourself and not let the doubts of others and pressures get to you. Everyone is on their timeline, and there is no straight track in the industry and life. There will always be bumps, so you have to love what you’re doing enough to not give up on it and ride the wave even when the waters are rough.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a modern country/rock music artist. I sing and write all my songs and am the proudest of my original music, especially the music I’m in the process of recording currently. The various musical influences I bring into country music sets me apart from others—specifically the rock influences with pop fusion that I’m getting into my new music. I also feel that being a country artist in the LA area does set me apart, as there certainly isn’t a ton of us. I am extra excited about my new material. It stays in the country genre, but it pushes the boundary between country and rock, especially some of the pop/rock of the early 2000s, and it’s unlike anything I’ve done thus far. It’s like a diary of my life, experiences, and where I’m at. I’ve also channeled my pain into a lot of it, but with catchy tunes and rhythms that I’ve found healing, and I hope others can too. It’s honest, raw, and unapologetic, and I can’t wait for the world to hear it.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
Two words: google calendar It has been a TOTAL life saver with my schedule with music. As an artist, I don’t have a regular 9-5, so each week looks different for me with my various musical projects and any side jobs I do as an up-and-coming artist. It’s so easy and accessible because I always have my phone on me, and I can click the date, and it will say what’s happening. I also love self-help books. My favorite is “You Are A Badass” by Jen Sincero.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ashleyroselilly?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Facebook: https://instagram.com/ashleyroselilly?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCYR2ocD6rIhDinntThWTysg
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0gJTw9ZKzXSf3JvzUTaUsI?si=f0Wwp6-URKegeJLVNkjuUg

Image Credits
Scott Praun