Connect
To Top

Life & Work with Jen Ash of LOS ANGELES

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Ash.

Hi Jen, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Lebanon, but because of the war, my family ended up moving to France when I was young. That’s where I grew up and where I discovered my first big passion — basketball. I got into it seriously and eventually played professionally for years. It taught me a lot about discipline, teamwork, and how to push through challenges.

But deep down, music was always calling me. It was something I kept tucked away — a dream I never fully pursued because of judgment and criticism from others.

Eventually, I made the decision to move to Los Angeles. I was searching for freedom — from society’s expectations, from family pressure, and mostly, to find myself and my purpose. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was doing or how I was going to make it, but I got on a plane and decided to follow whatever path life laid out for me.

It wasn’t easy — it was actually really scary at times. But what scared me even more was the idea of living a life stuck in routine, feeling miserable in a job that didn’t fulfill me. So I chose the struggle, the hustle, and the unknown, all for the chance to wake up every day excited to do what I love : Music

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road is never smooth — and honestly, if it were, it would be too easy. The struggles are what shape you into the person you’re becoming, and the artist you’re meant to be.

One of the first challenges I faced was learning to believe in myself more than anyone else did. It’s not just about saying you believe — it’s about truly knowing, deep down, that you are enough.

Language was a big hurdle when I started writing and recording in English. As it’s my second language, I struggled with pronunciation and writing in proper English. But I kept pushing, learning, and growing.

Another challenge was learning how to listen — but not too much. You have to filter what you take in. Constructive criticism can help you grow, but not every opinion deserves space in your mind, especially when it comes from people with no real understanding of your vision. I remember someone once told me my music sounded “dated” and that I should try to sound more like what’s popular.

But I didn’t want to sound like everyone else — I wanted to sound like me.

It took time, but eventually, I found my sound. I learned to embrace my roots, my influences, and most importantly, to stop judging myself for being different.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a singer, songwriter, and creative soul at heart. I specialize in blending soulful vocals with a mix of R&B, Afro-fusion, and French influences — a sound that reflects both where I come from and who I’ve become. My music is honest, emotional, and rooted in storytelling. I like to say I write from a place of truth — the messy, raw, beautiful kind.
I always try to my sure my songs feel intimate, like conversations people didn’t know they needed. That means everything to me.

I’m most proud of having the courage to start over and never give up . Leaving a professional basketball career, moving across the world to chase music, and finding my artistic identity — it took a lot of self-trust and resilience. It wasn’t always easy, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything.

I think what sets me apart is the Love I have for my craft and the certainty that this is what I meant to do in this lifetime.
I am here to connect with people , I’m not trying to follow a trend or anything . I’m just doing what feels right at the moment . It’s a long journey and the path to success is rocky . Consistency and love is always the way to go .

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Journey of the Soul opened my eyes to the idea that we’re here for a reason — that our experiences, even the hard ones, are part of a bigger purpose. That perspective gave me a sense of peace and direction, especially during moments of doubt. It helped me trust my path as an artist, even when it didn’t make sense to others — or even to me, at times. I began to see music as more than just a career choice; it became a spiritual calling, a way to express and heal not just myself, but others too.

Think Like a Monk helped me ground that purpose in daily practice. It reminded me to let go of comparison, embrace stillness, and create from a place of authenticity. That book taught me how to protect my energy, stay focused on what really matters, and stay aligned with my core values — even in an industry that can sometimes pull you in different directions.

Together, these books helped me evolve not just as an artist, but as a person. They pushed me to dig deeper, to create with more intention, and to stay connected to who I really am — beyond the noise, the opinions, or the pressure to conform.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Jeremy David Creative

Suggest a Story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in local stories