Get 'Nice N Naughty' with Ashlee Keating This Christmas
With Christmas just two days away, what better way to get into the festive spirit than with multi-talented Ashlee Keating? Known for her Billboard-charting hits and vibrant energy, Ashlee is making the season sparkle with her new single, "Nice N Naughty." This playful anthem blends holiday cheer with flirty charm, perfect for cozy nights or dancing under the mistletoe.
In this exclusive chat, Ashlee shares her love for Christmas, her journey from Broadway to Billboard, and the creative magic behind her latest video.
Check out the full interview below!
Mature: Your newest holiday single, "Nice N Naughty," just dropped. What inspired the concept behind the song, and how do you hope listeners will connect with it during the holiday season?
Ashlee Keating: Awe, thank you so much! I love the holidays and Christmas so much. "Nice N Naughty" is a smart, fun, and flirty concept based on whether you're naughty or nice. It's a clever and original idea that's never been done before, and I'm asking Santa, in a fun way, to bring me my dream guy who's a little bit of both—nice and naughty. You can't just have one; you need a little of both, duh! (laughs). It's fresh, fun, and sexy while also bringing the essence of holiday cheer and magic. I really hope people feel the holiday spirit but can also relate to the lyrics and have fun while listening.
Mature: The holidays are such a magical time. Can you share the creative process behind the music video for "Nice N Naughty" and what makes it stand out from your previous releases?
AK: I appreciate that. It's a little bit different vibe from the others because it's a solo music video of myself with a little bit of a vintage feel which I love. We kept it very simple and elegant.
Mature: Growing up in Southern New Jersey, you discovered your love for music at a young age. How did your upbringing shape your journey into the music and entertainment industry?
AK: I was always very hard-working and determined in any aspect of my life—whether it was sports, school, or whatever (laughs). My work ethic and mentality have shaped me into the artist I am now and where I'm going. Coming from a small town in South Jersey shaped me artistically and musically. From day one, I always wanted to be in entertainment..
Mature: Your career has been incredible, from Broadway when you were six to becoming a Billboard-charting artist. How have your early acting and performing experiences influenced the artist you are today?
Ak: Being on Broadway at a young age taught me so much and prepared me for the industry. I still use everything I learned back then in my career today and continue to grow from that now. Broadway was a huge part of my life because I love singing, dancing, and acting.
Mature: Your single "SAUCY" became an anthem for female empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community. What does it mean to you to create music that resonates so profoundly with these audiences?
AK: It's everything really and means so much. I have always found how people react and take to my music intriguing. The support from my fans is everything to me! I do all I can to inspire and make music that is vulnerable to me and that connects and resonates with my listeners and fans.
Mature: You've worked with top-tier talent, like producers Tommy Brown and choreographers Mikey Minden and Jamie Ruiz. How do these collaborations push your creative boundaries and help you grow as an artist?
AK: I love being pushed. If I’m not pushing myself, I’m not growing or becoming better. Those specific people are so talented and creative at what they do—it only elevates what I'm working on.
Mature: Philanthropy is an integral part of your life. From working with GLAAD to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, what drives your passion for giving back, and how do you incorporate that into your music career?
AK: Giving back and philanthropy have a huge place in my heart. I don’t just use my gifts for myself—I use them to help others and give back through my platform. I love teaming up with organizations or supporting foundations through events or performances whenever I can.
Mature: Your style is vibrant and full of life. How does fashion affect your personality and music performances?
AK: Thank you so much! I’m definitely confident and outgoing most of the time, and I think that’s reflected in my fashion sense and music. I love thinking outside the box—doing and creating things others haven’t done or making them my own. I love to stand out!
Mature: As someone who has become a strong ally for the LGBTQ+ community, what has participating in Pride celebrations and creating empowering music meant to you personally and professionally?
AK: It’s meant so much. The LGBTQ+ community holds such a huge piece of my heart. I have family members who are part of the community, and I’m a huge activist and ally. I strongly believe in equality and in people feeling like they can be who they truly are. Feeling like an outcast is not fun—everyone should feel loved and accepted. Being chosen to perform at Pride celebrations and spread messages of love and equality through my music and artistry is always an honor.
Mature: What does 2025 look like for you?
AK: It's going to be EPIC!! I cannot wait to share all the things coming next year!
Mature: What does mature mean to you?
AK: To me, it’s about being fully developed and grown—knowing how to react and communicate with grace, strength, and intelligence.