Photo Credit: Phyllis Lane

Name: Ashley Wineland

Birthplace: Phoenix, AZ

Current Residence: Phoenix, AZ

Music Style: Country 

Website/Social Media Links: Website, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube

Please introduce yourself. 

I am Ashley Wineland. I am a country music singer-songwriter. I’ve been an independent artist my whole career. I was born and raised in Arizona, but I produce my music in Nashville, TN. 

Tell us about your newest project. What was the inspiration behind it and where can we check it out?

I just released the first single of my upcoming project, “Crank It Up”. This song is all about getting out in the world and enjoying life to the max! It’s a rocking, country tune that begs to be sung like an anthem! It also has a music video, so it is available to stream via Vevo, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and other major online platforms. 

How would you describe your music?

I would describe my music as a blend of 90s/early 2000s style country writing and feel and the modern sounds of today’s country. The music I produce has a lot of energy and feeling in it. If you are a fan of artists like Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, and Gretchen Wilson, I think you would love my music. 

How did you get started?

I’ve always loved the performing arts and working on pieces to perform for people. I took every opportunity I had growing up through school, networking with others in my area, and learning online, to develop my skills in the arts and it has snowballed to the point where I am able to have a full time job as a musician. 

Who are your biggest musical influences? Do you have any other influences?

Some of my biggest influences growing up were artists like Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert, but I also found a lot of joy and inspiration in acts like Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton. Powerhouse women through and through. Outside of music, my parents have always been major influences in my life. I would not have been able to kick start my journey without their support! They are prime examples of hard work and passion leading to wonderful things. 

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I would love to change the dynamic of gatekeeping opportunities and support for artists who do not have the notoriety or the finances to receive the chances they need. There are so many talented artists in the world who never get to watch their art thrive due to financial constraints and lack of a support network. 

What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?

There are a few things that make my work different from my counterparts in the industry. Firstly, the blend of sounds I explore is different than most. I love fusing country with some rock and roll tones, I think it makes for exciting music. Also, I have a very tight knit group of fans. The fans are the foundation of everything I do, and we have a close network of individuals who come and support one another, bonded together because of my music, and I think that is a beautiful thing. 

What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?

My biggest “why” for music boils down to one thing: connection. The power of music and the arts to bring people together and create impactful experiences is something so unique and exhilarating. 

What’s next for you?

I am currently touring the United States on my Crank It Up Tour, so the next few months of my life are dedicated to the road and entertaining communities. Also, there are more music releases that are happening this year as well! 

What are your career goals in the next five years?

I always find it hard to answer this question because the industry has taught me that your 5 year plan is usually not going to play out on your timeline or that new things you never anticipated might get thrown in the equation. However, to answer the question, I would love to see my music develop to a place where we are touring the music on an international level and continuing to grow my career to support myself and others as we make a living doing what we love with the arts.