ASHTON: THE ‘SKY SCRAPER’

About the artist ...
My name is Ashton-Rae Da Silva Cunha, born on April 17, 1996. I grew up in Manzini throughout my childhood until Grade 9 when I moved to Pretoria to attend an art school called Pro Arte Alphen Park. I have always been passionate about singing, however, I am also extremely academically focused and feel that education is the key to success.  I’d like to believe that I am a hardworking, ambitious and optimistic young lady who is always striving for nothing less than the best at everything I do.
Having always described myself as a ‘soul on fire’ on social media, I truly believe it is a perfect depiction of who I am. Among other things, I am also a brand ambassador for the popular Sandton nightclubs Taboo, VIP Room and Cocoon. Currently, I am a second year undergraduate student studying Clinical Psychology at the University of Johannesburg.

Lesson learnt in life ...
My childhood has taught me to be extremely sociable. Being part of a big family namely: the Pierces, Fortunes, and Da Silva Cunha has instilled a sense of solidarity in me.  I cannot comment much on my adulthood journey as it has just begun. However, in my years of independence thus far I have learnt to accept what I cannot change and work towards what I can.  As the saying goes, “When life gives you lemons, take the lemons and make lemonade.”

Balancing music with school ...
Balancing music with school has never been easy and won’t get easy any time soon but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Having goals and direction is very important to me and each day is a reminder of how blessed I am to have countless opportunities that present themselves daily.  In-between all the sleepless nights and madness is a balance of working hard, and partying harder LOL!

My musical journey ...
It is only the beginning of my musical journey and I don’t want to blow the fireworks before the party but I see success in the near future and I’m beyond ready and excited for it.

Ultimate inspiration ...
Whitney Houston was always my ultimate inspiration. For those that know me well, know that whenever I was asked to sing I would always choose ‘The greatest love of all’ regardless of how many songs I knew the lyrics to. I am trying very hard to resist that temptation when asked to showcase my talent at present hahaha...

My future ...
In future, I would love to work with Skrillex, who is well-known for producing songs for Justin Bieber and ASAP Rocky. He is so talented and the vibe he gives off is electric. After meeting him on one of my shifts at the well known VIP Room in Sandton, I discovered what an amazing and down to earth person he is and we hit it off immediately. During our memorable dancing and singing moments he asked me why I am studying Psychology instead of pursuing a career in singing and that was just the highlight of it all for me!

My highlights in the industry ...
My latest collaboration with Morale on ‘Summer Love’ was one of my most exciting musical experiences thus far. He made it easy for me to sing and be myself in studio which is normally nerve wrecking when people are watching it all. What a humbling experience it is to be featured on a single for the very first time with an award-winning artist in the industry who has recently featured one of my favourite artists Kwesta and Gigi Lamayne on his single ‘Korobela.’ It was also a wake-up call for me. I felt an urgency that I have never felt before to make it in this industry. All these years my primary focus has been my studies and as of 2016 I can finally say that obtaining a degree is as important to me as releasing an album.

Music influence ...
My number one musical influence is Rihanna. Her music is fun, playful and so versatile. She doesn’t stick to one genre and continues surprising us with hit after hit in totally different styles of music.

The meaning of music ...
My music is a representation of my life and my encounters. It may be exaggerated at times but there is always a bit of Ashton-Rae in whatever I take on that makes it unique and different from the rest.
I want people to feel good when they listen to my music, I want them to be happy and just for a few minutes escape the seriousness of life and its daily stressors.

Music goal ...
My immediate musical goals are to release at least release two albums, perform alongside South Africa’s most popular artists and open for international artists as well.  In the long run, I want to be great, do great things and inspire other upcoming musicians. I want to be remembered for the music I created, the people I touched and for all the happy moments that were experienced because of my music.

Definition of success ...
 I would define success as a state of contentment with life when you have accomplished all your goals. Success is different for everyone, but for me success is reaching my full potential and doing the best I can in whatever endeavour I undertake.

Advice to the youth ...
I would advise young people to always stay focused and adhere to good principles, morals and values. NEVER EVER forget your spiritual side as the music industry can lead you astray. Keep your eye on the prize, do everything with God and you will never go wrong. Remember that, if it is God’s will, it will be done.

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