ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: ASH OLSEN
Rising artist Ash Olsen discusses their debut album "Golden Child," representing personal and artistic growth. Inspired by being called a "golden child" during a spiritual reading, the album explores same-sex love authentically. Collaborating with WIINSTON and Che Lingo was enjoyable, resulting in a seamless creative process. Ash balances rap skills with catchy melodies, freestyling based on the music's emotional energy. Grateful for positive feedback on their single "someone else," Ash promises high-energy live performances. Moving forward, their goals are to make music daily, perform extensively, and embody growth and confidence from their EP "ASHY" to "Golden Child."
Your debut album, "Golden Child," has just been released to much anticipation. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the album and what listeners can expect from it?
- I’ve been sitting on this album for like 3 years now! So it’s very exiting finally getting out there. The inspiration for the album was just me growing more as a person and artist, and me being in the moment, and finding my style even more I guess. I feel like this album shows more of who I am as an artist and the versatility I have in my sound.
The album's title, "Golden Child," holds a significant meaning to you. Could you share the story behind the name and how it reflects your journey as an artist?
- I had a reading with my spiritual guide as I like to call her, and she told me I was a “golden child”. She told me that golden children are a group of people who come to earth for a special mission and that they usually have a hard time being here because of this. The things she told me just sat with me, and every time I thought about what I should call the album I always came back to that.
"Golden Child" explores themes of same-sex love and relationships. How did you approach capturing these experiences and emotions in your music?
- That just comes very naturally for me I guess, I just write trying not to think too much and put all my emotions and honesty in there.
Your collaboration with WIINSTON and Che Lingo garnered a lot of attention. Can you tell us about the creative process behind that collaboration and what it was like working with them?
- That was fuuun, they sent over the song and I was down right away. I sat in the studio at home just trying things out, and I already loved the concept so it all came pretty smoothly together. They’re great and I’m very happy with the way it turned out.
Your album showcases a unique blend of razor-sharp verses and irresistible melodies. How do you balance your rap skills with creating catchy and memorable hooks?
- When I’m in the studio we always start with laying down some chords or melodies, and when I feel like I have enough to hop on, I freestyle and whatever the music makes me feel is the energy the song gets kind of. So I just go off emotions.
You've mentioned that authenticity is important to you as an artist. How did you ensure that your rawest human sentiments were captured in the songs on "Golden Child"?
- I think that I’m just always very much in the moment when I make music, and I make sure to always match up what I’m feeling as to how it sounds..
The success of your recent single, "someone else," has been remarkable. How does it feel to receive such positive feedback from both fans and respected publications?
- it’s amazing to see all the support, I feel extremely grateful for everyone who’s showing love!
You've performed at various festivals and live events. What can fans expect from your live performances, and do you have any upcoming shows they should look out for?
- Lots of energy!! There’s nothing like going on stage and playing ball with the audience.. I put a lot of effort into connecting with whoever’s in front of me, and I always aim for them to walk away feeling good as hell
As a rising star in the industry, what are your goals and aspirations for your music career moving forward?
- Tbh I just wanna make music everyday and play a bunch of shows! It makes my heart flutter more than anything.
Finally, how would you describe the overall journey and growth you've experienced as an artist from your 2021 EP, "ASHY," to your latest album, "Golden Child"?
- There’s definitely a lot of growth, I’ve been way more comfortable with sharing deeper emotions and not holding back for example.. it makes me feel very good not caring about what other people think and just do my own thing. I feel more confident then ever.