Lagos is about to be set ablaze by the infectious sounds of Ashny, a fast-rising artist from Koffi Tha Guru Fun Music. With a new single set to drop soon, the talented singer is already creating buzz in the industry. In a recent conversation with Salient Times Newspaper, Ashny opened up to Esther Egbe about her journey into music, her inspirations, and how he has been instrumental in shaping her budding career.
Can we meet you?
My name is Ashionye Charity Edike Popularly known as Ashny Aka Charchar Aka The Jaguar With A Charm Aka Enter body
What inspired you to become a singer, and who are some of your biggest influences?
Music has always been my thing, it runs in my vein. Before I went into music professionally, I use to trade in the fish business at Ijora 7up market. The habit of me always singing made the people around to put the impress upon my sister to take my music seriously. But before all of that, Beyoncé has always been my greatest influence.
Can you tell us about your early days as a pop artist?
I started in 2013 with my first single “Rule Ma world”. I tried shopping around for a record deal but couldn’t get one. My manager at the time, Mr Henry would knock on doors and take me around with his car so as to help me cushion the effect of the hardship eventually I got a record deal and was able to record more songs but never got an album out. I met Mr.Koffi Tha Guru at the end of 2015 and in 2016. He started to encourage and feature me in his works. Officially in 2019 he released my first EP called ‘Rough Play’. A collection of some of my old recordings and new ones that couldn’t get finished properly but still good to the ears.
How did you get started, and what were some of the challenges you faced?
The usual struggle up and coming artiste’s face. Finance. Rejection. Feeling hopeless. I had to save up every penny to get going.
How do you think your music reflects your personality, and what do you hope listeners take away from your songs?
My music is an extension of my inner world, so I think it definitely reflects who I am. I try to make sense of the world around me. So I write songs that are honest, raw, and sometimes vulnerable, because I believe that’s where true connection happens. Whether it’s exploring struggles with self-doubt, or moments of triumph, I want listeners to feel that they’re not alone in their experiences. What I hope people take away from my songs is a sense of comfort and empowerment. Music has always been a way for me to process my emotions and find clarity, and I want my listeners to be able to do the same. If they can find meaning or solace in the lyrics, or if a song can uplift them when they need it most, that would mean everything to me.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, have you faced any challenges or biases? How have you overcome them?
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry comes with its challenges, whether it’s being underestimated or having to work harder to prove myself. But I’ve learned to stay focused on my craft, trust my voice, and surround myself with supportive people. I believe in my music and my vision, and that confidence has helped me break through any barriers.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a music career?
To never give up. Just keep going.
Can you walk us through your songwriting process? How do you come up with ideas, and what inspires your lyrics?
Inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere. I can make music out of any subject matter. I observe and reflect a lot and this helps a lot.
How do you approach collaborations with other artists? What do you look for in a collaborator, and how do you ensure that the final product is something you’re proud of?
I look for collaborators who share a similar passion for creativity and authenticity and of course good message.
What’s your favorite song that you’ve written, and why is it so meaningful to you?
Jewel. Because it speaks about woman emancipation .
How has your music evolved over time, and what do you think has contributed to that growth?
The replay value of my songs are incomparable with great lyrics that speaks to my listeners soul. I have grown from the young shy girl to the bold woman with words that can uplift and motivate others.
What are your goals for the next year, both personally and professionally? How do you see your music fitting into those plans?
Working working working. More album and Ep releases. I have a movie coming on January 1st ‘Birth Of A Nightingale’ alongside the final copy of my new album ‘Femme Fatale:The Definition Of Char Char’. Plans are also underway to release the deluxe edition of my previous album Ashny Ain’t Playing’. As the year progresses I will be featuring in more movies and also expand my ‘Ashionye’ fashion brand.
What message do you hope to convey to your fans through your music, and how do you engage with them to ensure that the message is resonating?
The Ashny music is deeply rooted in hope, life, happiness, and being good. My music is bright and engaging. Loaded with messages on how to be better to one another. I love to engage by making my music a reflection of today’s realities and I encourage them to keep listening to good music with meaningful lyrics which is mostly lacking nowadays.
If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Its a long list. But I’ll start by saying Beyoncé and Asa. Because they affect me deep within and inspire me to get better.
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you on tour or at a show?
A legend Uncle Yemi Shodimu saw my performance and couldn’t resist a tango with me and asked the Dj to replay my song.
If you weren’t a musician , what would you be doing instead?
Focus more on my fashion design work, as that’s where my creativity thrives. And I’m passionate about other businesses as well
So long it brings in the cash.
