Photo Courtesy of Dolly Ave
In today’s ever-evolving music landscape, authenticity remains one of the most powerful qualities an artist can possess. For Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Dolly Ave, authenticity has been the driving force behind a creative journey that seamlessly blends music, storytelling, and visual artistry.
Known for her captivating fusion of indie pop, R&B, soul, and electronic influences, Dolly Ave has steadily built a name for herself through heartfelt songwriting, emotionally rich performances, and a unique artistic vision. Beyond her accomplishments as a musician, she is also an acclaimed photographer whose creative eye has helped shape her distinctive approach to storytelling.
From earning recognition as one of the rising Asian American artists to watch, to sharing deeply personal experiences through her music, Dolly Ave continues to inspire listeners with songs that celebrate self-discovery, resilience, and growth. Her ability to transform life’s challenges into meaningful art has resonated with audiences around the world.
In this exclusive City Stories interview, Dolly Ave opens up about her musical journey, creative inspirations, songwriting process, memorable career milestones, and the stories behind the music that continues to connect with fans across cultures and generations.
Can you introduce yourself to our readers who may be discovering your music for the first time?
Hello, I’m Dolly Ave. I’m a Vietnamese American musician. If you love melancholy lyrics mixed with heavy guitars, that’s what you can expect from my upcoming sophomore record.
How did your journey into music begin?
I used to write poems in my journal in middle school. I had a tough childhood, and my instinct as a kid was to express myself through art.
One day, I decided to attempt playing and singing on the keyboard along with the poems I wrote. It was a private passion of mine that gradually became something more as I challenged myself through talent shows, choir, and other front-facing disciplines.
I’m not sure where the courage came from, but I knew I didn’t want to be shy anymore.
What inspired you to pursue music professionally?
This timeline still doesn’t quite make sense to me. I loved music and writing songs, and on the side, I began sharing them online while working full-time as a freelance photographer. I never once thought of it as a career.
The turning point was the pandemic. I lost my job, my mother, and felt uncertain, along with the rest of the world.
I turned to music, and I’ve been on this journey ever since.
Growing up, what kind of music or artists influenced you the most?
I listened to a wide variety of music growing up. Moving over thirty times definitely influenced the diversity of my musical taste.
Being from Missouri, I was exposed to Midwest emo, pop-punk, country, blues, and folk music. When I moved to Chicago, I was heavily influenced by rap, lo-fi hip-hop, and trap music. Then, living in California, I was exposed to more pop and indie-pop. Going to art school also introduced me to musical theater and classical music.
It makes for good conversation! Which influenced me the most? I’d probably have to say Vanessa Carlton. I decided to practice piano while singing because I wanted to learn her songs. I know she’s best known for “A Thousand Miles,” but her lyrics and her choice of piano as her primary instrument were groundbreaking for me.
What message did you want listeners to take away from the upcoming album?
My main message for listeners would be that we’re all fighting a battle. It doesn’t change as you get older—you just learn how to deal with the punches.
This album is about allowing myself, and hopefully listeners as well, to embrace the frustrations and hardships of life. Those experiences make us human. We all have that in common, and recognizing that can make the journey feel a little less lonely.
Which song on the album feels the most personal to you and why?
I’d say “Bad Brain,” mainly because I go back to that track whenever I’m struggling. It grounds me.
It’s the first track on the new album, the title track of the album, and one of the first songs I wrote. It helps remind me where I started on the journey of finishing this record.
Was there a track that was especially challenging or emotional to create?
“Your Stain” was a difficult process. I had written the song in a writing camp and I knew I loved it but it wasn’t quite where I envisioned it sonically yet. It took a lot of dissecting and production edits. I’m happy with where it landed.
Were there any musical experiments or new ideas you explored during the making of the album?
I had fun being more playful and theatrical on some of the tracks. There are some songs such as “Watch Me” and “Don’t Wanna Turn Back” where I explored different vocal ideas. Those songs got me out of my shell. There were certainly moments where I was hesitant to stay safe in my comfort zone. However, I’m glad I chose to keep these songs because it brings energy to the album.
What can fans look forward to from you in the future?
I’m going on my first headlining tour this July. Expect to see me perform more often!
Lastly, do you have a message for your supporters and new listeners around the world?
Music is a universal language. Thank you for listening and bringing my music into your life.
Follow Dolly Ave and stay updated on her latest music, projects, and upcoming releases by clicking the links below. Don’t miss out on her journey!
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