Ashley Mehta (Singer-Songwriter) | Renegades
Melding cultures and genres into a new perspective
Welcome to Renegades, a series spotlighting Asian Pacific leaders and creatives who are carving their own paths and defying stereotypes along the way. This week’s Renegade is singer-songwriter Ashley Mehta. Originally from the Bay Area, Mehta blends pop, R&B, hip hop, and electronic music to create a unique sound all her own. Her latest single, Self Destruction Mode, is available on all streaming platforms.
What did you want to be when you were growing up, and how does that compare to what you do today?
Growing up I always dreamed of being a pop star. I was always shy and afraid to say it out loud, but inside I would always envision it. To be where I am today, creating music and performing my original music live is very surreal. My younger self (and current self) is definitely screaming of joy!
Your unique heritage of being both Indian and Filipina must have had a profound influence on your upbringing and music. Could you share how this blend of cultures shaped your musical journey and contributed to your distinctive sound?
Coming from both Indian and Filipina backgrounds, both of these cultures have definitely shaped my musical journey. The energy of both of these cultures and the welcoming community they bring, pushes me to create music that feels the same way. My goal is to create music that is going to help others in one way or another. To be able to represent both of my communities is huge for me. I feel like growing up I didn’t really see many brown girls on TV screens which played a role in how I didn’t know if pursuing music was something I could do. I want to be someone that other young ones can look at and know that they can do it too. I feel very blessed to be a part of such amazing cultures.
You have a knack for reinventing existing songs by changing up the verses, showcasing your creativity. Can you share the process behind this, and how do you ensure to keep the essence of the original while infusing it with your unique flair?
The process behind my verses is super fun for me because I like to write in new perspectives. I would like to call myself an empath and I definitely utilize this when I write these lyrics. I imagine how each party in the song would feel whether it’s about love, self-worth, etc. We all go through such similar experiences and they can be told in many different ways. When it comes to melody, I typically freestyle over the instrumental and see what feels that best. Sometimes I’ll freestyle and end up writing the majority of the verse. This is how I ensure that the essence of the original track is kept while it still has a unique flair.
From collaborating with major brands like Nike to being featured on Spotify and Amazon Music playlists, and now touring, you’ve achieved a lot in your career. How do you define success as an artist, and what milestones are you aiming for next?
I would define success as an artist through impact. I wake up every morning and my goal is to really be the best version of myself each day. With everything I do or accomplish I want there to be intention. On top of this I would say that I definitely have set goals for myself and this also correlates to my success. I feel like my brain is always moving and always looking forward while staying grateful for everything that I have been able to achieve thus far. Next, I definitely am aiming towards more tours, festivals and dropping new music. I also am aiming to continue working with such amazing brands that I am in love with!
Every artist has their muse. Who have been your musical inspirations, and who are on your wishlist for dream collaborations? Could you share why and how they have influenced your music?
Growing up I would always listen to the radio and whatever was top 40! My musical inspirations would be Kehlani, Justin Bieber, & Ariana Grande. The way they created their sound definitely plays a role in how I create music today. Kehlani is also from the Bay Area and the Bay energy is definitely felt and showcased in her music. Justin Bieber’s versatility shows his wide range in music. He has created RnB, Pop and Hip Hop records that all show his talent. Ariana Grande created a sweet recipe for her sound. Her vocal harmonies and vocal production plays an influence on how I create today.
In an industry often driven by ever-changing trends, how do you strike a balance between staying true to your roots and evolving with contemporary sounds? Has there been a moment when you felt pressured to compromise your authenticity for market appeal?
I find balance in staying true to my roots and evolving with contemporary sounds by simply making sure I enjoy everything I create. I think that as long as I am having fun and have good intentions about everything I do, there will always be that balance. When I create ideas I choose actions that will get me out of my comfort zone but also bring some sort of familiarity. There may have been times where I have felt pressured to compromise my authenticity for market appeal but staying true to my mindset of authenticity, I don’t typically allow myself to go down that rabbit hole.
Women continue to be underrepresented in the music industry. In your journey, where have you felt this disparity the most, and do you believe there are still barriers to be broken? How do you perceive the evolving music scene in Asia in this context?
I would say that I have felt this disparity the most being in some meetings or studios. I believe that there are still barriers to be broken. In this context, I see the evolving music scene in Asia in a positive light. I think a lot of girl groups and empowering women in the industry are breaking through. The support we have for one another is also endless and plays a huge role in breaking these barriers.
What are you currently working on that’s exciting you the most?
I am really excited for all the new music I am working on and planning to drop an EP very soon. I am also writing a lot of songs that bring out a more vulnerable side of me and I’m excited to share this with the World!
Lightning Round
Daily habit
Meditating
Most productive time of the day
Mornings
Adobo or Butter Chicken?
Adobo
Fun fact
I can do a Stitch impression!
Most used emoji
Lip bite 🫦
Eras Tour or Renaissance?
Eras Tour