Meet Ashley Aurora | Rapper/Singer/Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Aurora and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Art in general, namely music and film, has always had a special hold on me, my imagination & my life. I can’t remember the day I learned to ride a bike and I couldn’t tell you what any of the books I read in school were about, but I still remember all my favorite songs from childhood word-for-word. I’m blessed in that I knew from a very early age that music and performance in general was my calling. The effect that my favorite artists growing up like Britney Spears, Beyonce and later on, Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga, had on me is astronomical. Music can motivate you, make you feel like a bad bitch, and reach you in very deep ways. It’s always been beautiful to me, the thought of being able to have this effect on others, to make magic for a living.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I never felt like I belonged on planet Earth, it’s a good chance I’m not from here for real! But I always knew that I had a purpose here regardless, to share art and music with the world. Although I was born in Chicago I spent every day dreaming and scheming, creating a path toward living in LA as a successful artist. Coming from an average town and background, I can’t say it was easy at all. There are lots of barriers to entry in my industry, and I had to make some sacrifices for sure. Being a woman in music also comes with its additional unique challenges. But I’d die before letting any of that stop me. I’m grateful to be in a position where today, I’m living the life I manifested as a child. Recording my bangers out of a top studio, working with insanely talented artists and producers, and preparing to launch the debut project of my dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles is full of action, especially now that the pandemic seems to be winding down around here. We have some of the best sushi and Mexican food in the world, great shopping at Rodeo Drive, Century City and the Beverly Center, some fun beach spots in Manhattan Beach & Redondo… and Newport/Laguna Beach are just a short drive down south to Orange County.

For nightlife, I’m not much of a club person. I prefer house parties! But I gotta give a shout out to the Highlight Room over at the Dream Hotel in Hollywood. They are always so good to me & my people there! And the vibes are on point day and night. Wednesday night is probably my favorite night there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, the ladies I listed in my previous answer deserve a ton of credit for inspiring me, giving me strength, & bringing light into my life when no one else would. However, I have to shoutout my lovely mother as well. She made a lot of sacrifices for me growing up, and there’s no way I’d be where I am today without her. Thanks Mom! And I have to shoutout my team that has been working with me on my debut project and supporting all the way. Ayex, my manager has gone above and beyond helping bring my vision to life, and Jay Baumgardner at NRG Studios has been mixing all my music. Appreciate all these people and so many more, now it’s time to get it!

Website: ashleyaurora.com

Instagram: @imashleyaurora

Other: TikTok: @imashleyaurora