Ashley Anne | Heart of the Gulch interview

Filmed May 2025 — On this episode of Heart of the Gulch, host Tony Mendoza sits down with rising country-folk singer songwriter @ashleyannemusic for a conversation about viral success, songwriting, and her journey from Virginia Beach to Nashville.

At just 21 years old, Ashley Anne has already built a powerful reputation as one of the most authentic young voices in country and folk music. Known for her viral breakout song “Dear Dolly” and fan-favorite “She Ain’t Texas,” Ashley’s storytelling style blends heartfelt honesty with what fans describe as a “Coastal Grandmother meets Country Music” aesthetic. During the interview, Ashley talks about starting to write songs at 11 years old, how her grandmother and country roots influenced her sound, and what it was like seeing “Dear Dolly” explode online with millions of streams and viral attention on TikTok.

Ashley also shares insight into her debut EP “Call Me When You Land,” the emotional stories behind her songwriting, and how her experiences — including periods of couch surfing while pursuing music — shaped the deeply personal stories she tells in her songs.

Tony and Ashley also discuss her move to Nashville, her early career milestones, and the exciting moment of performing at CMA Fest on the Hard Rock Stage, along with what fans can expect from her music heading into 2026.

To close out the episode, Ashley Anne steps into the “Walk The Line” performance segment and delivers a powerful stripped-down performance of “Plenty of Fish.”

If you love discovering emerging country artists, Nashville songwriters, and authentic storytelling in country music, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Subscribe to Heart of the Gulch for more interviews with the next generation of country music artists and Nashville’s movers and shakers.


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Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGijkKjdl8I

About Heart of the Gulch:
Heart of the Gulch is a Nashville-based digital show hosted by Tony Mendoza, spotlighting the movers, shakers, and storytellers shaping today’s music, media, and culture. Each episode features candid conversations with musicians, artists, creators, and industry leaders — breaking down real experiences, creative journeys, and the moments you don’t see on stage or online. From raw performances to behind-the-scenes insight, Heart of the Gulch lives where authenticity meets storytelling. Tune in and never miss a moment from the heart of Music City - Nashville TN.