Life & Work with Ashley Felton of Corona, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Felton.

Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up on country music, it’s been the soundtrack of my life for as long as I can remember. ’90s country, in particular, speaks to me like no other genre. Artists like Faith Hill, Deana Carter, Jo Dee Messina, Shania Twain, LeAnn Rimes, and Brooks & Dunn weren’t just music in our house, they were part of our family story. My parents were huge country fans, and we were even part of fan clubs, traveling to shows and fully immersed in that world.

At a young age, I had the incredible opportunity to sing on stage with Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Jo Dee Messina, and Shania Twain. Those moments were unforgettable and incredibly impactful, showing me the power of live music and planting a love for performing that never left me. I’ve always been inspired by how one song, written by one person, can reach so many people and make them feel seen.

Growing up, I dreamed of singing for others, but for a long time, it felt like a dream that would only happen with God’s will and timing. That moment came in 2022 on my first trip to Nashville. While on Broadway, we stopped at a bar where an artist named Max King was performing. A friend asked if I could join him on stage to sing “Picture” by Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock. At first, the answer was no, until my friend offered Max $20 and two shots of whiskey. He said yes, and I sang. That moment threw me into the fire and showed me how deeply others believing in you can change your life.

When I returned home, that same belief followed me. That same friend relentlessly encouraged our favorite neighborhood bar, Happy Hour Saloon, to give me a chance. In January 2023, they did, and that one yes changed everything. From there, the journey took off faster than I ever imagined.

Since then, I’ve played over 190 shows in a single year, had the honor of opening for country artists Clay Walker and Joe Nichols, and performed at iconic venues including the OC Fair, House of Blues Anaheim, and Desert 5 Spot in Los Angeles. I also have five singles out, Little One, Girl Time, Two Step, Gimme That, and my most recent release, From the Start.

What began as a lifelong love for country music has grown into a career I know was guided by faith, timing, and the people who believed in me before I fully believed in myself, and I’m just getting started.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I believe the challenges are what shaped me the most. Balancing life, motherhood, a full-time career, and building a music career from the ground up hasn’t always been easy. There were moments of doubt, financial strain, and learning how to bet on myself when there were no guarantees.

I’ve also had to navigate personal heartbreak, loss, and seasons where I questioned whether continuing was realistic or responsible. But every setback forced me to grow, sharpen my voice, and lean deeper into faith. I learned that rejection isn’t always a no, sometimes it’s simply redirection.

The struggles taught me resilience, humility, and gratitude, and they made the wins feel that much more meaningful. Looking back, I wouldn’t change the hard parts, because they’re the reason I stand where I am today.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At my core, I’m a country singer-songwriter and live performer. I specialize in emotionally honest storytelling rooted in ’90s country influence, blended with a modern edge that feels current and relatable. My music is built on strong melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and real-life experiences, the kind of songs that feel personal but universal.

I’m especially known for my live performances and the connection I build with an audience. Whether I’m playing a full band show or an acoustic set, my goal is always to create a space where people feel something, whether that’s joy, nostalgia, or comfort. I take pride in being a hardworking, consistent artist who shows up prepared and present, both on and off the stage.

What I’m most proud of is building my career organically from the ground up. From my first local shows to opening for artists like Clay Walker and Joe Nichols, releasing multiple singles, and playing iconic venues, every step has been earned through persistence, faith, and genuine connection.

What sets me apart is authenticity. I don’t try to be anything I’m not. My music reflects my life, my values, and my journey, and I hope people can feel that honesty in my songs and performances.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I don’t see myself as a risk-taker, but I do believe in intentional leaps of faith paired with consistently challenging myself to be more of a risk-taker! I certainly have a hard time saying no to opportunities because I do believe every “yes” leads to something else, but I’m also very thoughtful and responsible about the risks I take. I spend a lot of time considering my next big moves, especially as a mother and professional.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was committing fully to music while continuing to work a full-time job and raise my children. Balancing career, family, and building something from the ground up hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned that many of the most meaningful doors opened because I said yes before I felt completely ready.

My perspective on risk is rooted in faith. I believe God places opportunities in our path for a reason, and while not every risk leads to immediate success, every one has led me somewhere meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ashleyfeltonmusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.felton.music/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.moquin/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFCk9j2XcwAS2nm5-7ZhnIg

Image Credits
Rachel Deeb