Ashley McBryde's Lyrical Journey Through Childhood Challenges

Novelist Anne Lamott once said, "If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better." That statement rings true, especially when it comes to expressing our past experiences, particularly those that involve our families. Sharing personal stories through art, such as song lyrics, can be a daunting task. It carries the weight of potentially causing pain or reopening old wounds. For singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde, this challenge is compounded by her deep commitment to lyrical honesty.

McBryde's new album, The Devil I Know, dives into her intricately woven childhood experiences. Her song "Learned to Lie" serves as a poignant exploration of how her upbringing shaped her understanding of relationships. Through her lyrics, she reveals how witnessing her parents' dysfunctional communication affected her own habits, leading her to seek out dishonest connections in her life.

In the opening verse of "Learned to Lie," McBryde reflects on her mother's feelings of exhaustion and underlying unhappiness, while also recalling her father's absence during family meals. Lines like, "I must've heard my mama tell my daddy / That she was tired, because babies make you tired / But deep down she was just unhappy" resonate with anyone who has navigated the complex emotions of family dynamics. The honesty and relatability of her lyrics not only reveal her personal struggles but also open a door for listeners to confront their own experiences.

In a recent interview with Taste of Country Nights, McBryde discussed the reactions of her parents to her music. Interestingly, she mentioned that her father may not even be aware of her song, explaining, "I don't know that my dad's ever heard it. Or that he owns a radio. He's just that kinda guy." On the other hand, her mother is an avid listener, prompting McBryde to take the proactive step of discussing the song's lyrics with her before it was released. This decision underlines the importance of communication and understanding in relationships, especially when it comes to sensitive subjects.

Sharing one's truth can be a cathartic experience, and for McBryde, it is also a way to connect with others who may share similar stories. She recognizes the power of vulnerability in her music, stating, "I go back to: If I feel this way, I'm not the only person that feels this way." By expressing her own challenges, she inspires others to confront their feelings and experiences, reinforcing the idea that no one is truly alone in their struggles.

As McBryde's album The Devil I Know was released on September 8, it not only marks a significant moment in her career but also serves as a testament to the strength found in honesty and storytelling. Through her music, Ashley McBryde invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, offering a sense of solidarity and understanding.