Star Makers International grand winner Ashley Cortes stands her ground amid hardships in life in her debut single “I Rise Above.”

The anthemic track written and produced by ABS-CBN Music operations and creative head Jonathan Manalo highlights Ashley’s powerful vocals that blends with the song’s message of embracing one’s growth after going through difficult times.

 Last July, Ashley became the first grand champion of the global singing competition Star Makers International held in Los Angeles, California.

The multi-genre singer-songwriter has performed across the United States and Philippines and has previously worked with popular Filipino artists including Freddie Aguilar, Lani Misalucha, Angeline Quinto, Vice Ganda and Sam Milby. 

 She was also a featured artist and a voice over actor for “Pacha’s Pajama,” an interactive children’s story, alongside a celebrity cast that includes Mos Def, Cheech Marin, Genevieve Goings and Lester Chambers. Following her passion for music, Ashley finished her degree in Professional Music, specializing in Songwriting, Vocal Performance at the Berklee College of Music where she graduated summa cum laude. She also has a master’s degree in Music Business from New York University.

 Check out Ashley’s debut single “I Rise Above” available on various digital streaming platforms.