“Running Out Of Time” Kickstarts Ashe’s Welcome Return
Ashe swiftly re-entered the music scene with an album announcement and the glistening new single “Running Out Of Time” after a year and a half of silence.
PHOTO BY LUKE ROGERS
The Nashville-based singer/songwriter garnered a reputation as a lively performer and cunning songwriter through hits “Moral of the Story” and “Till Forever Falls Apart” and collaborations with Niall Horan and FINNEAS.
Following the successes of her albums Ashlyn and Rae, Ashe announced the cancellation of her North American and Europe/UK tours in 2023 for mental health reasons. She took a break from social media and stopped making public appearances. This week, her leave of absence thankfully ended.
Through announcing her newest album Willson, set to release Sep. 6, Ashe unveiled details about her time off and a bold new direction. She candidly addressed how touring impacted her mental health and induced panic attacks, causing her to take time away from live performances. After stepping away from the industry, Ashe gently eased herself back into the creative process. “This time last summer in Nashville, I started writing again. I treaded very lightly. Kept it secret and used it as a way to make sense of the last few years in private. I was taking my time and careful about sharing the music,” said Ashe in a social media statement.
“When ready, I showed the music to those I trusted in my living room.”
Willson’s announcement isn’t all Ashe shared with fans. She also revealed that the album will be her first release as a newly independent artist.
“I feel lucky I’ve been able to take this time, to still be here and that in the end, I’m able to put this album out my way,” said Ashe.
“Running Out Of Time” provides a stunning glimpse into Ashe’s fresh era, where it’s clear that she’s stepping into her own and creating music that she loves on her terms. Ashe co-wrote the track with Julian Bunetta, Steph Jones of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” and boygenius producers Collin Pastore and Jake Finch.
“Running Out Of Time” opens with warm chords and a full, soaring band arrangement. Ashe’s silky, vibrant vocals are an immediate hook. She lyrically explores all-consuming love, self-discovery and her arrival in Nashville.
“While Running Out Of Time moonlights as a love song, it’s about self-exploration and independence. For me, that looked like getting out of Los Angeles, getting more comfortable with things like my mortality and worrying less about the opinion of others. It feels like such the right sentiment after a long time away,” said Ashe.
The track’s summery feel is propelled by a music video co-directed by Ashe and Luke Rogers. Ashe sings and dances freely against backdrops of summer picnics, sunny landscapes and an American flag. The track sounds as light and sweet as the strawberries, watermelon and ice cream included in its visuals.
Ashe appears energetic and self-assured. She proudly wears her embracement of independent artistry and a retro Americana flair. “Running Out Of Time” is an effective introduction to Willson’s bright new world that has created an anticipatory wait until the album’s release.
