Meet Ashlei Brianne | Musician & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashlei Brianne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashlei, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’m going to nerd out a bit- balance by definition, is the distribution of the visual weight of objects, like colors, texture, and space/sound. These elements are in balance when the feel/ space/ sound feels stable.

Balance is completely different for us all. For myself, some things have remained a constant, and other things I adjust till it feels right. As the years go by I have learned to evaluate aspects of life in accordance of how they make me feel on a physical, mental and emotional level- balance right? Sleep and eating nutritious foods has been a real hero for me. With my busy schedule I rely on keeping good energy so I can remain focused and creative even when I’m going at 100 mph, or so it feels some days. I cut out time for myself to simply “be”. I refuel by having an afternoon carved out to read, or patio hangs with the fam and friends. It changes like the seasons here in Colorado, and I’ve learned to embrace that, and honor myself by providing whatever it is I feel I need to stay in balance.

Please tell us more about your career. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I am a singer/songwriter/musician/creative, I have been singing for as long as I can remember and started writing music and playing guitar in college. I didn’t start actively recording music until 2017. I learned a lot through that process and because I am an independent artist there is so much to absorb. I will forever be learning new things within the industry.

I am currently writing for my debut album! I am super stoked for you guys to hear these songs! I want the world to know that my intention with this album is to give you all the feels. I have grown into my style and vibe artistically and I can’t wait to share this process with you all. It’s a major work of love and such a journey. I want you to feel this music, not just listen to it, I want this feeling to be yours. Getting to this place artistically, has been a major spiritual experience, especially being so vulnerable with my writing.

I will be honest, self critique has definitely  held me back in some ways, I would be lying if I said it’s all been amazing and easy and great. NO- there have been so many hurdles I have had to navigate, but its those times that have shaped me and taught me who I am, and what I really want. Overcoming challenges by keeping my heart open and nourishing the important things in my life- with a coffee or whiskey sour in hand.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
K so obviously we all know Denver is growing at an insane pace. I always laugh because being a native there are times I feel like a tourist when I’m strolling through Denver. There are SO many awesome new spots, too many to keep up with! But these are a few spots you would be guaranteed to find me at…. Red Rocks- get a good sweat in during the day- where my runners at?! Come evening, the most fun tailgating prior to epic shows. The lineup at Red Rocks never disappoints, they also play movies “Film on the Rocks” during the summer which gives me all the feels. Postinos- for the cutest charcuterie boards and the best happy hour in town! Park Burger before a Rockies baseball game is an awesome spot for burgers and boozy milkshakes! Plus they always rock large groups and make it super easy. Grabbing an ice cream from Sweet Cooie’s, their flavors never disappoint, and the vintage aesthetic is so fun! Going to the Drive Inn is and will always be one of my favorite summer things to do. I feel nostalgic whenever we go, and a movie in the back of the 4Runner with 22 blankets never gets old. Denver Botanic Gardens because who doesn’t love to be surrounded by 24 acres of plants from all corners of the world. It’s a great escape within the city. Ocean Prime for a fancy dress up dinner, they have the best cocktails and super fresh seafood! Sushi Den or Sushi Okura are my go-to spots for Sushi. Venturing out west is always on the list. A good hike always makes for a great day, the Rocky Mountains are so vast and unbelievably beautiful-never gets old!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to all my good vibin’ fans, those who have been there with me since day 1. You guys have cultivated such an incredible tribe where we can all laugh, vibe, and support each other through music. I love seeing familiar faces at shows and connecting through socials, especially during this 2020 pandemic. You guys are a constant, and mean so much to me- so THANK YOU for all of your support over the years! I LOVE YOU GUYS!

One of my favorite poets is Robert M. Drake, I have to shout him out because his words always bring such inspiration and beauty to these uncertain times. One of my favorites by him is “Beautiful Chaos” – check it out!

Lastly, shout out to the hubs! This guys is always there supporting my crazy ideas. He is the muscle when I need help lugging music gear from gig to gig. He is always front row and center cheering me on-hands down my biggest fan, and I love him even more for his constant support!

Website: ashleibrianne.com
Instagram: ashlei.brianne
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleibriannemusic
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClT8VWV8r5ZMj4F_6bNY3wg

Image Credits
-Reilly McCluskey -Tyler Holbein -SimplyLoveCo