" When you see a chick that’s not the skinniest girl in the room, covered in tattoos, you go, ‘That girl wants to stick it to the man.’ But we don’t give a damn about the man. At all. We just want to make music. "
- Ashley McBryde

In this statement, Ashley McBryde expresses her perspective on societal expectations regarding women's appearance and how they relate to artistic expression. She notes that when someone sees a woman who does not fit typical beauty standards—such as being heavier or sporting tattoos—they might assume she wants to challenge conventional norms. However, McBryde clarifies that while this perception may be accurate for some, it is not her primary motivation. Instead, she emphasizes that her focus lies solely on creating music and defying expectations because it aligns with her personal values rather than a desire to make a statement against societal conventions.

The deeper meaning of McBryde's quote delves into the complexities surrounding female identity and artistic expression in contemporary society. She suggests that while there is often an assumption that women who do not conform to conventional beauty standards are doing so out of defiance or rebellion, this may be only partially true. For artists like herself, challenging norms might simply be a byproduct of pursuing their passions without regard for societal expectations. This perspective highlights the importance of understanding individuals on their own terms rather than projecting external interpretations onto them. It also underscores how personal motivations can diverge from perceived social messages, highlighting the need to look beyond surface-level assumptions and instead recognize authentic intentions.

Ashley McBryde is a country music singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics that often touch on themes of resilience and individuality. Her background in blue-collar work and experience with overcoming challenges has greatly influenced her musical style and lyrical content. This quote exemplifies her candid approach to discussing issues surrounding identity, societal norms, and the freedom to pursue one's passion without conforming to expectations.