ASHER is the young and talented artist, deemed a “Breakthrough Star” by MMSCENE and represented by Quincy Jones Management, who strives to provide a voice for the unseen through his music. He is a self-taught musician and has both written and produced music for several other artists, as well as pursuing his own career as an artist and model. With his strong desire to inspire other youths, ASHER has also been involved in a number of charity engagements, most recently he held an opening speech at the Youth Leadership Training arranged by DEA and CADCA.
Asher, you have already had great success in your career at a young age, and we are sure this is only the beginning. What is your recipe and advice to young people with high ambitions?
I think defining what success means to you is the first step. To me, it’s knowing I brought excellence into all that I do and being satisfied in that. I also believe that the most important key to succeeding in anything is to know your worth and caliber of your character. Just having a strong sense of self.
Who do you look up to within music and what is it that you admire about them?
I look up to quite a few people because I’m always trying to sharpen all the aspects of my craft, which include production, songwriting, singing, and performing. I admire producer and songwriter Louis Bell for his incredible and distinct sound which I’m always referencing and studying. I truly admire the storytelling of songwriter Julia Michaels. She has a very unique way of articulating heartbreak and emotion is such a fresh and receivable way, I love everything she touches. Ed Sheeran’s performances have always been the perfect mix of crowd inclusion and performance. I am fascinated as to how he is able to sell out stadiums and be the only one on stage; mind blowing!
My reason for making music is not to fill a void or project anger, but to be vulnerable about my experience, and through that, others can feel seen, heard, and cared for.
ASHER
What are your dreams and hopes with your music and career?
Although this is a weird angle to answer this question, I truly mean it; I dream to come to a place of absolute humility and love so that everything I do is void of ego, void of selfishness, or any hindering mindsets so that I can truly connect and love people well. And through this, not only will the music I make translate deeply into people’s hearts, but also the example I lead every day will affirm the stories I tell. That’s how to truly impact someone; to live a life where your actions match your words.
Can you tell us about a Mentor you have had in your life?
Mr. Diggs, a dean from my old high school, has had a tremendous impact on my life. When I was going through a lot in school, he was always available to help me through my faith and mental conflicts. I will always be thankful for him and his kindness towards me.
Growing up I felt unseen, unheard, and uncared for in various ways. And I know that others like me have felt the same. But I was able to use these feelings of lack to transform my purpose into a feeling of overflowing love and service.
ASHER
In September, you were a part of a Youth Leadership Training arranged by the DEA and CADCA where you did a very appreciated introductory speech. You also have a record of several previous charity engagements. Why is it important for you to be involved with initiatives such as these? And more specifically, with initiatives targeted towards youth?
Us young people hold the fate of the future, and many generations before us have neglected the voices and needs of the youth for a long time. I have always wanted to be someone who bridges that gap as I continue to grow and develop as a creator and leader. Growing up I felt unseen, unheard, and uncared for in various ways. And I know that others like me have felt the same. But I was able to use these feelings of lack to transform my purpose into a feeling of overflowing love and service. And so now, my reason for making music is not to fill a void or project anger, but to be vulnerable about my experience, and through that others can feel seen, heard, and cared for.
You already have a rather impressive resume at only 20 years old. Before even graduating high school, you had written and produced music for several other musicians. You have also contributed to several philanthropic initiatives, as well as pursuing a modeling career walking in a number of fashions shows, including the big fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. With this said – what are your tips for coping with stress during busy times and how do you balance these ambitions and commitments to maintain good mental health?
For me, my faith in Jesus has always been the foundation of my life. I will always continue to place my identity in Him because of how perfect and kind His example is. It can be very hard to balance so many things at once, especially in my unique case of having to produce, write, record, sing, design, and lead everything I do; and that’s just music, I also have a life to manage! But if I’m feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or stressed, just taking time to breathe and sit in silence helps me to calm my mind, and then what I’ll do is set up my phone and start a video and pray/ talk through what I’m feeling and why. I think that’s why I’ve been able to articulate things in my life well, simply because I’ve always had to sit with myself and talk it out.
Lastly, what is your favorite inspirational quote?
I don’t remember where I heard this, but I live by it daily now: “It’s not about having resources, it’s about being resourceful.” Sometimes, you are just not going to have the resources you think you need, whether that be money, equipment, community, or even time. But you can always use what you have to honor what has already been given.
Thank you so much to ASHER, for taking the time to speak with us! We look forward to seeing more of ASHER in the future and following his already fantastic career!
Are you between 13-24 years of age and want to share your passion for music, crafts, sports, or any other drug-free activity for a chance to win amazing prizes? Participate in our ‘Living the Example National Video Contest’!