Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Taylor.
Hi Ashley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Big names such as Beyonce’, Rhianna, Katy Perry, and Michael Jackson – to name a few- graced my TV screen as a young child on MTV. As I would imitate the dance moves in the videos. From little on I was always moving. And at the age of 6, I joined a recreational dance studio. I was then exposed and trained in styles such as jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, praise, and hip-hop. I began to develop a deep passion for dance, along with a speech disorder. At the age of 9, I joined my studio’s competition team to dive deeper into my passion. Not only as an emotional, but social relief as well. Having a speech impediment discouraged me from talking. So, I resorted to expressing how I feel through dance. Over the next four years, I competed on stages and did annual recitals. I was happy. But, deep down I wanted more. Exposure and more opportunities. There had to be more to dance! During my last year at my studio, I went to my first ever hip-hop convention. Not wanting to leave I was emotionally overwhelmed. The atmosphere and people were astonishing! I knew that I had to take a big leap of faith in order to quit my old studio.
In 2019, I started my first year training under Kode Redd and COCA (Center of Creative Arts). I have been dancing pre-professionally and getting top-tier exposure within the dance industry. While only being at the age of 15 I received many opportunities such as dancing on national TV and being a fitness instructor. This is just the start to my road of success. But I am humbled and honored to be in a position to be not only a student but a teacher as well.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Anyone pursuing the arts can tell you that your dreams come with a lot of ups and downs along the way. For me, early on it has been self-sabotage I am an introvert at heart. Everything about me screamed timidly. I was always looking down, body-conscious, and was speaking low. I went through a dark place of finding myself, rebranding my look, ad who I wanted to be. Now, moving forward I prioritize self-love, self-care, mindfulness, and wellness. And doing things that are best for me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a dancer, model, and content creator. I trained in ballet, jazz, tap, Horton, heels, lyrical, praise, African, and a specialization in commercial hip hop dance. When you see me, the first thing you notice is my big curly hair and captivating hazel eyes. That, and I’m pretty short! Apart from my appearance, my voice is a big standout. What was once my assumed downfall has turned into my biggest asset. With having a stutter, I use my voice to teach and inspire both adults and children.
Contact Info:
- Email: ashtaylor9124@gmail.com
- Instagram: @its.ashtaylor
- Twitter: @its_ashtaylor
- Other: Tiktok: @its.ashtaylor
Image Credits
Keaton Todd
Monarch Photography
Russo Photography
Kate Pogue
Joan Fisher
