We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Robyn Ashley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Robyn below.

Robyn , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later?

If I could go back in time, I would definitely start pursuing my music career sooner! Music has been my lifelong passion. I was deeply involved in my community, taking lessons to enhance my voice and hone my songwriting skills. Music consumed my thoughts; it was the first thing on my mind in the morning and the last before I fell asleep.

However, I didn’t fully dive into my professional artist career until I was 27. Why the delay? I was incredibly self-aware, and I realized that fear was holding me back. I was so focused on achieving perfection and constantly questioning whether I was ready or good enough. I had a career I liked, but it didn’t ignite my passion. Eventually, I had to face that disconnect head on and it was a painful turning point for me.

I firmly believe in the value of time currency, and I didn’t want to be the person looking back with a “what if.” So, I took the leap and jumped right in. It’s been a journey of putting one foot in front of the other, day by day.

Here are some things I wish the younger me had believed:

– Perfection is a myth—your target will always shift, so just start now!
– Nobody has it all figured out; we’re all learning as we go.
– Most people won’t judge you as harshly as you think, so don’t let fear hold you back.
– There are mentors out there ready to offer guidance; seek them out!
– There’s a community for everything—find your tribe and get involved.
– Remember to give yourself grace along the way.

Looking back, I definitely wish I had started sooner, and I feel a sense of sadness that I lacked the confidence at the time. So, to anyone out there with a passion they’re not pursuing, don’t wait any longer! Chasing your dreams is one of the hardest, riskiest things you can do, but it’s also the path to true fulfillment. Go for it.

Robyn , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For those who may not be familiar with me, I’m Robyn Ashley, an emerging artist from Edmonton, Alberta. Music has always been my passion, deeply rooted in the core meaning of my life. I was always involved in music programs which fueled my desire to share my stories through music.

I officially stepped into the music industry at 27. It would have been at least a decade sooner if I didn’t let fear and self-doubt interfere in me following my dreams. To anyone out there hesitating on starting a passion of there’s, dont wait like I did.. Just start. My debut single, “Sweet Goodbye,” released in 2023, and marked the beginning of my journey. It ended up reaching number 6 on the Canadian Indie Country Chart and will always be a such a special song that started my journey.

As a singer-songwriter, I create music that blends country with pop elements, often drawing from a range of genres that reflect my diverse influences. I call this ‘Sparkle Rock’. My songs explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth, offering a relatable soundtrack for anyone navigating life’s ups and downs. I aim to provide an authentic and heartfelt experience for my listeners, creating a connection that goes beyond just music.

What sets me apart is my commitment to storytelling. Each song is a piece of my journey, infused with raw emotion and sincerity. I believe in the power of music to heal and connect people, and I strive to create a space where my audience feels seen and understood. Additionally, my recent nominations at the 10th Annual Josie Awards, including Rising Country Star and Vocalist of the Year Country Rock, reflect my dedication and the unique sound I bring to the industry.

I’m most proud of the community I’ve built around my music. The support I’ve received from the community and fellow artists has been incredible. My journey is a testament to the importance of following your passion and embracing the risks that come with it.

For potential new friends and connections, I want you to know that my music is not just a form of entertainment; it’s an invitation to join me on a heartfelt journey. I’m excited to share my upcoming releases, including my latest single, “Chasing Red Lights,” and I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the challenges.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the connection I forge with my audience through music. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about knowing that my songs can resonate with someone’s personal experiences or emotions. When people share their stories about how a particular song impacted them, it reinforces the idea that music truly has the power to heal and inspire.

Additionally, the creative process itself is deeply rewarding. Writing songs allows me to explore my own feelings and experiences, transforming them into something tangible that others can relate to. It’s like sharing a piece of my soul with the world. The journey of crafting a song—from the initial idea to the final production —brings a sense of accomplishment and joy that is hard to replicate.

Finally, the community I’ve built around my music has been incredibly rewarding. Collaborating with other artists and musicians, as well as being part of a supportive network fosters an environment where creativity thrives. It’s amazing to be surrounded by people who share a passion for music and who inspire one another to push boundaries and grow.

Overall, the ability to connect, create, and collaborate makes being an artist one of the most fulfilling journeys I could ever imagine.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One significant moment that illustrated my resilience occurred after I was involved in a motor vehicle accident. The recovery process was challenging and changed my ability to participate in certain aspects of my career as aggressively as I was used to. It forced me to slow down and reevaluate my approach to hitting my goals.

During this time, I learned the importance of remaining positive and embracing the journey, even when it felt frustrating. There were moments when I had to confront the reality of where I was, but I chose to focus on the progress I was making, however small.

Additionally, as I navigate my career, I’ve encountered countless “no’s,” and I know there will be many more to come. Instead of letting those rejections get me down, I’ve fundamentally shifted my perspective. I believe that as long as I give my best and put in the work, the opportunities that are meant for me will naturally come my way. I no longer view “no’s” as failures but rather as signs that something wasn’t meant for me at that moment.

This journey has taught me that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about staying positive, adapting to change, and enjoying the ride. Each challenge has made me stronger and more determined to keep pursuing my passion, no matter the obstacles.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://robynashley.com/
• Instagram: @robynashleymusic
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081485509616
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@robynashleymusic

Image Credits

Michelle Spice Photography
Brisza