"Songs From the Center of the Universe" Now Streaming on Major Platforms

Ashland Song Contest winner Ginny Ray headlines the debut album Songs From the Center of the Universe

The 2024 Ashland Song Competition album, Songs From the Center of the Universe, is now available for streaming on all major platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify. This compilation features heartfelt and inspiring tracks celebrating the rich history and vibrant community spirit of Ashland, Virginia—affectionately known as the Center of the Universe.

The album includes winning and standout entries from Ashland Song Competition winners, showcasing the incredible talent of musicians and songwriters inspired by the town’s heritage and charm. Local artists found inspiration in Ashland’s storied past, from its beginnings as a railroad town to its evolution into a vibrant hub of creativity. These songs pay homage to the sense of belonging, history, and resilience that define Ashland.

Downtown Ashland Association Director of Operations Louise Keeton expressed her pride, saying, “Local talent blew us away during the 2024 Ashland Song Contest. It is so heartwarming to see how inspired artists are by our historic hallmark town. It is even more special now that their songs can reach the whole world through these streaming platforms—perhaps the whole universe!”

Tracks such as Ginny Ray’s "Ashland Song," with its touching lyrics about a place “where the people are nice, friendly, and dear,” and Bruce Capofferri’s ode to the welcoming streets of Ashland remind listeners of the warmth and uniqueness of this small town. Gray Gurkin’s "In the Center of the Universe" captures the simplicity and charm of Ashland’s identity, while Aiden Hamilton’s "The Phoenix’s Rebirth" reflects its enduring spirit. Listeners are invited to start streaming from their favorite platforms today.

Celebrate at the Album Release Party

In addition to streaming Songs From the Center of the Universe, join us for the official album release party on Friday, January 24, 2025, from 5–6 PM in the private event room at Center of the Universe Brewing Company. Hear K101.2 POP Home of The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy play the album over COTU’s rocking speaker system while you sip out of this world brews and enjoy dinner from Ashland food truck favorite Bikini Panini. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow music lovers and support local talent!

2025 Ashland Song Contest: Submissions Open in May

The next chapter of this musical journey begins Friday, May 23, 2025, when submissions for the 2025 Ashland Song Contest open at the first Ashland Fourth Fridays event. The contest invites musicians of all backgrounds to compose original songs inspired by Ashland’s history and culture.

Contestants will vie for the opportunity to record their track at Free Jambalaya Studios, a top-tier recording studio in downtown Ashland and have their song featured on major streaming platforms. The winner will be announced at the final Ashland Fourth Fridays on Friday, August 22, 2025, and will also perform at the town’s annual Light Up the Tracks celebration in November.

Stream the Sound of Ashland Today

Celebrate the creativity of Ashland by streaming Songs From the Center of the Universe today. Let these melodies transport you to the heart of Ashland, where community, history, and artistry harmonize beautifully.

Start streaming at https://lnkfi.re/ashland 

Ashland Fourth Fridays Rain Plan: The Party Rolls On—Rain or Shine!

As Hurricane Helen looms, threatening to rain on our parade, Ashland’s spirit is far too strong to be dampened! Our Ashland Fourth Fridays celebration is still on, thanks to the generous support of local venues. Should the weather take a stormy turn, we’re moving the fun indoors to the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, Studio 54, and Slipped Disc. No matter what, this Friday, September 27, will be full of art, music, food, and pride!

🎶 Singing in the Rain (Indoors!)

The highly anticipated Ashland Song Contest will shift into the cozy confines of Slipped Disc, where Free Jambalaya will record the performances live. Since space is limited for in-person viewing, we’re excited to announce that Downtown Ashland Association will stream the event on Instagram and Facebook stories (@AshlandVirginia). Grab your umbrella, check your Wi-Fi, and tune in to enjoy these local talents as they serenade us with their best tunes.

🌈 TransJam: A Rainbow Indoors

Rain or shine, we’re celebrating Virginia Pride in all its colorful glory! TransJam Events, a trans-led organization dedicated to fun, inclusive events, will move their vendors indoors at 110 Thompson and the much-talked-about Studio 54. Expect to find a vibrant mix of arts, crafts, homemade jams, pastries, original art, and tarot readings, all under one roof.

Whether it’s drizzling or pouring, let your true colors shine! Dress in your brightest rainbow attire and show your pride as we come together to create a dazzling display of unity and joy. Who knows? Maybe our vivid energy will chase away the clouds!

📚 Food and Fun at Hanover Arts

The fun continues indoors at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, where food and craft vendors will bring their offerings, and Free to Read will host a children’s book giveaway. There’s something for everyone—from face painting to a delicious array of treats from local vendors. The festivities begin at 5 PM, kicking off with an incredible performance by the Ashland Dance Academy, featuring a dynamic mix of ballet, hip-hop, and musical theatre.

