Striding confidently into Nashville’s competitive music scene in 2019, Ashland Craft has rapidly transformed from hesitant songwriter to one of country music’s most promising voices. The South Carolina native initially visited Music City with a singular focus on singing, viewing her early songwriting attempts as mediocre at best.
However, after immersing herself in Nashville’s collaborative creative culture, Craft experienced a pivotal shift in perspective that would redefine her artistic identity. The singer’s breakthrough came with her 2018 composition “In Between,” a turning point that helped her recognize songwriting as a powerful vehicle for emotional expression.
Nashville’s collaborative spirit transformed Craft, revealing songwriting as her emotional compass and true artistic voice.
Within just one year of relocating to Nashville full-time, Craft secured both a publishing deal with 50 Egg Music and a recording contract with Big Loud Records, achievements that typically take artists years to accomplish. Her prior Top 10 placement on NBC’s “The Voice” Season 13 provided valuable industry credibility, opening doors that might otherwise have remained closed. She credits former coach Miley Cyrus for boosting her confidence and providing invaluable mentorship during this critical period.
Craft’s debut album showcased both her distinctive vocal abilities and evolving songwriting prowess, while her follow-up release, “Dive Bar Beauty Queen,” cemented her reputation for authentic country storytelling. Singles like “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine” and “Trainwreck” highlight her narrative style, characterized by emotional depth and spirited country energy that resonates with fans and critics alike. Her dedication to consistent releases has been instrumental in building a loyal fanbase, a strategy recommended for independent artists seeking long-term success. Her current single “Trainwreck” is particularly meaningful as it reflects a vulnerable personal conversation from a female perspective while appealing to listeners of all genders.
Years spent performing in Nashville’s dive bars honed Craft’s magnetic stage presence, building a grassroots following that continues to expand through tours alongside established country artists. Her performances emphasize emotional sincerity, creating genuine connections with audiences across the country. Beyond live shows, Craft has begun exploring sync deals for her music, recognizing the substantial income potential from placements in television and film.
As one of Music Row’s most energetic emerging artists, Craft represents a new wave of female singer-songwriters confidently blending traditional country with contemporary grit. Her dual role as performer and songwriter strengthens her industry position beyond that of a typical recording artist, marking her as a multifaceted talent whose influence in country music continues to grow with each release and performance.
