By Bob Makin
originally published: 04/04/2025
The Makin Waves Song of the Week, “North Star,” is Jersey Shore-raised singer-songwriter Ashley McKinley’s latest single. PHOTO BY KRIS KHUNACHAK
Jersey Shore-raised singer-songwriter Ashley McKinley co-wrote “North Star” while trying to enjoy college during the COVID lockdown.
The tune is her latest single and the Makin Waves Song of the Week.
As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “North Star” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on April 4 on “Radio Jersey” at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.
“I wrote 'North Star' with my friend Jackie Minton,” Ashley said. “I was sitting on a wooden stool in my landlord's bathroom with my laptop propped on the sink, still trying to figure out Zoom songwriting co-write sessions. She and I were Songwriting majors at Belmont University in Nashville at the time. Jackie and I both love the song ‘Yellow’ by Coldplay and feel it is spiritual in nature. It was only fitting that we wrote ‘North Star’ together as it is about self reflection and redirection, trust in the mystical, God, the universe. ‘North Star’ is about making better choices for yourself, and finding a way to shut out the world for a moment and connect with something bigger than yourself. It's about remembering where you've been and making better choices for next time.”
The chorus of “North Star” describes an unwavering sense of trust and self reliance that’s needed through life's ups and downs.
The soothing harmonies and delicate textures of the mellow country/folk/pop song was helmed by Nashville-based producer Mikey Bar-Lavi.
“I could not ask for a better friend or producer to have made this song shine,” Ashley said.
Due by month’s end, Ashley’s next single, “forever,” is about “a kind of love that must live in your pocket,”she said.
“A love that became like the winds of a tornado, forcing you to remain underground for safety,” Ashley continued. “Ever present, it's always with you, safely tucked away. This song is my touchstone for the grief and happiness that came from letting someone go.”
“I just received the final copy, all shined and ready to go. I cannot wait to share it.”
Ashley long has been exposed to the music industry, having grown up near the musical streets of Asbury Park, where she was able to first cut her teeth as an artist, and then attending college in the Music City of Nashville.
Her influences include Christina Perri, Lake Street Dive, The Chicks, and Carole King. Fans of Kacey Musgraves and Phoebe Bridgers also will appreciate her, especially live when Ashley plays April 6 at Pete’s Candy Store in Brooklyn.
She also recently sang the National Anthem at Barclays Center also in Brooklyn.
For more about the multiple Asbury Music Award nominee, visit ashleymckinley.com.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at [email protected].
About the author:
New Jersey Stage is proud to be the home of Bob Makin's Makin Waves column since 2017. His Song of the Week column comes out every Friday. He also writes an Album of the Month and Interview of the Month as well.
EVENT PREVIEWS
The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band on June 21st
(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band at the Montclair Brewery on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Going Acoustic at Quig's to Mark 4 Years with Featured Sets from Emily Drinker and Gina LC on June 22nd
(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Four years in, Going Acoustic at Quig's is still doing what it does best: creating a welcoming space where artists feel comfortable to take risks, and audiences are lucky enough to hear it unfold. On Monday, June 22, 2026 the beloved open mic series returns to Quig's Pub for its 4th Anniversary Show, with featured performances from Emily Drinker and Gina LC, alongside the series' signature blend of emerging voices and open mic performers.
Cape May Point Arts and Science Center presents Grammy-Nominated Blues artist Guy Davis on June 24th
(CAPE MAY POINT, NJ) -- On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, musician, storyteller and two-time Grammy Nominee for Best Traditional Blues, Guy Davis, will perform at The Cape May Point Arts and Science Center.
Harmonium Choral Society to have France Tour Send-Off Concert on June 24th
(MADISON, NJ) -- Come hear the joyful and varied repertoire 42 singers from Harmonium Choral Society will take on tour to France on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at Grace Church (4 Madison Ave) in Madison. Music ranges from Bruckner to Billings and Bernstein, Rosephanye Powell, Elizabeth Alexander, Lucy Cook, Mark Miller and more! The concert is free; donations at the door are welcome. The church is accessible, air-conditioned, and has ample parking. Showtime is 7:00pm.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Eric Johanson on Thursday
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents New Orleans–based Eric Johanson on Thursday, June 25, 2026. He blends sharp songwriting with a deep connection to the guitar, creating music that's dynamic, soulful, and rooted in a mix of rock, blues, and modern influences. Doors are at 7:00pm, showtime is 7:30pm.
American Theater Group and Union Arts Center present Katerina McCrimmon: Naked Concert on June 26th
(UNION, NJ) -- American Theater Group (ATG), in partnership with the Union Arts Center, will present Katerina McCrimmon's acclaimed solo concert, Naked, which has played to sold-out audiences across the country, including at Joe's Pub and Lincoln Center. Directed by Henry Gainza, it will come to the DMK Black Box Theater at the Union Arts Center for one performance only, on Fri.day, June 26, 2026 at 7:00pm.
MPAC presents Straight No Chaser on June 26th
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- A cappella favorite Straight No Chaser brings its summer-themed Beach Bash to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $57-$114 (All fees included).
Asbury Lanes presents Matthew Curry and Erik Mason Band on June 26th
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- Acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew Curry sets off on his 2026 Spring/Summer "One For The Ride" Tour (named for his new Ruf Records album release) with a performance at Asbury Lanes on Friday, June 26, 2026. Erik Mason Band will open the night. Showtime is 8:00pm.
The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre
(NEWTON, NJ) -- The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Doors are at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm.
Brian Ostering presents The Elvis Spectacular at Middletown Arts Center on June 27th
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