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Asha K
Capturing Asha’s personality in words is like trying to rein in an indescribable energy. Asha is a TV personality, performer, musician and singer who allows her talent to shine while maintaining a captivating balance of confidence, composure and mischief. From her childhood in the UK and growing up in Australia, Asha always knew she wanted to be a performer. Drawing her inspiration from her dad’s music collection, Asha grew her love of performing from an early age learning piano, flute, guitar and becoming involved in various choirs and bands throughout the years. Asha’s diversity as a performer has seen her excel in her television career, which includes MTV, Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, Fox, MyspaceTV, and has also seen Asha’s first TV nomination for Favorite Female Personality at the ASTRA awards in Australia.
With these firmly tucked under her belt, she now resides in LA and has expanded her horizons internationally. Asha’s passion for what she does is as infectious as her sense of humor and her cheeky smile. She embraces the lighter side of life with a free spiritedness unusual for someone with such ambition and talent. With a refreshingly down to earth approach to her natural ability and the celebrity status it has brought her, from the moment we met Asha it was impossible to ignore the animated and charismatic energy that she radiates.
Describe your childhood, where did you grow up?
I was born in Birmingham UK, then moved to Brisbane Aust when I was 8. Did all my high school and university there (I have a BA in Film and Media Studies), until moving to Sydney when I worked in television.
Where does your love of music and performing stem from?
I think listening to my dad's music collection: Simon and Garfunkel, Pink Floyd, Santana, and Supertramp definitely influenced my love of rock! Then of course the obligatory grunge stage in high school. I’ve just always been surrounded by music.
Describe your personality?
Very crazy! I’m always on the go, funny (I love making people laugh), bubbly, I can never sit still, I love life, I’m very active, and I always need to be doing something or creating in some way!
You are a professionally trained musician, tell us about that?
My parents put both my sister and I into piano lessons when we were six and we’ve continued with that. I started playing the flute in school and did extension programs outside school. I've always been involved in my church bands which is a great training ground for any musician. I’ve been lucky enough to record music for Walt Disney Records when I was involved in Disney (for the ‘Chicken Little’ Australia release). I also used to sing in a reggae band that toured Vanuatu, and the QLD state choir that I performed at the 2001 Goodwill Games opening ceremony with.
What is your favorite form of expression?
I don’t know if I can put it in order of preference. I think it’s a typical trait of a creative person that their mood changes from day to day as to how they want to express themselves! One day I wake up with inspiration to write a song (I’ve recorded about 40 or so original demos), or the next I’m feeling gung-ho about networking and meeting with network executives to show them my demo reel. Other days I might want to veg out with my husband, watch obscure indie flicks and cook something yummy. It really depends!
You seem very confident on television, do you find working with high profile musicians and celebrities intimidating?
I sometimes can get a little nervous before a shoot, especially if it is live. There have been times where we are interviewing, for example, Chris Brown and we only have 5 minutes to totally nail it and shoot a great interview. I think sometimes the thought of a certain person or band can be intimidating, until you meet them and they are totally cool and all the ‘buzz’ talk was just silly hype. Dave Grohl and Nate Mendel from the Foo Fighters were just such rad guys, chatty and NO entourage. It made for a great experience all around!
You come across as very ambitious - what are some of the things you have set your sights on achieving in the next few years?
I always want to be involved with various creative forms, and forge new paths in my field. I want to continue hosting TV shows, something big like American Idol, SYTYCD or X Factor would be an ideal gig! I also want to continue having side projects like the Myspace TV show im currently involved where I can be in touch with new music out there. I also want to be able to help others wanting to break into the industry and be a positive role model for young girls. I want to show that having real talent, and being individual is paramount to being popular or famous.
Who or what inspires you?
Firstly my parents. For so many reasons, too many to list here but they have been so selfless with my siblings and me.
Second, in my industry I would say Cat Deeley. She is an amazing, beautiful and talented TV host who never flaunts her sexuality and is always engaging to watch. She has succeeded in so many shows that it really spurs me on to do my best and achieve my goals. Thirdly, missionaries. Growing up in a Christian church we would hear a lot about them. I can’t describe how selfless and amazing and humbling it is to literally give up your own life, so that it might benefit even one other person.
What made you accept the offer to become an Eden Advocate?
I love what the brand stands for. I love how Element is like a big huge family who embraces everyone’s individuality and gives them a platform and a voice which they may not otherwise have had. Plus, the clothes are incredible! I literally live in them. They pretty much speak for themselves!
What advice would you give to girls thinking of embarking on their own performing career?
Be yourself, always stay true to that. Celebrate who you are! Don’t let anyone, any situation or anything else deter you. Dream big, keep your options open and always be nice to everyone around you. Work hard, and equip yourself to be the best you possibly can.
