The Allure of the Untamed Heart: Ashley Westcott’s Reverse Psychology in “Don’t Fall In Love With A Cowboy”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Ashley Westcott, a rising voice often hailed as the future of Americana music with roots firmly planted in the past, offers a compelling perspective on love and life in her intriguing song title, “Don’t Fall In Love With A Cowboy.” This isn’t a warning against rugged charm or steadfast character, but rather a nuanced observation on the inherent duality of a life dedicated to hard work and responsibility. It speaks to the longing for connection balanced against the reality of demanding commitments – the desire for a devoted partner who, by the very nature of their dedication, cannot always be present.
Hailing from the majestic White Mountains of Arizona, Westcott embodies the spirit of the Southwest in her music. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, she conjures sonic landscapes with her guitar, the resonating slide of her dobro, the nimble melodies of her mandolin, and the grounding presence of her piano. Her music isn’t just a collection of notes; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with tales of “Rattlesnake Waltzes,” the depths of a “Cowboy’s Heart,” and the enduring rhythms of the country way of life.
Westcott’s sound is a unique blend, drawing inspiration from iconic female voices who have shaped the landscape of country and Americana music. The raw honesty and storytelling prowess of Loretta Lynn resonate in her narratives, while the intricate fingerpicking of Molly Tuttle informs her instrumental dexterity. The ethereal grace of Sierra Ferrell’s vocal delivery can be heard in the honeyed tones that carry her lyrics. Yet, from these influences, Ashley Westcott forges a sound that is distinctly her own, imbued with the dust and beauty of her Southwestern roots.
Her connection to this way of life runs deep. Coming from a long line of Arizona ranching families, her heritage is interwoven with the very fabric of the West. Her great-grandfather, a pioneer rancher recognized in the Arizona Hall of Fame, even supplied his own horses for the iconic John Wayne movies, a testament to the enduring legacy of the cowboy spirit in her bloodline.
But Ashley Westcott is far more than just a voice singing about a particular lifestyle. She is a storyteller in the truest sense, painting vivid portraits of authentic life experiences. Her songs are not romanticized clichés but rather grounded observations drawn from the world she knows intimately.
On stage, Westcott’s presence is a captivating blend of genuine charm and a certain inherent grit, seasoned with a delightful touch of humor that keeps audiences utterly engaged. Whether she’s delicately fingerpicking a soulful ballad that tugs at the heartstrings or sharing a lighthearted anecdote with the crowd, Ashley possesses the rare ability to make every listener feel like they’re sharing a personal moment, perhaps gathered around a crackling campfire under a starlit desert sky.
Her musical journey, though still unfolding, is already marked by significant milestones. From the experience of recording original songs like the evocative “Taylor, Arizona; Come On It; and Let Me Sing,” in the heart of Nashville, to the invaluable opportunities of sharing the stage with esteemed musicians like the legendary Lex Browning and Rob Wright, Ashley has undeniably earned her spurs – and the accolades that come with them.
Her ability to connect with audiences of all sizes is evident in the diverse venues she has graced. Headlining at the prestigious Arizona Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Prescott showcased her deep understanding and appreciation for the traditions of the West. Performances at the intimate Gaslight Music Hall in Oro Valley allowed her storytelling to shine. Being invited to the celebrated Art of the Cowgirl event further solidified her place within the contemporary Western arts scene. And serenading over 15,000 enthusiastic attendees at the Taylor, AZ 4th of July Rodeo proved her captivating power on a grand scale.
Through her music, and particularly through the intriguing lens of “Don’t Fall In Love With A Cowboy,” Ashley Westcott invites listeners to consider the complexities of love and commitment within a life defined by dedication and hard work. It’s a testament to her insightful songwriting and her ability to weave narratives that resonate with both the romantic ideal and the grounded realities of life in the American West. As she continues to carve her own path in the Americana landscape, Ashley Westcott stands as a compelling voice, rooted in tradition yet undeniably looking towards the future of the genre.