We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashley Toman. Check out our conversation below.
Ashley , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I think we live in such a fast paced world, where life can feel as if it’s moving so quickly that we don’t stop to smell the roses or appreciate the little things. Lately, I’ve found joy in the smallest of things- like watching birds in a flock or admiring the sunset from my balcony or catching up with someone i haven’t spoken to in a while. Appreciating that every single moment in time is aligned for a reason. I truly believe that every single person we meet there is purpose in meeting them which can either be a lesson or a blessing, and we have to know the difference. I am practicing living in the present moment rather than fixating on the past or being anxious for the future. I think finding joy in little moments is what makes life beautiful. I look back and realize it was sometimes just a tiny moment in time is now a memory I hold onto forever, so cherishing all of the little things. That has brought me joy lately. Appreciating life a bit more. Realizing that waking up to see another day, everyday is a blessing. And there is definitely joy in that realization!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ashley Toman, I am a pop/R&B recording artist and songwriter who also is a business owner where I offer services such as co-writing, songwriting, vocal coaching and consulting. The journey has changed quite a bit in the past decade, but im so grateful to be where I am today and grateful for the ups and downs which has led me to where I am at today! I feel I wear several hats, but I truly wouldn’t have it any other way. I love being in the studio but I also love the gift of songwriting that i discovered later on along the journey. I also love being able to help other creatives by offering different services and helping them grow in their careers. It’s not only been a blessing financially but it’s rewarding as well! There are days when I have my artist hat on and im focused on dropping my next song, others when im focusing on songwriting and attending writing camps, and others when the goal is strictly to be there for my clients. It changes daily, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Oh I love this question! When I was fresh on the scene in Houston I think one thing about me everyone can agree upon, was that I was hungry for success, to be seen and heard. Well, I think it’s safe to say I did do that but almost to an exhausting level. Years of agreeing to every show, feeling like I had to say yes no matter what, attending every networking event I found, being out on the scene almost every night, and then doing it all over again in LA has a way of tiring your spirit.
I believe it did serve its purpose, and I not only made a name for myself in Houston & LA- but I also did it with no official management. The trajectory of my career has changed a lot & I am grateful for the way it’s realigned. I no longer say yes if it feels like it’s weighing on my spirit. Nothing is worth your peace of mind! I always felt conflicted with making the decision to live in LA full time and it was as if my mind was saying “you have to be there to be successful” but my spirit was saying otherwise. So to answer your question, I think those years of doing anything and everything to just be seen and heard did serve a purpose but I definitely released it many years ago.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Oh wow- so many things I wish I could say to her. Mainly that she is beautiful and talented and to let her know the journey ahead isn’t going to be easy, but as long as she keeps going and keeps her head up she’s going to be okay. I would remind her there’s going to be a lot of people who will try to dim your light, but don’t ever let that change the core of your spirit. I think being in an industry like music, it’s easy to lose yourself in a way and im glad that I never lost my spark.
I always think of my inner child and protecting her along the way. I hope that who I am today would make my younger self proud!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
To focus on the numbers and fitting the trends rather than just being authentically you. Of course marketing matters and numbers don’t lie, but in order to truly reach people in an authentic way, the best tool will always be authenticity and being genuinely the real you and not trying to fit into the mold of what you think people want to hear. That won’t last. Trends fade and people move onto the next big thing. I think even if you have a small following, focus on being authentic to that following and being you, more people will come and it’ll be a dynamo effect rather than trying to become someone you aren’t just for something temporary, especially if isn’t even someone you align with. Just focus on making art that feels aligned within your spirit because chances are if you love it, you’ll find others who do as well.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
Similar to the question above, I know personally if im not doing something I feel aligned with, I will regret that. I always want to feel aligned within my purpose, my gifts, my passions etc. if it feels off, it is off. I’m not saying everything in life is perfect because obviously it’s not- however, I do regret not doing things that make my soul feel alive. Those are the things I want to go after, and I believe in alignment and if im not walking in purpose or following my heart, then of course that’s something I’ll regret. So I try to focus on that daily that no matter what at least im following my heart- as cliche as that may sound.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: AshleyToman
- Twitter: @ashleytoman
- Facebook: AshleyTomanMusic
