Asha Maclean: From The Heart

Asha Maclean | YOGA

A bonafide triple threat, meet singer-songwriter-dancer, Asha Maclean. Born and raised in the Big Apple, this aspiring R&B / Pop upstart and protégé of GRAMMY-winning producer Charles Farrar [Boyz II Men, Destiny's Child] latest composition nostalgically samples former Bad Boy artist Cheri Dennis’ “I Love You.” 

Let’s hop into this single / video, “ Yoga” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it even come to fruition? 

"Yoga" was just meant to be a fun, danceable song — something with a familiar old-school sound, paired with catchy melodies. I love writing conceptual songs; they're something I often gravitate towards. The music video plays with the concept of "yoga," adding colorful lights and a comfortable wardrobe that resembles my usual style. Of course, we incorporated dance since it's a dance record, as well as a passion of mine.

How then does “ Yoga“ either differ and / or compare to previous Asha Maclean entries?

Of what I have released, "Yoga" is the most uptempo and repetitive for sure. I think it was the most fun for me to dance to, especially during the making of the music video. In terms of similarities, it does stick to my theme of love and relationships, even heartbreak in some ways.   

As a songwriter when you sit down to pen your lyrics, where do you draw inspiration from? 

I personally am inspired by my own experiences in life. I feel most comfortable writing about my relationships because they were all very significant in my teen years. Now that I'm 20, I think I've realized that I have a lot more to say than "she broke my heart." I'm still finding my voice and the words that follow, but it all comes from the heart.   

Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for you, Asha?   

I've been interested in music since I can remember. I think it came to me in middle school through dance. I was part of a Hip Hop dance team, and we'd compete with these five-minute long numbers, and there were probably twenty of us girls. It wasn't just the choreography that made me fall in love, or the competitive aspect of it; it was the music. My coaches had great taste. Because of them, I grew up on Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Chris Brown, Missy Elliott, T-Pain, and so many more. Singing for me was always a hobby, but shortly after 8th grade, I met my now producer and started taking it more seriously. 

Asha Maclean

Now where exactly do you hail from? And growing up there, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences? 

I was born and raised in Manhattan, NYC. One of the best places to grow up in the arts. My strongest influences growing up were my middle school dance team coaches, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé. They were my big three as a kid because I loved the way they performed and created their own worlds within their music.   

That said, how do you describe and / or define the style of music that you create and / or perform?

I’ve taken about 6 years to learn and develop as an artist and songwriter, so my style is constantly changing and evolving. I think I make music that reminds me of what I grew up loving because it’s what makes me happiest. I love genre blending. R’n’B with Pop, a little bit of old school Hip Hop, Soul, etcetera.   

What particular string of events actually led to your current signing to / with Vyrus Entertainment / Vydia?

It all started by posting cover songs on my Instagram account. I had been doing it for a couple years, but really started getting comfortable posting when I started high school. I was technically connected with Charles Farrar through a friend of my little sister’s who played one of my cover videos for her father. At the time, he was partners with Charles and had relayed my videos to him. Soon after that, we met and have been working together since.  

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?  

I want to attract fellow music lovers. People that love old school hits with a cool more modern flair. I want people to relate and resonate with my emotions and lyrics. I think that’s what a lot of artists strive for - not just to be seen, but to be heard.      

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?        

I would love to collaborate with Leon Thomas; he’s been a favorite of mine recently. He’s worked with a lot of amazing artists; like Ariana Grande and Kehlani, that I am greatly influenced by. I think a session with him would be an amazing challenge to experience. I love his sound. 

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why? 

Asha Maclean

If I could play any venue in the world, I’d choose Wembley Stadium. One of my favorite bands of all time is Queen, and I would’ve done anything to see their Live Aid performance in 1985. To be on the same stage as legends would be the greatest honor of my life.     

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of music?

I am happy with the current state of music because I feel like there’s an opening for something new. I love the resurgence of dirty hyper Pop; like Charli xcx. I’m loving the comeback of slow R’n’B.  

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?     

I believe the key to longevity is persistence, and the ability to adapt; both of which I pride myself on. I am constantly working, writing, singing, arranging, vocal producing and looking for collaborations. It’s impossible for me not to stay focused because I love what I create.  

Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Honestly, nothing else has grasped my attention outside of music. I’ve always seen music as a form of therapy and way to help people, so maybe if I had to choose, it would be something in that field. 

To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?        

I think hitting almost 800K streams on Spotify has been pretty amazing to see. I’ve always believed in myself, but I didn’t think I’d be getting this much attention this fast. I actually just got recognized for the first time the other day in a boba shop for my music, that was really, really cool. 

What’s an average day like for you?

An average day for me would be going to Blank Street for an iced latte, writing in my journal in Central Park, grabbing a sandwich, and going to the studio. I like to keep my days simple because I usually exert a lot of energy at night.  

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans... 

I try to respond with as much love and appreciation as I possibly can. Their support means the world to me, and it’s still crazy that I’m getting so much of it. Being recognized and reached out to for my music truly makes my day, so I hope I’m able to do the same for them.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why? 

My favorite part of making music is the in-studio process, honestly. I’m the happiest in my little recording booth with my favorite engineer, just throwing ideas until they stick. I love expressing myself with the people that understand me. I’d say my least favorite part is how long it takes to release music. I’m super impatient, so the second I finish recording a song I want it to be mixed, mastered and ready to put out the very next day, haha. 

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

My advice would be to follow your instincts. Your mind can easily distract you from your goals if you let it. Don’t let the noise deafen you. Don’t silence your thoughts either. Let every word, note and melody flow through you freely. It’s the only way you’ll be able to stay true to yourself. 

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?     

I see myself songwriting with some of my favorites, as well as fellow upcoming artists and writers. Releasing a lot more music, maybe even a couple projects. 

As for the immediate, what's next for Asha Maclean? 

As of right now, all my focus is on “Yoga” and continuing to write new songs every week. I’ve been looking for new collaborations, too. Eventually, we will work on releasing another single, then potentially an EP. Thank you guys so much for having me in mind to interview! I really appreciate the exposure and your support of my music!

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