
Jeremy Williams-Chalmers
Arts Correspondent
1:00 AM 8th November 2025
arts
Interview
In Conversation: Ashley Campbell - The Goodnight Nashville Tour
Ashley Campbell heads to the UK this November in support of her recently released third studio album, Goodnight Nashville'. The daughter of country legend Glen Campbell, Ashley Campbell cut her teeth playing in her father’s band and has since gone on to establish herself as a singer-songwriter in her own right, with Goodnight Nashville showcasing her clear-as-a-bell vocals, lyrical prowess and mesmerising banjo playing. To learn more, we caught up with Ashley.
![Ashley Campbell]()
Ashley Campbell
Three albums in! Tell us about Goodnight Nashville.
Goodnight Nashville didn't start out as an intended album; rather, I just wanted to record a few of my songs with some of my favourite musicians in Nashville before I left to live in London. I just wanted to record without the pressure of "making an album", and lo and behold, it ended up becoming an album, and I'm glad it did!
How did you land on the title?
When I moved to London in mid-2023, I saw my 10 years in Nashville coming to a close for the time being. It felt like the end of an era and the beginning of a new adventure. I wanted to say farewell without saying goodbye, so I said goodnight instead. I see this album as a love letter to my time in Nashville, the lessons I've learnt and the lifelong friendships I've made.
Which song are you most excited for fans to hear?
My favourite song on the album to listen to is
I See You. I love the beautiful violin parts played by my friend Derek Pell, and it makes me feel nostalgic and like I'm somewhere out of time. The message is also a strong one for me: just to be present with someone means the world.
You have shared the stage with many big names; what is the best advice you have heard?
Big surprise from my dad. He told me to be a super person, and the superstar will follow. Casually he said the phrase to me over hot wings somewhere in upstate New York while we were on tour together.
Who do you still dream of sharing a stage with?
Dolly Parton would be it for me. A duet with Dolly? Come on. It would be impossible to frown for the rest of my life. Just me and her singing harmony with a guitar and banjo. Heaven.
We are so excited about your upcoming tour. What can we expect?
Believe it or not, I've played many shows in the UK over the years, but this is my first full band tour! I've got Thor Jensen on guitar, Jack Amblin on drums and Ben Nicholls on bass. It's going to be a blast! Audiences can expect a great time and a lot more than just what's on my albums.
And what is your key ambition...?
That's a deep question. Career-wise I'd be so happy to continue making music with the people I love and that I could live comfortably while doing so. Also to always have a dog. Gotta have a dog.
We want to get to know a little more about your musical taste. Tell us a song (and a reason) that makes you:
Smile: Don't Know Why by Norah Jones. How could this song NOT put you in a good mood?!
Cry: "
Stay All Night" by Willie Nelson. I played this song at my friend's funeral. I couldn't even get through the first chorus. He was taken much too soon, and I still miss him very much.
Laugh:Steven's Last Night In Town by Ben Folds Five. When I started driving at 16, I listened to that album all the time, and I used to get so into it my foot got a little heavy on the accelerator, and I got my first speeding ticket while listening to that song!
Feel nostalgic: Wichita Lineman by Glen Campbell. This song has literally been the soundtrack to my life since I was born. It's everything.
Dance in the kitchen: Soul Bossa Nova by Quincy Jones. Impossible not to move around when this song is playing. I know it came out way before Austin Powers, but picturing Austin dancing makes it even more fun.
Sing in the shower:Stars from
Les Miserables. Especially in a marble shower with long reverb, I like to get really dramatic with this one. Let's go, Javert!
Message a friend immediately:Two Princes by Spin Doctors. I hear it everywhere no matter where I am in the world, and it always makes me send a message to my favourite group chat.
What was the best gig you have ever been to?
Honestly, Bela Fleck on his My Bluegrass Heart tour at Cadogan Hall in London was pure fire. The musicianship was insane, and it was such a privilege to watch.
What is the best show you have ever done?
Hopefully, it will be the next one.
What stage have you not performed on that you dream of?
I've performed at the Ryman in Nashville, but I dream of headlining it. Red Rocks would be pretty incredible, though; I've not been there yet.
Lastly, you can achieve one thing by the end of the year; what is it?
I'm getting a dog! I am eagerly counting down the minutes!
Ashley Campbell - The Goodnight Nashville Tour
Sunday 16th November - Music Room, Liverpool
Wednesday 19th November - The Sun Inn, Beverley
Friday 21st November - Selby Town Hall, Selby
Sunday 23rd November - Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle