Gator presents Ashton Shepherd certificate for being a Kentucky Colonel – photo by Jessica Blankenship
Frankfort, Kentucky was blessed with an intimate concert by country music singer, Ashton Shepherd on Saturday night. Thanks to 400 fans who clicked to “Demand Ashton” with a special contest, the city won to host the album release concert. Country radio station, Froggy 104.9 FM, hosted the event at the Grand Theatre.
Prior to the show, Ashton Shepherd took a stop by the Froggy studios for an hour long special featuring interview and songs off of both of her albums.
Before taking the stage to sing, the staff at Frankfort’s Froggy 104.9 FM presented Ashton Shepherd a certificate from the Governor of Kentucky, Steve Breshear, proclaiming her an Honorary Kentucky Colonel. Shepherd stated that she was “very shocked and honored” to receive this achievement.
Right off the bat, concert goers felt like they were in the comfort of Ashton Shepherd’s Pickin Shed as she performed her songs. She allowed the fans to pick out the first song, “Ain’t Dead Yet,” of the relaxed setlist. Then she performed the emotionally charged “Whiskey Won the Battle” showcasing Shepherd’s vocal abilities through raw energy. Throughout the almost two our set, Ashton Shepherd told stories of back home country living and tidbit stories of songs. Family was brought up several times and she joked how her baby girl is chilling on one side of her belly listening to the sound of the guitar.
One thing is evident: Ashton Shepherd is real, honest, country. Both on and off the stage, the Alabama native showed appreciation to the country music fans. Frankfort made an impression on her as well as she noted that it was a memorable experience she will definitely write in her her journal to remember forever.
Be sure to pick up a copy of Ashton Shepherd’s “That’s Where Country Grows” in stores now. You can also download bonus tracks via I-tunes that are not on the album.
Jessica Blankenship is the owner and founder of Kentucky Country Music website. The Berea College graduate has been a music journalist and historian for over 20 years. She enjoys providing concert photography, reviews, historical articles, red carpet event coverage, and exclusive interviews of your favorite musicians. Jessica is proud to be a Kentucky Colonel and alumni of the FFA and 4-H Clubs. In 2018, she was named one of Laurel County’s Ten Under 40 Award Recipients. In 2019, she was a member of the Inaugural class of BRIGHT Kentucky as part of Leadership Kentucky. She has been featured on the Kentucky Music Preview podcast, Hollercast podcast, Overtones radio show, WFKY Nashville News Roundup, KET, and more. Beyond music, she enjoys traveling, helping her community, collecting gnomes, and Volkswagens.