And if you’re looking to keep the groove going, don’t miss The Sweet Potatoes, an amazing jazz quartet known for soulful covers, original tunes, and spontaneous jams that’ll have you dancing in no time. Rain won’t slow this crew down!

🍽️ Food Trucks and Local Fare

For those craving a little more bite to their Friday fun, Monique’s Crepes and Bikini Panini food trucks will still be parked outside Ashland Dance Academy and Ashland Town Hall, serving up delicious sweet, and savory delights. And if that’s not enough, TransJam will be bringing their food truck as well!

👻 Spooky Indoor Fun

The immersive games by RED VEIN Escape will also move indoors, offering a thrilling challenge, while the ever-popular Ashland Haunted History Tours delve into our town’s eerie past, rain or not.

🛍️ Late-Night Shopping

Local shops and restaurants will stay open late, offering farm-to-fork feasts and curated art, gifts, and housewares. No need to rush home! Rain or shine, there will be plenty to explore and enjoy.

⚠️ Keep an Eye on the Weather

While we hope the storm passes and allows us to party outside, we’ll make the official call after 1 PM on Friday, September 27. Stay tuned to Downtown Ashland Association’s Facebook, Instagram, or AshlandFourthFridays.com for updates on whether we’re sticking with the sunny day plan or shifting to our rainy day backup.

Let’s make this Fourth Friday one to remember—whether under the stars or under a roof!

September Fourth Fridays Guide

Get ready for an extraordinary evening in historic downtown Ashland! The final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is upon us, and this year’s celebration is extra special. Join us on September 27, from 5-8 PM, for an event that not only highlights our community’s spirit but also marks a key celebration of Virginia Pride—a spectacular month-long tribute to the LGBTQ community across the state.

A Night of Dynamic Entertainment

The festivities kick off at 5 PM with an impressive lineup of performances by the Ashland Dance Academy at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. From the elegance of ballet to the energy of hip-hop and the flair of musical theatre, these talented dancers will bring the stage to life.

Following the dance performances, enjoy a free concert featuring the Ashland Song Contest winner Ginny Ray, who will grace us with her award-winning song. The celebration continues with special performances from other song contest finalists, showcasing their original Center of the Universe-themed creations.

And don’t miss The Sweet Potatoes, a fearless jazz quartet known for their soulful takes on classic covers, innovative originals, and spontaneous jams. With vocal scats, vibrant violin riffs, and a dynamic rhythm section, they’ll have you grooving all night long.

Delicious Bites and Unique Finds

As you enjoy the music and performances, explore an array of vendors around Ashland Town Hall and 110 Thompson Street. TransJam Events, a trans-led service dedicated to organizing fun, inclusive, and engaging local events, will be bringing you a diverse range of vendors offering everything from homemade jams and pastries to original art and tarot readings. 

Treat yourself to sweet and savory crepes from Moniques Crepes or savor Mediterranean-inspired pressed sandwiches from Bikini Panini. Capture a memorable photo with a special guest at 110 Thompson Street—previous visitors have included Bluey, Princess Belle, and Queen Elsa. And don’t forget to grab some free popcorn and cotton candy from Ashland Dance Academy!

Show Your True Colors

In celebration of Virginia Pride, we encourage everyone to let their true colors shine. Dress in your brightest rainbow attire and show your pride as we come together to create a colorful, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re waving rainbow flags or sporting colorful accessories, let’s make this event a vivid display of unity and joy.

Art, Entertainment, and Community Spirit

Discover more artistic wonders with KandiMan’s original soft sculptures in front of Changing Reins, and browse Immagine LLC’s art outside Ashland Meat Company. Don’t miss Free to Read’s book giveaway outside the Ashland Branch Library. Engage in immersive games with RED VEIN Escape or delve into Ashland’s darker history with the Ashland Haunted History Tours.

Local restaurants and shops will stay open late, offering delicious farm-to-fork feasts and showcasing curated art and housewares, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Join the Celebration!

This final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is not just a community event; it's a celebration of inclusivity, pride, and local spirit. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to experience a night of vibrant entertainment, diverse food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Let’s celebrate our community, embrace our true colors, and make this a night to remember. See you in downtown Ashland!

August Ashland Fourth Fridays Guide

Looking for the perfect way to start your weekend? Look no further than Ashland Fourth Fridays! On August 23, from 5 to 8 PM, downtown Ashland transforms into a bustling hub of free entertainment, shopping, and community fun. Get ready to dive into the weekend with excitement and joy, as we've got an array of activities lined up that will make your Friday evening one to remember.

Shop 'Til You Drop at Ashland's Unique Stores

Why not kick off your weekend with some late-night shopping? The Ashland Museum is your first stop, offering fascinating exhibitions and Secretariat-themed merchandise that captures the town’s rich history. If you're looking for local art and crafts, head over to RefunkIt for unique home, office, and wardrobe items, plus cool gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Celebrating a decade of joy, make sure you gallop to Tiny Tims Trains and Toys for state-of-the-art model trains, must-have toys for all ages, and Breyer Horse Painting!

Don’t miss The Shop at 112, open exclusively for Fourth Fridays, where you can find curated home decor, paint selections, mixers, and Ashland-themed merchandise. RichmondReallySews sells handmade crafts inside 110 Thompson as a fundraiser for their upcoming Frocktails Fashion Show, while Paint Me a Perfect World offers unique jewelry and oddities outside RED VEIN Escape. At Ashland Tattoo Company, discover a variety of items for your home and wardrobe from various vendors. And the award-winning Free to Read booth outside the Ashland Branch Library is back, offering free books suitable for youth and young adult readers – take as many as you can carry!

Engaging Entertainment to Light Up Your Friday Night

The evening kicks off with the highly anticipated announcement of the Ashland Song Contest winner. The lucky winner will not only perform their Ashland-themed song live at September’s Ashland Fourth Fridays but also grace the Light Up the Tracks Celebration and be available for streaming on major music platforms. Don't miss this chance to witness local talent shine!

At the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, enjoy a double feature: the Ashland Dance Academy will showcase their newest dance routines, followed by a free Nashville-style concert by Kari Smith of Rhythm Ranch. For those seeking a bit of adventure, RED VEIN Escape offers immersive escape room experiences that are sure to thrill.

For a touch of celebrity glamour, 110 Thompson hosts a special guest for photo ops – past guests have included favorites like Princess Belle, Bluey, and Queen Elsa. Plus, they’ll be handing out free treats like popcorn and cotton candy. And for a dash of local lore, join the Ashland Haunted History Tours as they celebrate five years of spine-chilling stories with tours around town.

Savor the Flavors of Ashland

Ashland’s farm-to-fork cuisine is staying open late to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in Farmview Creamery’s delicious soft serve at Ashland Town Hall, and grab a perfect cup of coffee or tea from Classic Coffee and Tea at 110 Thompson. Bravo Bake Company sets up their perfect pastries outside of Changing Reins - just in front of outdoor dining and picnic areas along Railroad Avenue.

Join Us for a Fantastic Fourth Friday!

Make this Friday a night to remember by joining us at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23. With a fantastic lineup of free entertainment, unique shopping experiences, and delicious food, it’s the perfect way to start your weekend on a high note. See you there, and let's kick off the weekend with a bang!

Kick Off Your Weekend at Ashland Fourth Fridays!

Ready to jazz up your Friday evening? Ashland's Fourth Fridays are back on Friday, July 26, and we’ve got a night packed with family-friendly fun, food, and fantastic music! Here’s the scoop on what’s happening around town:

Groovin' Tunes and Dance Moves
The Ham Biscuits are serving up a hearty helping of New Orleans-style jazz, soul, and blues at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. The concert is free, so bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes!

At 5 PM, the Ashland Dance Academy will dazzle us with their adorable dance numbers on the Town Hall Pavilion Stage. Stick around afterward for pictures with Bluey and free blue cotton candy! Inside 110 Thompson, glam up with free fairy hair extensions.

Delicious Bites and Cool Treats
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Farmview Creamery soft serve truck on the Town Hall Lawn. For those in need of a caffeine fix, Classic Coffee and Tea’s truck will be parked outside Ashland Dance Academy.

Art, Tattoos, and More!
Check out the original Ashland-inspired artwork sold by Immagine LLC outside of Ashland Meat Company. Feeling adventurous? Ashland Tattoo Company will have vendors set up outside with some cool gear. The award-winning Free to Read program is back outside the Ashland Branch Library giving away as many free books as you can carry.

Spooky Adventures
RED VEIN Escape is hosting vendors and games, adding an extra thrill to your evening. Plus, Ashland Haunted History Tours is celebrating five years of ghostly tales! Use the code BOODAY24 when booking online to get 20% off your tour through July 27.

Late-Night Local Flavor
Beloved Ashland spots stay open late and keep the good times rolling:

Calling All Songwriters!
Got a tune in your heart inspired by Ashland? Enter the Ashland Song Contest! The winner will perform at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23, win a recording session with Free Jambalaya, streaming on major platforms, a $100 Town of Ashland gift certificate, original cover art, and a spot at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration on November 23. The deadline is Sunday, August 18.

So come on down, bring the family, and let’s make this Friday one for the books. See you there, neighbors!