Wednesday 16 February 2011

Videos, Vices, and Shifting Vistas...

Okay, not really vices, I just wanted another "V" word. Unless you consider procrastination a vice, in which case I, indeed, am afflicted. I have been trying to write a new post for a while now...I don't know whether or not you are expecting one, or wanting one, or care either way, for that matter. The fact is, that I care. I have been needing to write, wanting to write, intending to write, but life keeps getting in the way - or rather, I haven't been making creativity a priority lately. There has been so much planning, negotiating, organizing, promoting, booking, recording, etc. happening, that I have been seriously lacking a quality creative outlet. In an effort to make right with the universe, here I am again.
There have been many ch-ch-changes and many big decisions being made in my life as of late. The biggest, and the one most responsible for a quickly widening ripple effect on the rest of it, is that I quit my job as a backup singer for a certain pop star who's name begins with a "Rih" and rhymes with "we wanna." Disclaimer: I loved that job. Obviously it was pretty much the coolest thing in which a girl could dream of being involved. I was able to sing my way around the world several times over, AND they paid me for it. At times, I felt a little guilty, like a reluctant thief...don't they know I would pay for this experience??? So, why quit, you ask? I'll tell you, it was not an easy decision. What it comes down to is this: I am not a backup singer. I write songs. People like them sometimes. I sing, and when I do, people smile and clap. I started to believe that I belonged in the shadows, supporting someone else's voice/dream/passion. I realized that, as much fun as I was having out on the road, there was a void that could not be filled by bright lights, ancient cities and tour buses. A huge part of my soul was missing, and that hole was growing smaller by the day due to neglect. I was forgetting.
So I made a music video, and I put out a single on itunes. It is a small step, but if you could see the effort behind the shifting of direction, you wouldn't discount it. Here's the video, if you'd like to see it, and below that is a link to BUY the song on the inter web. Hint, hint. :)


Rainbow Killer on itunes

I can't wait to show you what else I have been working on! There are some very exciting things that I'm not quite allowed to tell yet, but soon soon.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for reading, for sharing, and for stopping by to say hello. My hope for you this week is that you finish everything you set out to accomplish, because damn, it feels good to be a gangsta.

6 comments:

  1. I can imagine that must have been a huge decision to leave the "comfort and security" of being a backing singer for one of the world's biggest stars, the experiences and travels etc

    Anyway wishing you lots of luck
    The song is great - personally not so keen on the video but thats just personal, I do like the song, catchy chorus
    All the best of luck

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  2. Well, I for one have been silently creeping on your blog waiting for a new entry so I guess now I got my wish. :)

    I'm going to be honest, I was very much saddened by the news of you leaving the Mad House because I was hoping I could meet you when Rihanna comes back to do a show here in the Philippines. But I understand, you belong to the center stage. And I'm happy that you've finally taken that big step towards your dream. I'm very much looking forward to hearing more of your songs soon! More power and may God bless you!

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  3. Ashleigh,
    Congrats on finding the courage to listen to you heart! Only good things can come!
    Love and blessings to you on your way!
    xo
    Katie (Mojica) Bystedt

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  4. All great video, amazing song. I haven't been following you for long, but have been waiting for this moment. For me cause I love your music, but more for you. You needed to do this, you are a "front" person. All the luck to you, but with your talent luck kind of takes a back seat. I would love to get a first run autographed CD.

    -Jay

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  5. Hello, Ashleigh.
    My first reaction to your leaving Rihanna's team was "What is she doing? Is she crazy to quit this job?" I was so sad. But then I remembered your words about dreams. You said "NEVER forget about your dreams. Keep working and living every day toward them, and for them..."
    You have so beautiful voice. You are talented as songwriter and singer. And you deserve much more than being backup singer.
    GOOD LUCK on your way!!!
    And waiting for a new post
    Helen

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  6. Just to edit on my original post above
    When I say I didnt like the video, thats not to say that it isnt an excellent video, very professionally done, edited, filmed, shot etc
    I just mean it was a bit lovey-dovey "dull" for me, personally, but I know these things arent cheap and its your first one!! So just wanted to say sorry, no offence intended, but the song is cool. Maybe more rainbows in the rainbow video!!

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