Photographer: Steven Simone Creative Director: Mikey Minden
Stylist: Melvin Sanders Hair: Rachel Lita
Makeup: James Michael Perez Dress Brand: Ella Zahlan
Born and raised in Southern New Jersey, Ashlee discovered her love for music at a young age. She made her Broadway debut at only 6-years-old, playing ‘Gretl’ in the national tour of “The Sound of Music” . Shortly after, she was cast as the lead role of “Annie” at the famous Walnut Street Theater in Philadelphia. Ashlee has since been seen as a contestant on CBS’ “Star Search”, a member of Radio Disney’s “Up and Coming Artist” Incubator Program , in acting roles in movies such as “The Bandit Hound”, and with her holiday single “Ice Kingdom” featured in Coca-Cola’s ‘52 Songs of Happiness’ campaign.
Ashlee loves to use her platform for good, giving back to philanthropic organizations supporting women empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community. Over the years, she has worked closely with GLAAD, Girl Up, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Outside of her music career, Ashlee likes to stay active with her passions for fashion, dancing, Pilates, make-up, traveling, and fitness. She also loves spending time with her Pomeranian puppy Koko.
You are from South Jersey (East Coast in the House)! Tell us how was that growing up? What type of music did you listen to as a kid?
AYEEE !! Lol. Yes, I am a Jersey girl at heart. I listened to all types of music to be honest, but I really listened to a lot of R&B and hip hop, as well as the pop icons/hits.
You have also been on Star Search. Amazing . How did you get selected for this?
Thank you! I had gone to an open call I believe, and I kept getting more calls/callbacks. I remember being at home in New Jersey, in the kitchen with my mom and getting a phone call not knowing who it was. It was the producers of Star Search telling us I was selected for the show, and they were flying us out to LA the next day! It was the most amazing feeling - I was so ecstatic and remember falling to the floor in excitement. It was my first time going to LA.
You mentioned in an interview you were 'Pop with an Urban Edge'. Please tell us more in depth what this really means?
It means incorporating my Pop music style with my urban music side, to make it “Ashleefied”. As I mentioned earlier, I grew up listening to a lot of R&B and hip hop music as well, so I incorporate all these elements into my own sound to make it my own unique vibe.
You mentioned in an interview you were 'Pop with an Urban Edge'. Please tell us more in depth what this really means?
It means incorporating my Pop music style with my urban music side, to make it “Ashleefied”. As I mentioned earlier, I grew up listening to a lot of R&B and hip hop music as well, so I incorporate all these elements into my own sound to make it my own unique vibe.
How do you stay humble in this business? What inspires you in life?
I think staying humble is one of the most important things in this industry. I personally only like to surround myself with people who are humble and hungry. I think it’s always so important to be grounded and always remember the climb of your career and where you came from, and your purpose. I get inspired by living life and the experiences I go through and what I want to give to the world through my art and music. Inspiration sparks randomly for me. I also randomly get inspired while working out, or on the treadmill sometimes.
You recently filmed a music video for your new single "Saucy.” Whose idea was it and where was it shot?
It was truly a collaborative team effort. We had several creative team meetings to discuss ideas. I wanted to incorporate visual effects and gave a lot of input on creative ideas/direction on what I wanted in the video. I love being a part of all of that, hands on. We shot it in the valley at a green screen studio. It was really cool!
You and Your Persona, how different are they? What do you like on your days off?
My persona is most definitely my personality. I’m very fierce and confident. I definitely feel like I have an alter ego though LOL. When I’m all glammed up and on stage, that side of my personality just gets heightened because I’m also just a chill cool girl with no makeup, workout clothes, sweatpants vibe too. I’m very down to earth as well. On days off I sleep, hang with my dog KoKo, and Netflix and chill to be honest lol. I’ll also catch up with friends and do dinners or something cute too.
Who would be your ideal person to work with on a project?
Oh my gosh I have so many people I want to work with. I’d have to say Madonna or Beyonce and Dr. Luke & Max Martin.
Did you come from a musical family? How did you learn about the music industry?
No one in my family is in the entertainment industry. I had to learn everything on my own by trial and error and fighting to be who I wanted to be. It made me work harder. Learning and picking myself back up when I fell is truly how I learned and gained wisdom and confidence from every experience.
Do you have a name for your fanbase? If so, why did you choose this name?
#KEATORS I love them so much!! Originally, it was Ashleenators, but it didn’t feel right to me, so I made a poll and asked my fans via Instagram what they wanted to call themselves. And they created #KEATORfam, my #KEATORS.
What's a day with you like from A.M. to P.M.?
Busy AF to be honest. Lol. I always like to workout in the morning to start my day, but sometimes it depends on my schedule. I may have calls in the morning before I even get to the gym. Every week/day changes depending on what I’m getting ready for - a shoot, music video, interviews, studio, performances etc. I always make to do lists and cross things off, and I work on my social content as well. I’m always busy and productive doing something. I’m kind of never, not working. I’ve become pretty good at multitasking, haha.
What's your beauty/health routine? What could you not live without doing every day?
Working out. It’s great for my mental health and it’s my “me time” when I’m busy. I zone out for at least an hour and I feel great! I don’t do it every day, but at least 5-6 times per week. I also eat very healthy, drink enough water, and keep my skin moisturized.
What dates or projects would you love your fans to watch out for in 2023/24?
More performance dates announced soon, more new music, and lots of surprises! Stay tuned ;)
How can fans reach out to you via social media?
Instagram and Twitter I feel are the best ways to communicate. I love re-posting when my fans tag me in IG stories, listening to my music. I also have a Cameo account where fans can request a personalized video or whatever they want. I love communicating with my fans.