NRG
ASHWARYA is here to remind us that energy isn’t just a feeling — it’s a force. With her latest track NRG, the artist delivers a bold statement in the form of an electro-pop anthem that fuses raw empowerment with infectious beats. From the first beat, you know this isn’t just another track for the playlist — it’s a wake-up call to tap into your inner power and let it rip.
ASHWARYA creates a sound that’s both alluring and electrifying, threading her unique voice through layers of synths and driving percussion. It’s the kind of song that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an alternate universe where energy is all you need to conquer.
Astrophe chatted to ASHWARYA about her inspiration, dream collaborators, what she’s serving at a dinner party and much more. Read below:
Outside of your art form, where do you find inspiration?
My inspiration comes first and foremost from my own experiences. I tend to suppress my emotions, so having an outlet to pour my energy into is crucial for my mental well-being. Music and visuals give me a space to process feelings that I might not always express out loud.
I also love observing people, listening to conversations, picking up on different personalities, and trying to understand the energy they bring into a space. Maybe it’s the Scorpio in me, but I find a lot of creative ideas in the way people move, speak, and interact. It’s almost like figuring out how to approach a song or visual, reading the room, absorbing different perspectives, and channeling that into my work.
Conversations with friends and family are another big source of inspiration. When I feel safe and comfortable, I can express myself more freely, and in those moments, I learn a lot about myself too. My dreams and imagination also play a huge role. I tend to have really vivid dreams, and they often spark ideas for my music or visuals.
And, of course, films - especially the ones from my childhood. Bollywood movies, in particular, had such a strong influence on me, from the colors and dramatic tones to the way they tell stories through music. That world of cinematic storytelling has definitely shaped how I approach my own artistry.
Where do you think you get your personal power from?
It probably comes from being true to myself. I think real power comes from embracing all aspects of yourself, your flaws, your strengths, your fears and not letting anyone challenge that. And I'd owe the ability to do that, to my loved ones who have supported me and allowed me to embrace different sides to myself, whilst simultaneously pushing me to strive higher, shaping me into who i am today.
What is your favourite space?
In my backyard with some friends, my dog and some sunshine :)
Is there something you learnt early in your career that you have now disproven?
I was told that I should stick to one specific style or lane to build credibility and success. But I know that true artistry comes from embracing versatility. Creativity isn’t meant to be boxed in. Trusting my instincts and following what genuinely excites me has led to the most meaningful growth. At the end of the day, no one knows your vision better than you do.
Within your immediate circle of friends and family or chosen family who is your hero and why?
My mum, because she continues to put others first whilst simultaneously working so hard without any complaints. It’s rare to witness such selflessness and strength and I'm lucky to be surrounded by her presence.
How much of a role do other musicians play in inspiring your work?
A huge one of course! I am nothing without inspiration from other musicians and artists across all mediums. I wouldn't be able to create anything inspired without inspiration.
Is there a specific sonic theme, genre or instrument that you draw pure joy from?
Lately the Severance theme track by Theodore Shapiro. Partly because I love the show and partly because of the way it tickles my brain. So eerie yet hypnotic. Two things I can get around.
How does visual aesthetic come into play in your work?
When I’m in the studio writing, I naturally see visuals unfolding in my mind, kinda like a movie playing out alongside the music. That storytelling element helps shape my songwriting process, giving each song a deeper sense of purpose and emotion. It’s a huge part of my artistic identity, and I love immersing myself in building the visual world around my music, making every piece feel like a complete experience.
What are the core values behind your art?
Creating from a place of vulnerability and embracing my emotions in their rawest form at the moment of inception is important to me. My art is driven by experimentation and blending visual storytelling with a cinematic aesthetic to bring my music to life. Beyond that, I strive to empower and challenge stereotypes, carving out space as a woman of color in the pop landscape and redefining what that can look and sound like.
What would be your ultimate song to cover?
This one is so difficult but I have loved covering Wicked Games by Chris Isaak for the longest time!
Who is on your dream collaboration list?
Rosalia, Labrinth and Arijit Singh.
Are there any creatives you'd like to platform right now?
Charles Buxton-Leslie - incredible video director (@chabuxles)
Alice Ivy - supremely talented producer, writer and artist (@aliceivy)
Yurah - Visionary stylist and designer (@yur4h)
What are you holding whilst posing for an oil painting?
My sweet dog, Ollie.
What is your spirit animal?
An elephant
Funeral song(s)?
Channa Mereya by Pritam, Arijit Singh, Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen and All the Stars by Kendrick
What do you own that you should throw out, but can’t?
All of my childhood toys. Every. Single. one.
People are coming over to dinner, what are you serving?
homemade pasta, Salmon Orzo or a curry!
If you could time travel, who are you visiting?
My grandpa in his youth. Would've been a wild time I reckon.
You have a free plane ticket, where are you going?
Tokyo, Japan.
Who are you taking on a date, and where are you going? (time travel is allowed)
I’m taking my mum and dad to their hometowns when they were younger. I think they'd love that so much.
If you could change the end of any film, what would it be and what would you change it to?
Bones and all - id like for no one to be eaten and for me to not feel nauseous.
Why do you think we are here on planet earth at this time?
I don't think there's just one answer to this. Life is kinda terrifying and beautiful at the same time. But probably to create, to love, and to leave something behind that means something, even if it's just to one person. The world feels so overwhelming right now but i think we're all just figuring it out as we go.
What's the weirdest dream you've ever had?
Literally every single one is weird. I dream often and vividly so they are all one big amalgamation of weirdness and it may take a couple pages to write out so ill save you from the novel.
If you were an ice cream flavour, what would it be?
Dark chocolate
Have you ever experienced true love?
Yes…
If you could learn one new skill instantly, what would it be?
To be really good at piano.
See more from ASHWARYA here
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