Artist of the Day | ASH RAVENS
ARTIST OF THE DAY
14.10.2021
ASH RAVENS
LOCATION
Ottawa, ON, Canada
GENRE
Rock/Indie Rock/Pop-Rock
CURRENT MEMBERS
Solo Artist
With the current pandemic, the state of the music and touring industry has dramatically changed. Where were you when everything was brought to a halt?
I was in Melbourne, Australia when the whole world came to a grinding stop. I was getting ready for an exciting new year of music when the pandemic hit.
How has that affected your plans for the coming year? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?
I had a slew of singles that were ready to be released in 2020, which I had to postpone given the emotional climate of the world. Apart from my own music, I also produce, mix and master studio recordings, and operate live sound for several other bands and venues, and all of that were also cancelled at one strike.
What have you been doing to fill/make the most of your new-found free time at home? How are you supporting your mental health through all of this?
After the initial surprise and anxiety related to the pandemic and lock-downs subsided a little bit, I threw myself into music even more than I would in a "normal" year. I went back to the woodshed so to speak, to improve my playing, singing, and writing. I wrote a whole bunch of songs in this time which I am hoping to release in 2021 and 2022. I spent a lot of time doing cover songs on YouTube, scoring small film clips for my friends, and reading books. Afternoon naps were also a big part of the year for me haha!
Thank you for asking about the mental health aspect. Fortunately, towards the beginning of the pandemic, I somehow stumbled upon the singer-songwriter Jewel's work and website on mental health named "Never Broken". She has created this absolutely amazing method of dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, panic attacks and overall mental health that had a huge part in helping me cope with the pandemic. Gratitude journals were also a big part of reminding myself how we take things for granted - like a fridge full of food, or not losing a loved one to the pandemic. It firmly grounded me.
As things are reopening & restrictions are lifting have you booked any new gigs? Tours? Etc? If your region is still under restriction, how are dealing with the Covid third wave?
I am in Ottawa, Ontario now and this region has been slowly opening up. I am in the process of talking to venues about new gigs and/or tours at the moment. I am working with Eric Alper about my future releases and works.
Favourite Starlite Room Moment?
I'm a vinyl fan and I love the Cups N' Cakes Vinyl Unveil Show!
Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?
Please support local, indie music - we need it the most! Be safe, and remember to be thankful for what you already have on your way to reach for the stars!
If you would like to be our next ARTIST OF THE DAY please fill out this FORM & send a high resolution photo to:
JEN@CONCERTWORKS.CA