Brooke Ashton Chats About Her “Someone” Single, Creative Process, and More!

Debuting her new single “Someone” from her upcoming album, country singer-songwriter Brooke Ashton is stepping onto the scene as an artist to keep an eye on in 2024. Her new thought-provoking song, inspired by the passing of a dear friend, delves into the depths of the human experience, urging listeners to cherish the present moment and love wholeheartedly.

Described as ethereal, grounded, and reflective, “Someone” falls within the genres of melancholic folk and Americana. With heartfelt lyrics and a powerful melody, “Someone” reminds us of the importance of living in the present and showing compassion to others. The song captures the essence of the human condition, highlighting the universal need for connection and understanding.

We sat down with Brooke to learn more about her as an up-and-coming country artist, diving deep into her creative process, influences, dreams, and more. Read on for the exclusive interview with V13!

How would you describe your music?

Brooke Ashton: “I would describe my music as honest, simple, and meaningful. Most of the songs I write are about experiences that we have all had in some form. I don’t like to complicate things with lyrics or leave the listener wondering what I meant when I wrote that. I also don’t like to waste a song singing about random nonsense! Haha.”

How would you describe your creative process?

“Spiritual. Many of the songs that I write come to me when I least expect them. Once the offering comes, then it is up to me to uncover and craft the rest of the song.”

Who are your biggest influences?

“There are so many! I think any musician I have ever heard has inspired me in some way. I’d say Dolly Parton, Gregory Alan Isakov, Patti Griffin, and Gillian Welch, to name a few.”

Cover art for “Someone” by Brooke Ashton

Tell us about your most recent release: what was your experience of making it? What went on behind the scenes? Any notable moments that stand out?

“When I was writing “Someone” the first line and melody came to me the day before my friend John passed away… It was kind of like an inkling of what was coming, although I didn’t know at the time what it was for. I finished the song a few days after learning that he passed on. I got chills when I was finishing the song; it was almost like another presence was there working with me. We recorded most of the song “Someone” in one evening. Mutual friends of John, that happened to be incredible musicians, all came in and played their parts. We laughed a lot and created a beautiful song. It was a neat experience to be part of.”

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

“Josh Ritter is a lyrical genius. The way his brain works is beyond anything I am capable of. It would be neat to work with him and see what his writing process looks like.”

Which act would you want to tour with?

“Dolly Parton is such a phenomenal human; I would love to learn from her! Also, Gregory Alan Isakov seems like a cool dude. If I was ever given either opportunity, I would not refuse!”

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

“I wish women were represented better in the music industry. Especially Mothers. It’s like people think you are incapable of doing anything other than being a mom once you become one. Also, it would be nice to not have to worry about if someone really believes in my music or if they just want something from me. 🙄”

What is your writing process like?

“It depends on the song. Sometimes, I have lyrics first, and I have to write a melody. Other times, the melody comes, and I have to piece together lyrics that fit. That could take days, weeks or even years. Every now in then, a song falls out of the sky and is written in 10 minutes complete. Those are gold.”

When you write, do you do so with the live setting in mind, or do you write a song just for the song’s sake?

“Most of the time I write for the song’s sake. I always want the song to be the strongest it can be. I want it to offer something powerful to the listener no matter what the setting is.”

What is the story behind the name of the upcoming record?

“‘Woman’ is a compilation of songs old and new that reflect my journey as a woman in the world thus far. I chose each song because I felt it represented who I am as a person, and the messages I want to share. There are songs about Nature, Depression, Relationships, Motherhood, Home, Self- Discovery and more!”

What are some of the newer bands that you are listening to or enjoy?

“This past year, I discovered “The Band Willa,” Sierra Ferrell, and Willow Avalon, I have really enjoyed listening to them, and I think they are incredible artists.”

Tell us about your experience going it alone as an artist. How hard is it to get your music distributed, promoted, shared, etc?

“Being an independent artist is so tough. I don’t have the team or support that a signed artist has. I’m expected to do EVERYTHING on my own, and it is so overwhelming. Most people don’t know my music yet, so figuring out creative ways to promote it and have people share it can be frustrating. Especially when I know that what I am offering is worth it. I’m fighting against algorithms and a heavily saturated music industry, which is not easy. At the end of the day, it is up to a listener to click on my song and give it a chance. Fingers crossed!”

Image of Brooke Ashton, by Isabella Osborn Photography

When recording your latest batch of tunes, did anything strange, wonderful or terrible occur?

“One experience comes to mind. I was in the studio listening to the strings being recorded on a track. I remember feeling this overwhelming peace; almost like I was in a trance. I knew that I was doing what I was supposed to be doing at that moment in time. It was kinda wild. I’ve been so fortunate to work with an incredible string player that has played on some big records. I’m grateful for that experience he gave me.”

Do you have anything you’d like to tell any fans reading right now?

“Thank you. Thank you for listening to my music and taking the time out of your busy lives to read this. I hope that something I have written in a song or said helps/ inspires you in some way.”

What’s next for you?

“As long as I am breathing, I’ll be writing music. Even if my music career never becomes anything more than what it currently is. I’m still going to write, record and release the best music I am capable of. It’s woven into my DNA… part of my everyday life.”