SHREDnews

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m Ashley. I live in a small town by Buffalo, NY. I love music more than anything. I’m a singer/songwriter, and a senior in high school.

How did you get started?

I’ve been writing lyrics and stuff like that ever since I was little, and then I used to try and write short stories and stuff. I’ve always really loved writing, and then when the opportunity for Shred came about, I was really excited to be able to participate.

First show?

My first show was NSync  in elementary school, but I’m not sure if that counts. My first rock show was seeing Cute Is What We Aim For. Since they’re from Buffalo, they were here quite often, so I went and saw them.

Favorite Show?

Pretty much every Paramore show I have ever been to. They always put on such a good show, and I always have tons of fun at their shows, but when I saw them back in 8^th grade, that was probably my favorite, just because not as many people knew about them, so it was easier to meet and hang out with them.

First record every purchased?

Oh god, I have no idea to be honest. If I had to guess I’d say UnderOATH. My parents bought me a bunch of boy bands CDs when I was little but again, I’m pretty sure that doesn’t count…

How’d you get invited to be on the Shred staff? How do you know the other staff members?

One of my best friends, Nicole, who used to work for Shred, asked me if I was interested, and since my two favorite things were music and writing, I was definitely into the idea. She was the only staff member I knew at the time, but I’ve talked to some of the other staff members through e-mails and they’re all very cool.

Favorite part of your job?

There is about one million things I love about writing for Shred. For one, it’s broadened my music taste. It forces me to listen to new artists and albums, and a lot of the time I really like them. I’ve learned about so many awesome local bands and bands that I haven’t heard of before that are really awesome. Also, getting to meet some of my favorite bands and interview them is also really an awesome opportunity.  It’s also helped me get better at writing. When I first started, I wasn’t so great at writing articles, I can admit, but after working at it, I find it a lot easier. It’s just a really cool experience overall.

What’s the most recent interview you’ve done?

I interviewed Story Of The Year like last month.

Do you have a favorite interview?

I would have to say Story Of The Year, considering the fact it’s the only interview I have done. My other requests didn’t work out, and in the beginning I wasn’t sure how it all worked. Plus, I have only been with Shred since September, and I didn’t have my license in the beginning of the year so going to shows wasn’t really an option, but the guys from Story Of The Year made my first interview really cool, and made it less nerve racking for me. I’m a big SOTY fan, so I was pretty intimidated, but they made me feel real comfortable.

Do you have a favorite venue to do press at?

In Buffalo we have the Town Ballroom, which is a cool venue in general. We don’t have that many venues which is kind of a bummer, but I like the Ballroom.

Where do you see Shred a year from now?

I feel like Shred is getting pretty big, and I think in a year it will be even bigger. Who knows? I think it will go pretty far, all the writers are awesome, and we’ve got some cool reviews and interviews.

Most embarrassing song on your IPod?

Oh I have many. I’ve been made fun of Lady Gaga. I have all her songs on there, cause I think she’s awesome. Don’t judge me, haha. I also have She Wolf by Shakira, just because it’s so catchy! How can you not love it?

Most embarrassing moment?

Being the loser that I am, I have a pretty large share of embarrassing memories. I think peeing my pants in front of the entire class in 3^rd grade is pretty much at the top of the list. It’s really sad when I get adds on Facebook and MySpace to this day from kids I went to school with back then, and when I say “Remember me?” their response is “Oh yeah, the girl who peed her pants.” Glad to know that’s how I’ll be remembered. Good thing I switched schools!

Who is one musician, dead or alive, that you’d most like to meet?

Anthony Green, hands down. I would probably pass out if I met him. Ooh, or Andrew McMahon, I would love to meet him too, but I’d have to go with Anthony Green.

Give us a random interesting fact about yourself?

I want to go to college at Berklee in Boston. I’m patiently waiting for that letter!