I have been joined by Ivy Ash who have joined me to answer some questions about her musical career so you can find out a bit more about her!
Welcome to Totally Music would you like to introduce yourself?
I'm Ivy Ash, a music artist who's passionate about spreading self-love and positivity through electro-pop beats.
What got you into music?
I've always been into singing, dancing and performing. Looking back, I think it's really obvious from an early age that I was going to go into a creative career of some sort.
When I started working professionally, it was as a gigging singer at pubs, clubs and bars. I'd do the rounds and try and cram in as many gigs in a weekend as possible to make ends meet. It was exhausting but great fun at the same time! Many years (and gigs!) later, I started to think about songwriting. It's funny to look back because I never even realised songwriting was a real job until I began to explore further!
What influences the music you create?
People I meet, places I go and situations I've faced. A lot of my material stems from personal experiences, so the process usually starts with emotions.
What was the last song you wrote about?
The last song I wrote was a collab with a fantastic writer from the USA. We work via Zoom which is fun, but we have to make sure the time zones aren't too late or too early for each other. The whole song idea was about strutting down a catwalk, loving yourself and having fun being YOU.
What is the most difficult thing about being a musician?
All of the other tasks/expectations that have nothing to do with making actual music. Social media can be a tough one.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
That's such a tricky question because there's been so many highlights to date! From a personal perspective, finishing my B.A (Hons) in Music Business and Songwriting with a first-class honours this year was a top moment. I put so much time and effort into the three years of study (especially as it was during COVID times, so there was a level of uncertainty). It's a good feeling when hard work pays off.
What do you think is the most important thing for a musician to remember?
Remember the reason why you wanted to make music in the first place. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the logistics of social media posting, planning a release schedule and other business-related things. I understand, though, because you have to do about ten jobs in one as a solo music artist. It's overwhelming.
There was a period where I felt lost and needed to step away from music for a short time. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" they say, and it's completely true! I ended up missing music, and I bounced back stronger than ever.
What has been your favourite gig you have played and why?
I've performed at Warwickshire Pride for the last two years, and it's always such a great environment. Dan Browne, Sassi Afrika, and the team are incredibly supportive. Andy Holdcroft, who writes for Hot Music Live, usually pops by to support and write a review, too. It's great to see so many people supporting local music. At Warwickshire Pride, I love watching all the other acts, meeting the stall holders and listening to the speeches. This event is something I look forward to every single year now!
What can fans expect from a gig of yours?
A LOT of energy, upbeat music and a good time! I love it when people dance with me at my shows; seeing people getting involved and singing with you makes it all worthwhile.
What's next for you?
I've recently signed a deal with a USA sync agency, and I'm consistently working behind the scenes on collaborations and writing new songs. It would be ace to land a placement in TV or film
If you would like to check out Ivy Ash you can find her music here:
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