Dainfern singer aims for the stars
DAINFERN – The 21-year-old Dainfern resident Ashlinn Gray has an edgy and brave sound as she releases her latest track, STFU.
It’s all about growing up, trying new things and making music that’s a true reflection of her personality for Ashlinn Gray.
The 21-year-old singer/songwriter from Dainfern has been part of the music industry since she was 16 years old and released a brand new single, STFU, on 25 January.
The new track comes after a year of big change as Gray moved to Los Angeles, USA, to sign with BTB Management and grow her overseas fandom. The song, produced with Abe Dertner, is all about ignoring the hate in the world and owning up to who you are.
“It definitely stands for what you think it stands for,” she told the Fourways Review. “It’s all about not paying mind to the naysayers and haters and really owning your life story.
“I’ve had to go through a lot to get to where I am today and no one can take that away from me. So often we listen to all the negativity and it’s time we stop and keep doing what makes us happy.”
Gray said while she’s always had an edge to her personality, she only managed to incorporate that aspect to her music once she became braver and more willing to take risks. However, she doesn’t believe it will alienate long-standing fans who have never heard this side of her before.
“STFU is a bit different to what you’ve previously heard from me but it still has the same message I’ve always stood for: Keep believing in yourself and don’t listen to the negative thoughts or things people say to bring you down.”
While moving away from her home and family was difficult, Gray has used the last year abroad to learn about herself, grow and focus on performing and writing.
“At the end of the day, I’m still 21 and had a lot of learning to do. I wanted to really work on a sound that most authentically expresses who I am and what I’m thinking.”
It’s been a great chance to grow on stage as well, as Gray got to perform at the Hotel Cafe, one of the most popular venues in the LA area.
She hasn’t forgotten about her roots though and will be back on South African soil. “I’ll definitely be doing an SA tour [later this year] and I can’t wait to bring out all the music I’ve been working on!”
You can hear her new track, STFU, online at Spotify, iTunes, Amazon and Soundcloud.
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/fourways-review/242654/ashlinn-gray-releases-new-single-2/
