Upon the initial excitement of returning to a concert for the first time since COVID, my excitement in itself to see Ashe personally was at an all time high. Throughout this year full of many types of heartbreak I've endured, Ashe's music grounded me, comforted me, and let me know I was not alone. Seeing these songs live, and this gorgeous woman live, was something I was counting down to. And boy did she not disappoint.
Of course, I can enjoy a live performance for what it is. But I cannot help but analyse a lot about an artist when they're up on stage. First and foremost, those vocals Ashe sings on her debut, Ashlyn? Yeah - she can do them with ease in person. I've never willingly, nor happily, been on the receiving end of a woman screaming melodic notes right into my face.
Saying that - there is so much more to Ashe, who she is, and the type of performance she can hold - and truly, she is remarkable. For me, it's always been important when I see a live performance that that person or people have stage present. Ashe holds a goofy yet emotional yet strong performance. In what seemed like seconds, she was prancing around, crying, and shaking her chest, making jokes and holding a Niall doll. To say that she was entertaining would be an understatement.
Another thing would be her as a person. I always observe how musicians treat their fans and its almost a turn off when they're blatantly ignoring or rude to those supporting them. But I was able to briefly meet Ashe prior to the concert - she was smiley, kind, and clearly overwhelmed with joy. During the concert, she thanked us for making her dreams come true. And during her performance of Taylor, front row I cried my eyes out. She looked over at me and said into the mic with a broken voice, you're going to make me cry. When thrown gifts, she cried, thanked people, and swung the pride flag as if she had bought it out on stage herself.
In all honesty, I believe Ashe underestimates her presence in the UK. The venue we were at was rather small and compact and had max 600 capacity. But this woman could sell out arenas here. I know so many people, far more than the few hundred there, that love her with all of them, and rightly so.
Ultimately, Ashe was insane live, an emotional and personal rollercoaster for me, and I managed to bond and make so many new connections with people. I am beyond grateful for what Ashe has done for me and many others and that I got to see her life after two years of lack of normality. If you get the chance, I highly recommend going to see Ashe perform - it is 100% worth it.
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