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The CMA Country Christmas is back to celebrate its 15th anniversary. Airing on December 3, 2024, the show will be hosted by Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood and feature performances from several artists, including Ashley McBryde. She will take the stage alongside her friend and fellow artist Brittney Spencer.
According to American Songwriter, the 41-year-old singer shared her excitement about the collaboration: “When I found out I [get] to collab, I was immediately excited and curious as to who I would get to sing with” and “It’s Brittney Spencer. I could not be more excited. She got pipes.”
Before the special airs on ABC—and becomes available the following day on Disney+ and Hulu—here’s what you need to know!
Discover the Journey of Ashley McBryde, A Rising Star in Country Music
Ashley McBryde has captured the hearts of country music fans with her powerful singles such as “A Little Dive Bar In Dahlonega,” “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” and “One Night Standards.” Notably, her first single was certified Gold by the RIAA, while her recent hit has achieved Platinum status. Her debut album, released in 2018 titled Girl Going Nowhere, firmly established her as a formidable new voice on the country music scene. Following this success, she unveiled her second studio album, Never Will, in 2020, which further solidified her presence in the industry.
Ashley McBryde: An Award-Winning Country Music Artist
Ashley McBryde has already earned her place in the spotlight with an Academy of Country Music Award adorning her mantle. She won the prestigious ACM for New Female Vocalist of the Year in 2018, showcasing her incredible talent. Since that milestone, she has received numerous nominations for esteemed ACM awards, including Song of the Year for her hits “Girl Goin’ Nowhere” and “One Night Standards,” as well as nominations for Female Artist of the Year and Single of the Year. Furthermore, she has been recognized with an ACM for Musical Event of the Year and a Country Music Association Award for New Artist of the Year, highlighting her significant contributions to the genre.
The Hard Work Behind Ashley McBryde’s Success
Born and raised in Saddle, Arkansas, Ashley began her musical journey at the young age of 12, when she started writing songs. During her high school years, she boldly told her algebra teacher about her aspirations to write songs in Nashville. The teacher’s dismissive response, which labeled her dreams as “stupid,” stayed with McBryde for many years. However, she was fortunate to have unwavering support from her mother, who encouraged her dreams no matter how unconventional they seemed. Ashley reflected on this in a 2019 interview, expressing her belief that everyone deserves to pursue their passions, no matter how unrealistic they may seem to others.
While studying French Horn at Arkansas State University, Ashley initially envisioned a career as a band director. However, her passion for performing led her to make the long drive to Memphis to showcase her talent. It was during these journeys that she realized she could not abandon her dreams of becoming a musician. Consequently, she made the brave decision to drop out of school, relocating to Music City, Nashville, to fully commit to her passion. After a decade of perseverance and hardship, her career began to flourish when she signed with Q Prime management in 2017. The same year, Warner Music released her debut single, “A Little Dive Bar In Dahlonega,” which garnered significant attention, paving the way for her sophomore album, Girl Going Nowhere, released a year later.
Embracing Authenticity: Ashley McBryde’s Unique Style
For the cover of her 2016 EP, Jalopies & Expensive Guitars, Ashley made the decision to straighten her naturally curly hair. The songs featured on this EP were written for other artists, as she aimed to conform to industry expectations. However, disappointment followed when the EP failed to achieve the success she desired. This experience prompted her to embrace her true self, allowing her curls to return while also increasing her tattoo collection. Ashley understood that authenticity resonates with fans and chose to represent herself genuinely, leading to a more fulfilling artistic journey.
Ashley McBryde: A Chill and Laid-Back Artist
If Ashley McBryde gives off a chill vibe, it’s because she truly is laid-back. During the nominations for the 2021 ACM Awards, instead of anxiously awaiting news, she was driving back from a writing retreat. She found out that her album, Never Will, was nominated for Album of the Year through a text from fellow nominee John Osborne of Brothers Osborne, who humorously omitted the detail that he was also in the same category. Although she didn’t win, with Chris Stapleton’s Starting Over taking home the award, her calmness in such moments reflects her grounded nature.
Ashley’s laid-back demeanor and approach to her craft help her navigate the ups and downs of the music industry. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the importance of being true to oneself, resonating deeply with fans who appreciate her authenticity and relatable personality.
Ivy Caldwell
Tessa Everly
