Ashley McBryde’s Intimate Journey with ‘Wild’
Ashley McBryde has taken a bold step in her music career by focusing on her own life experiences in her latest album, Wild, which was released on May 8. After years of crafting songs about colorful characters she has met, this time she has chosen to share her own story.
Facing the Fear of Vulnerability
In a recent discussion with Kelly Clarkson on The Kelly Clarkson Show, McBryde opened up about the anxiety she felt surrounding the release of her most personal project to date. Unlike her previous works, which included songs like “Brenda Put Your Bra On” and “Livin’ Next to Leroy,” both of which were centered on the lives of others, Wild dives deep into her own journey.
She explained, “The more songs we chose, the more they revealed themselves. It was stuff from my life… We all have the need to be seen, but it’s also really scary to tell the story. There’s nothing to hide behind,” she shared candidly.
Curating the Track List
The process of selecting songs for the album started with work tapes recorded on her iPhone in her garage. As she narrowed down the options, the songs began to stand out. “We listen to a work tape, we chart it ourselves, we work it through. And then the next day we come in and say, ‘What from yesterday do you want to play again?’” she elaborated. This method of selection was akin to a “celebrity death match,” where only the strongest songs made the cut.
A Personal Chapter of Sobriety
Clarkson pointed out that this collection of 11 songs marks a significant transformation in McBryde’s life, particularly regarding her ongoing sobriety journey, which began in June 2022. “This is kind of the moment all of this leads up to, ‘and then she went to rehab.’ It’s not a sobriety record, but it is part of the story,” McBryde clarified.
She emphasized that her goal isn’t to preach about sobriety but to share her experiences with those who are willing to listen. “It’s not a big shiny badge I carry. It’s more like a wet wool blanket that’s on me all the time,” she explained, illustrating her ongoing struggle and resilience.
Creating a Welcoming Space
In addition to her album, McBryde has also launched a creative venture: Redemption Bar, which opened in August. This unique bar offers a zero-proof cocktail menu, allowing patrons to enjoy drinks without alcohol, catering to both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. “No one’s going to think you’re weird if you do drink. No one’s going to think you’re weird if you don’t drink,” she stated, highlighting the inclusive atmosphere she aims to foster.
Celebrating Milestones
On June 14, McBryde marked four years of sobriety, sharing a powerful post on social media that recognized her journey of 1,461 days of self-discovery. She expressed the importance of finding personal ways to stay sober, whether through activities like boxing or painting. “Your path is yours. No one else needs to understand it. Whatever keeps you, YOU. You need you. Struggle forward. Do it scared,” she encouraged.
Upcoming Tour
With Wild now available, McBryde is set to embark on a tour throughout the summer and fall, bringing her new music and personal stories to fans across the country.
Source: countrynow.com