Daily Inspiration: Meet Ashley Nicole Greene

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Nicole Greene.

Hi Ashley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
My mom tells me the story often because it was the moment that uprooted our lives forever. At the age of 3, while watching a music show, I turned to my mother and said, “Momma, I want to be a star on TV.” Before saying this, my mom said she always knew that I was destined for a life in the entertainment industry but didn’t expect me to come to the realization until at least twelve or so. So, it was a shock to her that I announced it so early. From then on, my mom became my number one fan and support system and made the huge decision to move me to LA. That’s what started it all. She’s tried her absolute best to create opportunities for me, get me into rooms, and made countless sacrifices in the process. The reason why I am where I am today is because of her. I’m so grateful to have had a parent who made it their dream to make MY dreams come true because I know that a lot of children with dreams don’t have that privilege. 

My first big opportunity was on the show “Majors & minors” on the HUB Network. When I as 10, I was one of 12 children cast for the show. There, I was mentored by R&B icon Brandy, Jennifer Hudson, Leona Lewis, Jordan Sparks, Sean Kingston, Avril Lavigne, will.i.am, Adam Lambert, Mike Posner, and so many more incredible musicians, writers, and producers. On the show, I wrote a song called “Atmosphere,” which was co-written by Evan Bogart and released under the RCA label. That experience solidified my desire to pursue music as a lifelong passion. I went on to create with many producers, release various songs and projects, spent countless hours in the studio, attended GRAMMY Camp for 3 years in a row, started my own label, signed a publishing deal with Alan Melina of New Heights Entertainment, and most recently just received my first two sync licensing placements on “Inside Job” on Netflix and “Life After Lockup” on WeTV! 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have definitely been many ups and downs. When I was younger, I was working in both music and acting, and the nature of the industry can be brutal at times. The entertainment industry is one where you have to provide your best at all times with no expectations of instant gratification. 

I think the only thing that can keep you sane, resilient, and dedicated is your love of the craft. Acting is something I’ve taken a step back from in recent years, but music is something I know I’ll do for life, regardless of who’s listening. That spirit is what keeps me working, dreaming, and striving. You always have to remind yourself that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, recording engineer, and producer. Vocal arranging is one of my favorite aspects of the creative process. I just love creating vocal soundscapes for people to get lost in and feel engulfed by, and I feel like I’m becoming known for this technique amongst my musical friends who’ve heard my newer, unreleased music. I would say I’m most proud of having stepped into my own as an artist in recent years. I took down a lot of my music from streaming platforms in 2021 and went on this journey of self-discovery, refining my vocals, and learning to show up more authentically in this life as a whole. All of this growth has culminated in a project I’m working on right now called “What Lovers Do.” It’s an EP that will be released on April 19th. I think what sets me apart from others is my intensity, both emotionally and musically. In music, that manifests as cinematic, dramatic musical moments and motifs, and in life, that manifests as feeling very deeply about everything and also being able to feel what’s going on within others as well.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My mom is my number one, of course (Love you, Mom), but I will say I am so grateful to have had so much support and love and people pouring into me over the years. My family as a whole has provided unwavering support and cheerleading along the whole journey. My extended family has as well, especially other “Momagers” who also had children in the industry that my mom befriended and who ultimately became my family. They act as pillars of encouragement, strength, and stability when the road gets uncertain. They have helped me study my scripts, coached me for acting, critiqued my musical performances, listened to music and provided feedback, and have provided the emotional support necessary when enduring this industry. 

Brandy is also my biggest musical inspiration and mentor, and I’m so grateful to have worked with her in the past. I study Brandy’s vocal arrangement techniques and placements because it’s just so out of this world to me. I’ve taken what I’ve learned from her and implemented it into my own creative process, so I am so grateful for her music. I am also endlessly moved and inspired by Sade’s talent and spirit. She possesses an effortless grace and an energy that is so captivating and enchanting, so I have studied her and her discography as well. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamashleymusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IamAshleyMusic/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamashleymusic1/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IamAshleyMusic

Image Credits
Nagmeh Mirzaei
Raphe Valdez