“This project has been so special to me because it’s truly my story.” — Ashley Barron’s Album, Checkmate
“My parents have always been my rock. They’ve never stopped pushing and supporting me throughout this journey.” Hometown, Sacramento, California. Declined acceptance into the University of Arizona to pursue a career in country music. “I’ll never forget what my dad said to me when I wanted to drop out of college to pursue music. He said, “We only regret the things in life we didn’t do.” What was the best advice your mom shared with you?
The best advice my mom ever shared with me was to trust God and not care what others think.
Inspired by strong women in country music. Miranda Lambert. Loretta Lynn. “I was taught to never give up, and if I can help someone push through a rough time, then I’m sharing my story.” First single, “It Might Get Loud,” came out in 2017 when you were 23 years old. How has your storytelling evolved since then?
When I came to Nashville and started writing songs, I found it was much easier when I was writing about the experiences I’ve been through in life. My songwriting has taught me to be truthful because I’m not the only one who’s gone through these things.
“The hardest part is how easy it is to get lost in the comparison game. … Social media is just a highlight reel.” How has your fans’ support helped you stay on course?
Being an independent artist can be so draining. But then I see fans saving my songs or using them on TikTok or Instagram, and it reminds me of why I do what I do.
On a mission to support and uplift, including through your music, as an ambassador for the Scleroderma Foundation. Living with the disease, a rare rheumatic disease that affects connective tissue and the vascular system. How do you educate, connect, and help others take action after being diagnosed?
Working with the National Scleroderma Foundation is a huge honor. They’ve added so much purpose to my career. I never thought my journey with this disease would be relatable for so many. It gives me great joy to be able to connect with those like me.
Touring. Joe Nichols. Craig Morgan. Which venues top your bucket list to play?
I’ve learned so much from being on the road with such great artists. I’m forever grateful for the opportunities they’ve provided. I still have high hopes to one day play venues like Bridgestone Arena here in Nashville or Madison Square Garden.
“I was single for many years and there comes a point when you start to question, am I ever gonna find love? This song came from that place. One morning after another break up, I was on my knees asking God if I would ever just be satisfied. I believe God put this song on my heart to write to share with others who may be in that same head space. Like all the songs I write, I want others to know they are not alone in their journey.” “Satisfied,” co-written with Bill Diluigi, could apply to one’s job, family life, any place you feel stuck. Can you share how this song has connected with fans?
I love when I get to play my song “Satisfied” at writer rounds. It allows us to break the song down acoustically, and to me, there’s something about hearing a song played that way. It showcases the vulnerability of the songwriting and allows listeners to connect deeper.
Growth, heartbreak, and eventual healing. Checkmate. “I’m very excited for this album to be released because it’s the first album I really took full control of. I chose my band leader, Aaron Stapler, to be the producer on the record, and he absolutely crushed it!” Stapler grew up in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a place with a long musical history. How has his support inspired you as an artist?
Aaron pushes me to be better and keep going. He’s not afraid to tell me the cold, hard truth, and I’m grateful to have someone like that in my camp!
The new album uses the game of checkers to explore the strategic aspects of life and love.“This project has been so special to me because it’s truly my story. I started writing these songs as I was coming out of a four-year failed relationship. These songs were my therapy — my journey out of a very dark place, re-entering back into the dating world, and ultimately finding what true love really is.” The album is a testament to the strength it takes to face challenges head-on, and the wisdom gained from each experience. Lyrics can help others find comfort and boost their own wellbeing. If you were to put together a playlist of songs by other artists to heal by, which would be your top five?
My top 5 songs to listen to from other artists when I’m feeling down are “Quit” by HARDY, “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera, “Raise a Hallelujah” by Bethel Music, “The Steeple” by Halestorm, and “The Champion” by Carrie Underwood & Ludacris.
What’s ahead in 2025?
You’ll have to wait and see!
For more information and to connect with Ashley Barron, follow her on Website, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.