Ashley McBryde Says She Was Encouraged to Change Her Look Early on in Her Career: ‘I’m Not Blonde, I’m Covered in Tattoos’

**Ashley McBryde Stays True to Herself Amidst Industry Pressure**

Country music star Ashley McBryde has always been known for her authenticity and unwavering resolve. In a recent appearance on the Rolling Stone’s Nashville Now podcast, the singer reflected on her early career, revealing the pressures she faced to conform to traditional country music aesthetics.

McBryde, who hails from Arkansas, shared her experience of being advised to change her hair colour and style in order to fit a more conventional image. “When I first popped on to the scene, people suggested I should go blonde and ditch my curly hair,” the 43-year-old recalled. Rather than acquiescing to such expectations, McBryde took a different route, opting instead to embrace her individuality. “I chose to get more tattoos,” she said, highlighting her decision to firmly reject the industry’s attempts to mould her into a more typical image.

The singer acknowledged that her appearance did not align with the stereotypical image of country music artists. “I’m not tall like the other options in country music. I’m not blonde. I’m covered in tattoos,” she remarked, explaining how she has always felt comfortable being herself despite not fitting the industry’s traditional mould.

McBryde also recounted the suggestions she received about adjusting her fashion choices, including wearing fringe and tucking her pants into her boots. With her trademark candidness, she responded, “Is it raining? Is there a reason?” She described having tried some of the styles, concluding with a hint of humour that it was evident they didn’t suit her. “You can see that it looks ridiculous,” she added, emphasising her commitment to authenticity over conformity.

In the same interview, McBryde unapologetically laid down her stance regarding discomfort. “I have a gift for, if something makes me that uncomfortable, it’s now your problem. You will be as uncomfortable as I am,” she asserted. This philosophy underpins her approach to both her career and personal expression, solidifying her image as a strong, independent artist within a genre often marked by traditional norms.

With a trajectory that launched significantly after her breakout single “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” in 2017, McBryde has made notable waves in the music scene. She followed that success with her acclaimed debut album, “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” which garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album. Such achievements have placed her in a unique position, allowing her to maintain artistic freedom while continuing to grow her fanbase.

Most recently, McBryde unveiled her fifth studio album, “Wild,” in May 2026. This release represents a culmination of her experiences and the themes of authenticity that have defined her work. Reflecting on the album’s inspiration, she described the creative process as akin to building a tree fort, relying on familiar elements and exploring new ones. “Sometimes going with your gut is the scariest thing you can do… and the most necessary,” she wrote on Instagram.

The album “Wild” embodies the essence of McBryde’s personal journey—embracing fear, chaos, and the pursuit of truth. She portrays a sense of nostalgia and youthful ambition throughout the tracks. “That’s the spirit of the record. The fear, the chaos, the hard truths, and the little kid in me who always kept dreaming big,” McBryde expressed, indicating her excitement for audiences to engage with this personal narrative.

As Ashley McBryde continues to forge ahead in the competitive landscape of country music, her commitment to her own identity shines through. Her refusal to conform to expectations not only distinguishes her as an artist but also resonates deeply with fans who appreciate her authenticity. With “Wild,” she invites listeners to join her in embracing both the beauty and complexity of life, proving that staying true to oneself can lead to remarkable creations.

As she navigates her career, McBryde remains a trailblazer, offering a refreshing perspective that champions individuality in a genre often laden with stereotypes. With her bold approach and heartfelt songwriting, she reinforces the message that being genuine is not just preferable—it’s essential.