ASHY, pronounced “Ahh-She,” continues to rise as one of Aotearoa’s most exciting pop exports, pushing the boundaries of genre and emotional storytelling. Hailing from Christchurch, New Zealand, ASHY’s journey has been marked by shimmering vocals, bold stylistic choices, and a devotion to crafting songs that resonate with depth and polish. With over 3.5 million streams under her belt and credits that include working with renowned producers such as Josh Fountain, Ben Wylen, Adrian Breakspear, and Sam Trevethick, ASHY’s artistry is both internationally relevant and distinctly her own.
Following the release of her debut EP Status in 2023—an ambitious and chart-topping introduction—ASHY has continued to build momentum on stages and in studios around the world. From her electric performances at New Zealand’s Electric Avenue and multiple showcases at SXSW Austin and Sydney, to being spotlighted by Rolling Stone Australia as one of the ‘8 Kiwi Artists Tipped to Takeover,’ her impact is undeniable. The EP’s standout tracks, including “No Man’s Land” and “Do Not Disturb,” not only hit top chart positions but also captured the attention of audiences far beyond her home country.
Her latest single, “Sweeter,” featuring Nashville-based rapper Jarrod Gipson, marks a sultry return to her R&B roots. Written during a songwriting trip to Nashville following her second consecutive SXSW Texas appearance, the track reflects ASHY’s evolution into a more introspective and sonically textured space. “Sweeter” wasn’t just another studio session—it was a moment born out of vulnerability and unexpected connection. After a long stretch of travel and fatigue, ASHY found herself on a night out, low on confidence but met with warmth, energy, and unexpected conversations that inspired a shift in perspective. That experience directly shaped the message of the song: to lean into possibility even when you don’t feel your best, and to recognize the value in showing up for yourself.
Crafted alongside producer Aaron—who was recommended by her Kiwi peer Geoff, known for producing “Girls We Got It”—and co-writer Jarrod Gipson, the track blends ASHY’s smooth melodic sensibility with Jarrod’s compelling lyrical flow. ASHY, who cites SZA, Ariana Grande, Victoria Monét, and Kali Uchis as R&B inspirations, found a unique synergy in this collaboration, allowing Jarrod to tell the other side of the story, adding nuance and emotional range to the song. The chemistry in the room made it clear that this track would be something special, and ASHY notes it remains one of her favorite pieces off her upcoming project.
“Sweeter” follows a string of recent releases including the dreamy “Ottoman,” the cheeky “Gucci & Louis,” and a reimagining of Drax Project’s “All This Time.” It’s a further testament to her versatility and fearless experimentation within the pop and R&B spheres. Her career continues to pick up steam with key milestones: sync placements in Emmy-nominated Grown-ish and Aussie favorite Home and Away, an APRA Songhubs invite, a performance slot at The Great Escape UK, and a tour opening for Drax Project.
ASHY is more than a pop star on the rise—she’s a musical shapeshifter with the rare ability to make polished, hook-laden tracks feel intimate and personal. Her newest work doesn’t just signal a sonic shift; it hints at an artist becoming even more unapologetically herself. As she continues to grow her audience globally, “Sweeter” offers both a look inward and a signal outward: ASHY is ready to take the world by storm, one glittering, heartfelt track at a time.
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