Singer-Songwriter Ashley Anne Explores Relationship Grief On New Single "happy birthday"
 | Thurs, January 22, 2026 at 10:02 PM |
Kicking off the year strong, emerging singer-songwriter Ashley Anne launches the next chapter of her career with the release of her new single, "happy birthday," available everywhere now.
Following the impact of her latest release, "couch surfing," the Virginia Beach native continues to build momentum with a growing catalog rooted in her signature emotional honesty and fearless storytelling. As part of this new era, Ashley has also recently signed an exclusive management agreement with One Spark Entertainment, marking a significant step forward as she enters her most focused and creatively confident season yet.
Named an Artist to Watch in 2026 by both 1883 Magazine and Galore, Ashley's latest release leans fully into the emotional honesty and fearless storytelling that have defined her rise. "happy birthday" traces the quiet aftermath of a fractured relationship, reflecting on how two people who once shared everything slowly become strangers.
"happy birthday" is a song that explores the reminiscent yet unfortunate circumstances of a broken relationship. a "crash out" for the people who need to get the anger off their chest, but also a bittersweet remembrance. there are a lot of breakup songs in the world, but this is a fresh way of grieving those losses. to go from partners in crime, tied at the hip, lighting the candles on their cake, to not even wishing them happy birthday; this song is a journey through grief," shares Anne.
Anne has been steady with releases since the release of her debut EP, dear dolly (January 2024), followed by her sophomore project, call me when you land (November 2024). Her first-ever duet, "Fence" with Eli Winders, earned praise from Holler for its "tender harmonies & vivid storytelling," alongside recognition from CMT, CMA, Country Central, and the Academy of Country Music.
Ashley Anne recently wrapped a high-impact run opening for Maddox Batson, building momentum across key Southeastern markets and further establishing herself as a compelling live performer. The 12-city tour showcased her ability to connect with audiences night after night, resulting in strong crowd response, growing fan engagement, and notable social growth.
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Since her debut, Ashley has shared the stage with Avery Anna, Charles Wesley Godwin, Tigirlily Gold, and Josh Turner, and performed at CMA Fest in both 2024 and 2025, including a spotlight appearance at Spotify House on the Fresh Finds Stage. Named an Artist to Watch by Holler, Sweety High, and Women of Country, and selected for Spotify's Fresh Finds Class of 2024, Ashley Anne continues to solidify her place as one of country music's most emotionally resonant new voices.
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