Originally from Warwickshire before moving to London and France, singer-songwriter Ivy Ash didn’t start to explore original music until her return back to the Midlands. Prior to this, she did cover gigs at local pubs and clubs, not knowing songwriting could be a profession, as she knew no one involved with writing their own material.
Ivy Ash states she must have been at least 22 before it felt like life wasn't one big uphill struggle, to now being a supporter of positive mental health. She says, “the ups and downs that have happened in my life have totally shaped me and impacted me as a person, as well as with my music.” As she creates her original music, her lyrics are direct in nature as a reflection of this, although she likes to see her songs as escapism. “I always try to focus on the silver lining or the light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark the initial topic,” she continues. Her songs are little musical journeys hoping it gives off a sense of relief, empowerment, or resolving something to move on with the next chapter.
Going back to the beginning, diving into her musical influences growing up Ivy Ash states from the ages four through 10 she had ‘Barbie Girl’ on an endless repeat. Then throughout the years her musical influences have changed and evolved - but loving a mixture of songs. As it’s always a surprise on what the next song will be, she created a Spotify playlist that includes Soft Cell, Prince, Oasis, Nelly Furtado, Bonobo and Doja Cat, citing some present inspirations on her musical craft.
Ivy Ash released her debut single ‘Oops’ in February 2021, being a direct and sassy first release. “I wanted to start with a bang and I’m so glad it’s done just that,” she says. Then she released an acoustic version of the track that gives off a totally different vibe. “I love the fact that the same song can be explored in different ways with different sentiments,” she continues.
Regarding the songwriting and production of Ivy Ash’s music, she is one-hundred percent involved with every aspect of her music. From the first lockdown of the global pandemic of COVID-19, she became obsessed with music production, slowly getting to grips with everything and learning all that’s involved. “I might even set myself a challenge to fully produce and release a track by myself,” she says.
With a lot going on in the world currently, it’s hard to stay present and enjoy things. Ivy Ash uses music as a release as it’s how she deals with anxiety or issues, becoming a form of therapy. “The thought that my music can also help others to feel empowered and confident, even if it’s just a slice of happiness or escapism for three minutes,” she says noting it’s all worthwhile in the end.
For someone coming across Ivy Ash’s music, she describes her sound as fun, energetic, cheeky, poppy, and sassy. She wants fans to feel confident and empowered when listening to her music. She says, “I spent so much of my life feeling different because of the unrealistic standards that you see on magazines and movies. Embrace your flaws, love yourself and be true to you.”
At the start of 2021 Ivy Ash received music funding from Arts Council England which has been a huge support allowing her to work on future releases for later this year. She tells fans to expect more music videos, more quirky tracks, and acoustic versions.
Words by Danielle Holian
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