There isn't a specific formula that guarantees music resonates with people. Sometimes it's the theme; other times, it's the production. Occasionally, it's about the lyrics; and at other times, it’s the performance. However, Bashy possesses all these elements, and his 2024 album ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’ has certainly struck a chord with listeners.
Real name Ashley Thomas, Bashy recently performed at Cross The Tracks in Brockwell Park, marking his first festival appearance in London in 16 years—an impressive milestone considering that ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’ is his first official album release in over a decade. Attracting one of the largest crowds of the day, Bashy delivered an outstanding performance that was moving, humorous, and above all, entertaining. It showcased a comprehensive view of his creativity and his deep connections to the London Borough of Brent.
“The album resonated with people,” he told Clash a few days after that remarkable performance. “I believe that’s made people eager to experience those songs live. On stage, I’m giving everything I have to bring those songs to life in the best way possible.”
“It’s genuine to me,” he describes the album, “and to others who share my background. Kids from inner cities, essentially. Growing up in the same areas. Regardless of whether you look like me or not, it’s all part of the same fabric of music we grew up listening to, whether you recognize that or not.”
Bashy highlights these elements in his performances. The production features stunning visuals, and at one point, he shifts gears, sharing a medley of inspiring tracks from his youth, including soulful reggae from Dawn Penn and UK garage by MJ Cole. “For me,” he states, “this is all about standing in my truth and being my authentic self.”
Rooted in his neighborhood, ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’ conveys themes that resonate universally. Take ‘How Black Men Lose Their Smile’—a poignant track on the album, his live rendition is strikingly powerful. “It does feel like poetry,” he reflects, “and that’s because it originally began as a poem. Performing it for an audience is a unique experience—people witness you express your emotions, and each time I perform, it brings me back to the moment I composed it.” “The album provides a voice for people from our environment, telling our story. But if you're not from there, and are curious about how another culture and community grows up, then the album is for you as well.”
His first album release in 15 years, ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’ came with an element of risk. Now primarily recognized as an actor, Bashy was uncertain if his festival sets would attract an audience. “I thought, will people even want to watch? What if they’ve never heard of me?”
He needn’t have been concerned. There is a significant amount of appreciation for Bashy—his earlier works like ‘Black Kids’ are part of the UK rap landscape, and ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’ entered the UK Top Ten. “For those new to this, experiencing this story for the first time at a festival and engaging with it… that’s incredible. Asking a question on the mic and having people respond with energy… it’s remarkable. It reflects the stage production, the effort everyone put into the music, and the narrative we’ve been sharing.”
Celebrated for his role in the iconic Black British drama Topboy, Bashy draws from his acting experiences when crafting the narrative of a song or album. His current work exudes a cinematic quality, coupled with depth and intention. “Being involved in film and television, constantly reading scripts week after week, has helped me pinpoint what I appreciate and what I don’t. I’ve learned how to keep an audience engaged and effectively tell a story.” “I've always told stories, but I’ve honed that skill now. I've learned from many who have more experience than I do, which has contributed to my growth. I’d say it coincides with a stronger sense of self. I possess the lyrical ability to articulate what I want to say. In my younger days, I may not have had the patience, but now, every line is deliberate. I wanted to make the most of my time in the studio—every line had to be meaningful.”
As a performer, Bashy draws inspiration from the artists that initially motivated him. As a teenager in London, he witnessed performances by influential groups like Pay As U Go Cartel, Heartless Crew, and So Solid Crew. Growing up in a Caribbean household, he attended shows featuring Buju Banton and Yellowman. Additionally, studying videos of hip-hop legends like Jay-Z and Nas contributed to his foundation, but it was a series of collective sets on pirate radio that truly focused the young Bashy.
“That’s my origin,” he emphasizes. “Being in a room with 20 to 30 young men, striving to seize
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There isn't a fixed formula that allows music to resonate with individuals. At times, it may be the theme; at other moments, it could be the production quality. Occasionally,