Ansley Rushing is a singer, songwriter, and violinist based in Nashville, TN. Originally from Georgia, she played shows in Atlanta and Athens for years before relocating to Tennessee. She is releasing her first official recordings in 2021. I was completely disarmed by Rushing’s voice, and I know you will be, too.
What are some of your musical influences?
I wish I could write lyrics like Leonard Cohen. I enjoy reading his poetry. Musically, I look up to Alison Krauss. My dad used to listen to a live CD of hers when I was younger, and I was struck by how flawless her voice is. Also, she plays the violin! It is rare to see a female violinist fronting a band, and that’s what I love to do.
Later on, Alison Krauss produced two albums for the band Nickel Creek. They are a huge influence on me as well. They play folk music with an amazing mixture of traditional and experimental sounds. I always try to achieve that balance in my music too.
Do you have any songwriting tips you can share?
My current single “Clementine” is written from the perspective of an old man who has lost his wife. At the time I wrote it, I was reflecting on a lot of personal emotions that were too raw to put into words. So, I decided to put myself in the shoes of someone else. That gave me an outlet for my feelings, but it also helped me exercise my creativity in a new way. So, to anyone facing writer’s block, I’d recommend writing a story about someone else and seeing where that takes you!
Do you start off with the music or lyrics first? Why?
I typically start with a primary lyric. For my most recent song, that line was “Oh my darling, Clementine.” Then, I sing it over and over until I find an interesting melody for the words (I typically do this in my car!) Once I have a main hook, I grab a guitar and build the rest of the song around that.
What are some of the best venues you’ve played? Why?
I’m originally from Atlanta, and some of my very first performances were at Eddie’s Attic. It’s iconic! And they create the most respectful, special environment for musicians.
Tell us about your favorite show you’ve ever played.
Years ago, two of my band members moved to San Francisco, and I flew out there to visit them. We ended up throwing a huge house party and playing a set on top of an old Land Cruiser in the Berkeley Hills. There was a hot tub, a bunch of beer, and a group of French exchange students who had never heard my songs before. We had a blast! I never really expected that my songs would fit in that environment, but everybody was so laid back, friendly, and happy to chat about music.
Recent release you cannot stop listening to?
Laura Marling – Song For Our Daughter
Ansley Rushing — Instagram