Ashley Ryan Unleashes “My Crazy”: A Dive into Head-Over-Heels Romance
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Nashville is buzzing with the fresh sound of Ashley Ryan’s latest single, “My Crazy.” This new track offers a captivating glimpse into a whirlwind romance, a departure from the more independent spirit often heard in Ryan’s previous work. It seems the free-spirited artist has been swept off her feet, finding herself navigating the exhilarating and sometimes bewildering territory between infatuation and genuine affection. As the lyrics playfully suggest, “My crazy’s got some making up to do,” hinting at the delightful chaos that love can sometimes bring.
The release of “My Crazy” comes hot on the heels of Ryan’s recent recognition by Holler., who included her in their prestigious “10 Artists You Need To Know” list just yesterday. This acknowledgment underscores the growing momentum behind the Corona, California native, who has been steadily carving her own niche in the country music landscape.
“‘This song is a full-throttle, no-brakes kind of love story—the kind that turns a wild-hearted, free-roaming, love-isn’t-for-me type into a full-blown, starry-eyed fool,'” Ryan shared, offering a personal insight into the song’s inspiration. “One minute, she’s riding solo, dreams too big for a plus-one, and the next, she’s got a cowboy in her head, her heart, and—Lord help her—even her vocabulary.” This vivid description paints a picture of a transformative love, one that playfully disrupts the established norms of a fiercely independent individual.
“My Crazy” has also made its way to country radio stations nationwide and is currently gaining traction with adds. This suggests a strong belief in the song’s potential to resonate with a wide audience, drawn in by its relatable themes and Ryan’s undeniable vocal charm.
For those familiar with Ryan’s previous work, “My Crazy” offers a contrasting shade to her recent single, “Wrong Post.” That track delivered a dose of sassy realism, serving as a cautionary tale to an ex-lover regarding his new relationship. The music video for “Wrong Post,” which premiered on CMT, further showcased Ryan’s versatility as she portrayed a waitress caught in a web of workplace drama and unrequited affection.
Ashley Ryan first captured widespread attention in 2023 with her debut single under Spinville Entertainment, “Hush Little Baby.” The song’s viral success on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, amassing over 35 million views, coupled with nearly 16 million streams on Spotify, announced her arrival as a force to be reckoned with. Billboard aptly described her sound as a “full-fledged barn-burner,” highlighting the raw energy and captivating power of her performances.
Tracks like “Too Far Gone” further solidify Ryan’s vocal prowess and pay homage to the strong female voices that have influenced her musical journey. “I grew up singing ‘Before He Cheats’ and ‘Gunpowder and Lead.’ I really love fiddle in a song – I love that old traditional country, the grungy female country with the sassy drop D guitar and rolling banjo. So that’s what you’ll get from me,” Ryan explained, revealing the roots of her distinctive sound. With what Billboard aptly calls an “abundance of firepower,” she seamlessly blends classic country elements with a contemporary edge.
Ryan’s journey to Nashville’s vibrant music scene began with a passion for poetry, which naturally evolved into songwriting at the age of 16, sparked by a gift of her first guitar from her grandfather. “I didn’t have anyone to sing my songs, so I started singing them myself, and it just seemed to work,” she recalled. Recognizing her burgeoning vocal talent, she eventually made the move east to Music City, enrolling at Belmont University to further her musical education and career aspirations.
Ashley Ryan’s music is characterized by its ability to capture a wide spectrum of emotions, from the depths of heartbreak to the high-energy spirit of a honky-tonk. Her authenticity and vibrant delivery create a connection with listeners, offering a familiar yet fresh take on country music. Her talent was quickly recognized in Nashville, notably by 4-time GRAMMY® Award-winning country icon Keith Urban at a private event. An impromptu duet of Urban’s hit song “Without You” led to an invitation to reprise the performance at his sold-out show at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, a pivotal moment that undoubtedly amplified her burgeoning career.
With the release of “My Crazy,” Ashley Ryan continues to showcase her artistic growth and willingness to explore new emotional landscapes within her music. This latest offering provides a captivating glimpse into the transformative power of love, delivered with her signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and undeniable vocal talent. As “My Crazy” makes its way onto playlists and radio waves, it’s clear that Ashley Ryan’s star is continuing its ascent in the ever-evolving world of country music.
Photo by Libby Danforth