“Big Apple Red”: Allison Asarch’s Heartfelt Tribute to Memory and Connection Earns Songwriting Recognition
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Allison Asarch has returned to the music scene with a powerful and deeply moving single, “Big Apple Red,” a track that resonates with raw emotion and personal reflection. The song, inspired by a poignant real-life encounter in a nail salon, delves into the complex and often heart-wrenching experience of caring for loved ones grappling with dementia or Alzheimer’s. This profoundly empathetic piece has garnered significant attention, earning Asarch a nomination for The Rocky Mountain Songwriting Contest, set to take place in Red Lodge, Montana, this June.
The title, “Big Apple Red,” is a nod to Asarch’s favorite OPI nail polish color, a seemingly simple detail that anchors the song in a tangible, relatable moment. The inspiration for the track arose from a chance observation: an older woman in the salon repeatedly asking the same questions, a subtle yet unmistakable sign of cognitive decline. This encounter struck a deep chord with Asarch, evoking memories of her own great-grandmother, who lived to the remarkable age of 105.
“I wrote this song because I wanted to capture the sentimental impact of caring for someone who is slowly losing their memory,” Asarch explains. “It’s about the little moments that connect us to our loved ones, even when they seem to forget. My great-grandmother always dressed up, even in her later years, and I’ll always remember how she’d ask where her purse was, even though she brought it in herself. It’s these small details that stay with us.”
The lyrics of “Big Apple Red,” co-written with Paige Ruderman and Scott Voelkerding, are a testament to Asarch’s ability to translate profound emotional experiences into compelling narratives. Lines such as, “In the time it took my nails to dry, I heard her ask the same questions at least a couple times,” and “First time I saw her, she was chattin’ with the owner, the next time, she walked a little slower, I’m just a stranger, but I feel like I know her,” paint a vivid picture of the quiet heartbreak that accompanies witnessing a loved one’s struggle with memory loss. The song captures the delicate balance between empathy and the feeling of helplessness, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has navigated the challenges of watching someone they care for fade away.
“This song really captures that emotional rollercoaster, and I’m really proud of how it turned out,” Asarch shares, highlighting the raw vulnerability that permeates the track.
Allison Asarch’s musical journey is as diverse and compelling as her latest single. Raised on the powerful vocals of icons like Tina Turner, Shania Twain, and Freddie Mercury, she cultivated her unique sound while attending Otterbein University’s School of Music. In 2018, she made the pivotal move to Nashville, Tennessee, the heart of country music, to pursue her dreams. Heavily influenced by Taylor Swift, she seamlessly blends country, pop, and jazz elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and distinctly her own.
Her career has been marked by significant milestones, including the release of her debut single, “Taylor Made,” in 2020, and a triumphant appearance on the Netflix Original show “Sing On!,” where she won over $42,000. Her debut album, “Texas to Tennessee,” released in 2022, further solidified her place in the Nashville music scene. Additionally, her consistent performances on Nashville’s legendary Broadway honky-tonk strip have built up a dedicated live audience.
Asarch’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed. She received a nomination for “Rising Star” at the Josie Music Awards in 2022, held at the Grand Ole Opry, and was nominated for “Modern Country Artist of the Year” and “Vocalist of the Year” at the 2023 ceremony.
Looking ahead, Asarch is preparing to release her sophomore album in 2025, an endeavor she describes as a collection of “stories, memories, and relatable music” that she believes will deeply connect with listeners. Beyond her musical pursuits, Asarch is committed to uplifting women in the music industry, recognizing and celebrating the contributions of female instrumentalists, backup vocalists, producers, and creators.
“Big Apple Red” is a testament to Allison Asarch’s ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. It is a song that speaks to the heart, reminding us of the enduring power of connection and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with those we love. With her powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering dedication to her craft, Allison Asarch continues to carve her own unique path in the music world, leaving an indelible mark on all who listen.