Ashley McBryde, the acclaimed country music artist, opened up about her complex relationship with her father during a recent episode of the Human School Podcast aired on 6 October. The 43-year-old singer-songwriter, who gained recognition for her emotionally-charged lyrics, shared insights into how her experiences have informed her music, particularly her song “Hand Me Downs” from her recent album, *Wild*.
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The discussion became particularly poignant as McBryde reflected on the generational trauma that often influences family dynamics. “I’ve done the anger part,” she revealed. “I was mad at that man for most of my life,” referring to her father, William McBryde. Their relationship deteriorated significantly after her parents’ divorce when Ashley was just 17. “When he left my mother and left us, I was even angrier. I didn’t even speak to him for years.”
During her podcast conversation, McBryde expressed the emotional conflict she faced regarding her father. While acknowledging that anger can be a natural response, she began to explore the possibility of reconciling her feelings. “You can stay angry at him, or you can find a way to still have a dad,” she noted, indicating her decision to pursue a path toward healing rather than resentment.
In her reflections, McBryde described the importance of grieving the idealised version of her father that she had held onto for so long. “Take a minute and acknowledge that wasn’t the case,” she urged listeners. “That is sad. It’s okay that it’s sad.” This acceptance marked a shift in her perspective, enabling her to ask herself what had shaped her father’s behaviour.
While McBryde was clear that she would not excuse her father’s past actions, she sought to understand the complexities that contributed to them. “He’s never going to ask [himself] that question… and I’m not going to excuse a lifetime of tyranny,” she said. “His dad wasn’t very nice, and neither was his dad. He doesn’t know where to set that down, so he sat it on you.” This introspection allowed her to approach the relationship from a place of empathy, rather than contempt.
Their fraught family history has also been a recurring theme in McBryde’s music. The singer’s recent track “Learned to Lie” delves into her parents’ turbulent relationship, including issues of infidelity. By expressing these personal struggles through her songs, she fosters a connection with fans who may be grappling with similar familial challenges.
In a previous interview with *Billboard* in 2018, McBryde shared that her father’s profession as a doctor and a pastor played a significant role in her upbringing. Reflecting on their life together, she stated, “I don’t ever remember not seeing a gun or a Bible.” This dichotomy of influences was both reassuring and unsettling, illustrating the complexity of her childhood.
Despite the past turmoil, McBryde described her current relationship with her father as “cordial.” They maintain a communication, exchanging texts periodically, which signifies a step towards reconciliation. This evolution in their relationship offers hope for healing and understanding, illustrating the potential for transformation even within deeply entrenched familial issues.
As Ashley McBryde continues to navigate her personal journey, her music serves not only as a form of therapy for herself but also resonates with many listeners who may find solace in her candid discussions about family and forgiveness. In confronting her anger and embracing the complexities of her relationship with her father, McBryde sets an example of resilience, demonstrating that taking steps towards healing is achievable, even when dealing with the weight of generational trauma.