ASHWARYA

ASHWARYA

Get to know ASHWARYA, the indepedent, dynamic Melbourne-based singer known for her unique fusion of genres, blending pop, electronic, and R&B with nods to her Indian heritage.

Songs like PSYCHO HOLE and BIRYANI showcase her versatility, combining catchy melodies with relatable lyrical themes.

ASHWARYA's innovative sound, sharp production, and vibrant visuals, combined with her cultural roots, makes her one to watch in the global music landscape.

Photographed by Radhika Muthanna

Styled by Joy Appiah

Interviewed by Arhantika Rebello

Ashwarya is wearing Shiami, Maxim O’Sullivan, and Atika London

How did your journey with music begin?

I always wanted to be performing on a stage since I was a kid but it was only until I started song-writing I knew that music was something I wanted to pursue seriously. It became a means of therapy for me and It was kinda the only thing that interested me to be honest, and the only thing that allowed me to express myself in the best way.

I released my first single right in the middle of the pandemic so life as an artist trying start out felt really unpredictable but I’m so glad I did it at that time because it allowed me to work out different days to fulfill my vision like shooting music videos in my house to connecting with my audience on social media. It all felt kinda surreal. I think cut to now - I've continued to grow and cultivate my sound without compromising experimenting and finding new ways to showcase my creativity.

I'm so excited for what's to come. The future feels good.

Being an independent artist comes with a lot of freedom but also constraints. Talk to us about being an independent artist and how you navigate this!

To have complete control over everything feels really empowering, and ofcourse it comes with its adversities but there is nothing more fulfilling than being able to call the shots and form meaningful relationships with other creatives that go beyond just a project but those that are long lasting, leaving room for endless creativity.

I think there's always going to be that little voice in your head that keeps telling you otherwise, especially when you’re independent. But I think that as long as you continue to back yourself and push yourself to create your own destiny - everything will come together. I’ve always tried to keep this mentality and have a relentless approach towards fulfilling my vision - independent or not.

What inspires you and your music?

Ooft so many things! The Bollywood films I was raised on. The early 2000s music. The experiences I've lived through. I like to write presently. I think our subconscious plays such a big role in creating magic so I allow myself to express exactly how I’m feeling in the moment. There's nothing more rewarding when that translates to something that feels inspired and authentic.

As a fellow South Asian, I really appreciate the part your heritage plays in your music. Why was it important to not shy away from that?

I’ve never felt the need to shy away from something that was innately a part of my identity so I felt like wherever it felt authentic and natural, that part of me would feed into my creativity! Growing up in an Indian household with a strong cultural influence from my parents and grandparents have always helped me stay rooted to my culture.

Bollywood film and music, in particular, played a big role somewhere subconsciously when I write. Also I think being surrounded by a multicultural society in Australia has always allowed me to feel like I could draw from so many diverse experiences and references when approaching my music.

What do you hope to achieve through your music as you progress in your journey?

I wanna build my own world step by step and create an environment for my audience to feel accepted and comfortable. My music will be the foundation for so many other things that I want to achieve in the future like creating my own brand, my visual world and a space for me to connect with more people as I play more shows around the world one day.

What advice do you have for up and coming artists?

I’d say no matter who tells you otherwise, always follow your gut instinct and don’t overthink it. I learnt this early on, not to go in with a set plan like, ‘today i'm gonna try and write this typa song’. When you go in with an open mind and heart, the rest will follow through because as artists we have the potential to improvise and express presently - and what comes out of that can truly be magic! Instinct is key.

Another thing I'd say is truly back yourself and your vision. Don’t let anyone alter it or compromise it. Just stay true to yourself - It’s all mindset in the end.

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