Ashling Cole
Ashling Cole's musical journey began at just 6 years old when she was accepted into the prestigious San Francisco Girls Chorus to study opera. However, her musical path shifted at age 12 when she heard Whitney Houston on the radio and fell in love with R&B. By 17, Ashling had signed with Interscope Records and recorded with producer Teddy Riley, but when the deal fell through, her world crumbled. Devastated and disillusioned, she stepped away from music, taking up a job waiting tables. The following years were filled with anger, disappointment, and regret, leading Ashling to a battle with depression, self-medication, and a physically abusive relationship. At 20, after a near-fatal suicide attempt, she woke up in the hospital with a newfound determination to change her life.
That pivotal moment led Ashling to rebuild her life. She found stability in a corporate job, marriage, and motherhood while rediscovering her faith. Becoming a worship leader at South Bay Community Church in Fremont, CA, deepened her spiritual connection and renewed her passion for music. A chance encounter with guitarist Wilton Rabb opened the door to an audition with Larry Graham, and soon after, Ashling was performing with Graham Central Station. Her remarkable voice and energy have taken her across the globe, sharing the stage with legends like Sheila E., Prince, Jonathan Butler, Donnie McClurkin, and more. She currently performs on the annual Dave Koz Cruise, delivering powerful solo performances and unique collaborations.
In 2016, Ashling’s world was shaken again by the loss of both parents within eight
months. The grief was overwhelming, but it also drew her closer to God. Just two
years later, she faced her own battle with breast cancer. Viewing the diagnosis as part of her spiritual journey, she declared, “I am already healed; I just have to go through the process.” That process included chemotherapy and surgeries, but today, Ashling stands fully healed, having reclaimed her voice and purpose.
In 2020, Ashling’s talent and testimony reached new heights when she competed on BET's *Sunday Best*. Each week, her story of healing and faith resonated deeply with audiences during the global pandemic, and she ultimately finished in the top four. She went on to collaborate with Marcus McCauley to produce “Exceedingly,” a triumphant song she had written years earlier. Partnering with producer Dave Jackson, she released fresh takes on gospel classics like “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” and Donald Lawrence’s “You Are an Heir.” In 2022, she signed with MMS Records and is currently working on new music.
Today, Ashling serves as the worship leader at PFBC in Richmond, CA, where she
continues to inspire others through her voice, faith, and powerful message of hope.
Whether through a song, prayer, or words of wisdom, Ashling is always ready to uplift those in need.
For booking inquiries, visit www.ashlingcole.com/booking or email Renee Lee at
booking@ashlingcole.com. Ashling’s music is available on all digital platforms.
