5 Questions with Stalk Ashley

Small in stature but with a voice that packs a punch is Stalk Ashley. The dancehall artiste entered the scene in 2019 with her fast-becoming classic anthem Young and has been making waves ever since with sweet vocals delivering raunchy lyrics over genre-bending beats. Her fans – self-proclaimed ‘Bratts’ – love the Tip singer not only for her forward-facing take on traditional dancehall, but also for her unique signature street-themed style and boldly coloured hair with lashes to match.

So far, her career has progressed at break-neck speed, no doubt a result of the unquestionable talent seen in her witty lyrics and angelic voice, but already, she seems to be gathering even more speed. Constantly, she is adding big-hitters to her list of musical collaborations, including dancehall artistes Valiant, Alkaline, Skeng and Skillibeng. Plus, with an EP fast on the way, the world is hers. The Gleaner sat down with Stalk Ashley to ask her Five Questions.

1. You have already released ‘Really Like U’ from ‘Stalky the Bratt’, your début EP coming out in May. The song layers dancehall-leaning lyrics over a trap/R&B beat. Will the rest of the EP be as experimental?

For this upcoming project, you can definitely expect more out of the box, more creativity, and more individuality. I’ve always been one who believes that it’s important to be yourself. [In Stalky the Bratt] I’m just showcasing more of my talent and more of what I can do. Hopefully, it’s well received!

2. You have been away from the Jamaican performance scene for some time, but now, you’re gradually making a comeback. What led to your break?

Basically, I did the whole run last year. It was great. I gained a lot of experience by doing all of the shows, but it made me realise that I was not where I wanted to be. It made me go back to the drawing board, basically. I had a good time and met some good crowds. I had some good performances. But it made me realise how much there was to do. I’m doing my singing lessons, I’m doing my dancing lessons … to make sure that by the next time I step out there, it’s a noticeable difference. I do take this craft [seriously]. I’m dedicating my life to something of the utmost importance.

3. For this new era of Stalk Ashley, are you drawing on anyone or anything in particular for inspiration?

In this particular era of my life and career, I’m relying solely on myself for inspiration. Not to sound vain or anything, but that has always been the case. My career and my music have always been inspired by my life. I believe I have a story to tell, and what [better] way to tell it than to tell it myself rather than relying on somebody in the future to write a book or something that might not even be accurate. I’d rather tell my story in the way that I know it. [I’m] my inspiration.”

4. Your distinctive style and its unique elements consistently make waves across Jamaica. What is one piece of style advice you will always live by?

Just do you. Wear whatever makes you comfortable in that particular moment. Wear what you want to be represented by, I would say. Just do you.

5. You’ve mentioned that your singing career started in the Church. Do you still practise those singing techniques today?

I still practise those techniques today. Maybe not in the music I have out, but in songs to come, you will see how I integrate that soul into my unreleased music. Trust me.

BRAWTA

Since beginning your career in music, fans have witnessed you go through several changes and eras. What would you describe as your favourite part so far?

To be honest, I love all parts. I do not have a favourite. I’ll leave that for fans of my music and fans of my eras to choose. But for me, all the eras were very real. I don’t know! I loved learning about myself. I loved going through different phases and expressing myself when I went through those different phases. I don’t think that’s for me to decide. People have favourites, and I’ll allow them that.”

entertainment@gleanerjm.com