INTERVIEW: Alternative Pop from Asia Ward

Chicago-based artist Asia Ward first started making music as a casual and creative outlet, producing songs on GarageBand after facing a setback in her pursuit of a career in musical theatre. However, her passion for music quickly caught the attention of fellow artists, leading to an invitation to participate in a weekend-long writing session in New York City.

Since then, Asia Ward’s solo career has continued to gain momentum. Her debut single, “Set A Fire,” marked the start of a promising musical journey in 2021. She followed this up with a series of well-received tracks, including the breakout single “Hypnotic” last year, which racked up hundreds of thousands of streams.

Now, Asia presents her latest release, a cover of SZA’s song “kill bill.” Taking the original R&B pop hit, Asia completely reimagines the song as an intimate acoustic version. Opened by the whistle of the instantly memorable lead melody, delicate acoustic guitar notes underpin Asia’s soft vocals as they thread the hushed leads.

With a stripped back arrangement, Asia’s voice truly shines, backed by soft vocal flourishes, her soulful vocals reach soaring heights while remaining grounded to the lo-fi instrumentation that subtly evolves with intricate detuned piano notes and the soft patter of drums. The gentle close of the song sees Asia drape her vocals over the acoustic guitar as distant sirens wail in the background.

It’s a stunning cover that pays tribute to the allure of the original while giving it a completely new sound. Her ability to reinterpret “kill bill” in such a unique way speaks volumes to her creativity as well as the performance panache to deliver it in such an enjoyable way.

Asia Ward’s recent performance at Sofar Sounds Chicago and the imminent release of her next original single next month are sure to see her continue to win over new fans around the world. Asia Ward’s future in music looks incredibly promising and we can’t wait to see what she’ll do next.

We caught up with Asia Ward to find out more about her musical journey so far, her new cover of “kill bill” and what she’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Asia Ward below.

Hey Asia, how’s things?

I’m good! Just had my first Sofar Sound performance last night so still shook about that and definitely slept in this morning lol

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

Actually it was quite recent. In college, I majored in musical theatre and only took a music production class my spring semester of senior year to fill a credit. However in that class as a final project, I decided to make my first song. I based the lyrics off of whatever I was talking about in therapy that week then locked myself in the school’s studio any chance I could to flesh out the production. I had no idea how to make a song, but I remember loving every second of the process and feeling like I could do this forever.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?

So many. Lizzy McAlpine, Hailey Knox, Sza. I love Julia Michaels’ songwriting. For producers: Finneas, Timbaland, Chloe Bailey, Ryan Tedder, Pharrell, Missy Elliott. Ariana Grande, Destiny’s Child, and Beyonce for vocal arrangement. The list goes on but I named too many already so I’ll shut up.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Stories from friends, tv shows, or movies, recording random melodies that pop up in my head, going on new adventures, traveling, nature, taking online production/songwriting classes to hear what other people are making. Just depends on the day.

What do you love about the Chicago music scene?

The midwest vibe in a big city. So many opportunities are here and the majority of the people are so friendly and approachable. It doesn’t feel like a secret club that nobody can get into. The city encourages and supports all different types of artists at different stages in their careers. Plus it’s about an hour away from my hometown Rockford, IL so it feels like I’m back at home.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Mood lighting, a glass of wine (or whatever your favourite drink is), put on your favourite cozy outfit, and vibing by yourself or with friends.

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

Geez. Good question. Before I was just making music just to make music and didn’t really know the sonic world I was living in or the messages I wanted to portray. After experimenting and discovering more about myself as a person, I’m embracing my sound and feel more confident in expressing my thoughts and feelings.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Probably Finneas, Lizzy McAlpine, or Julia Michaels

How did you find making your new cover of “kill bill”?

Incredibly chill and fun. When I do covers, I love flipping them into something different to make it interesting. Once I found the vibe I was going for, I sent it over to my producer, Luke Moseley, and he helped the song come to life!

What message did you want to get across with this release?

I just want the listener to hear a new take on an already fantastic song. For them to go on a more theatrical journey of killing an ex lol.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Aaliyah, Victoria Monet, and Tinashe

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

To feel like you’re sitting down with your best friends, having a glass of wine, and dumping all the feelings out. Whether you need a confidence boost song like Rollin, a feelin yourself vibe like Hypnotic, or a venting session like LIAB, the listener can feel less alone in their emotions.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

The performance I did last night for Sofar Sounds in Chicago. It was my first time an amazing guitarist played my songs live as well as my first Sofar performance in Chicago. The venue was sick, the vibes were right, it was just a great time.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

Beyonce, Doja Cat, and Michael Jackson

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Consistency. Consistency. Consistency. There really is no linear path and no such thing as an over night success. So through the ups and downs of your career, your consistent hard work will earn you success.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?

My new single heartstrings comes out on November 16th and that will be apart of my first EP in 2024 and more Sofar performances! Excited for the rest of the year and thank yall for having me!

Listen to kill bill below