Singer-songwriter Ashley Kutcher joins Tony Mendoza on Heart of the Gulch during CMA Fest 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee, for an honest conversation about her music, career, and journey as one of Nashville's fastest-rising independent artists.

Known for her viral hit Love You From A Distance and more than 129 million Spotify streams, Ashley discusses her latest double album, Back To My Roots and These Roots Run Deep, sharing how personal experiences continue to shape her songwriting and connect with fans around the world.

Ashley also reflects on leaving a career in nursing to pursue music full-time, performing on the Wrangler Stage during CMA Fest, and why live shows remain her favorite part of being an artist. The conversation explores independent music, building a team, preparing for upcoming tour dates with Lauren Alaina, and the realities of growing a career outside the traditional label system.

Tony and Ashley also discuss songwriting, overcoming self-doubt, staying authentic, knowing your worth, and the lessons she's learned while navigating today's music industry.

If you're a fan of country music, Nashville singer-songwriters, female country artists, independent musicians, CMA Fest, and authentic artist conversations, this interview offers an inside look at Ashley Kutcher's remarkable journey and what's next in her career.

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