Ashny is a talented Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who has taken the music scene by storm. With her unique voice, captivating stage presence, and infectious energy, Ashny has established herself as one of Nigeria’s most exciting new acts.
Known for her versatility and genre-bending sound, Ashny has released a string of hit singles, including “FE MI”, “Middle Of Something”, “Gbamigbo”, “Irawo”, “Volup”, and “Ara”. Her music blends elements of pop, Afrobeat, and R&B, showcasing her creativity and artistic range.
Let’s start with your background and Inspiration Ashny, what inspired you to become a musical artist?
I started out playfully in small family gatherings and church circles and I used to sing a lot whilst handling my fish business at Ijora 7up market. My sister noticed and decided to encourage me further.
Just like every other person, who are your biggest musical influence?
Beyoncé has always been my greatest influence.
Let’s talk about your music genre, how would you describe your music genre?
My mood is my music however I fall into the Pop genre. The way I feel is how I orchestrate my music.
What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your music?
I try to make sense of the world around me. So I write songs that are honest, raw, and sometimes vulnerable, because I believe that’s where true connection happens. Whether it’s exploring struggles with self-doubt, or moments of triumph, I want listeners to feel that they’re not alone in their experiences.
Can you walk us through your songwriting process?
I just grab my thoughts and put them in a melody. Whatever around me gets my attention is enough inspiration to write about. I just go as the spirit leads and the soul delivers.
How do you come up with ideas for new songs?
Inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere. I can make music out of any subject matter. I observe and reflect a lot and this helps a lot.
Most artist usually engage themselves pre-recording habits, do you have any pre-recording rituals or habits and can you share with us what it is?
I just let the mood take me, especially when I am in that music space. And I am always ready to work.
What has been the highlight of your music career so far?
Being able to have my brand presenct at top notch events like Alibaba January 1st consecutively, perform at Felabration 2 years in a row, amongst several others and I also have my annual event ‘An Ashny Valentine’ every year. I have been able to release desirable songs and please the ears of the world with quality and value added music.
What are your short-term and long-term goals as a musical artist?
I don’t have any time bound goals. I go as God directs me. I am a musician. I pray to always be relevant with my gifts and also be active in my old age like King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Queen Salawa Abeni, Yinka Davies etc
Every artist or celebrity has a fan base and i’m sure you also have one and it’s called Ashtonian fan club. Now, how do you stay connected with your fans and engage with them?
I disturb them everyday with interesting materials from my kitty. There is always something new from Ashny every day every week. I started teasing new songs from my next EPs after my album ‘Femme Fatale’ was released. I always love to engage and update my fans and well wishers with lunch dates, gifts and will soon start a skit character to delight my audience.
Okay. So are there any upcoming projects or releases you’re excited about?
I intend dropping a new EP every month from February till my next album drops in October. I am in several new movies coming out soon. I featured as a music cameo in ‘Scama O Rama’, played the lead female act in ‘An Area Boy’ and ‘Stiletto Chickito’. I also have my music driven movie ‘Birth Of A Nightingale’ out soon. I am also preparing for a TV reality show.
Moving on to the industry insights, what do you think is the biggest challenge facing the music industry today?
Lack of structure.
Social media over the years has been a power tool used by artist. Coming to you Ashny, how do you think social media has impacted the music industry?
Social media has greatly impacted the music industry by giving artistes a direct means to connect with fans, build their brand, and promote their music. It allows for viral moments, helping new artistes get discovered quickly. However, it also creates pressure for constant content and can lead to oversaturation, making it harder for some to stand out.
What advice would you give to aspiring musical artists?
To keep thriving and never give up.
Are there any industry trends or changes you’re particularly excited about?
I like that now with your phone you can advance your music career, but we still have gate keepers who don’t allow young people come up easily.
Hopefully, things will change in the nearest future.
To the fun part, if you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?
Beyoncé, Asa, Michael Jackson
If you weren’t a musical artist, what would you be doing instead?
Acting and fashion designing which also part of what I am currently doing. Also I am open to more business opportunities.
