Why Ashlee Simpson might be ‘the Pat Benatar of the older ladies’

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Ashlee Simpson has a cold, and thank goodness for that.

The singer-actor, who has three kids ranging from 4 to 16 years old, understands that it’s inevitable for her to catch a bug occasionally due to their age.

She remarks with a hint of congestion during a late-afternoon visit to her artsy residence in Encino, which she playfully describes as “controlled clutter”. Essentially, she’s managing, but acknowledges that it was a fortunate coincidence. Prior to the event? Absolutely, she accepts it.

Forty-year-old Simpson eagerly anticipates the upcoming weekend, marking the start of her new residency at The Venetian resort in Las Vegas. This is her comeback to the stage following a significant hiatus from her pop music career, which began back in the early 2000s as the more rebellious sister to teen-pop icon Jessica Simpson.

MTV’s “The Ashlee Simpson Show,” a spin-off of the groundbreaking “Newlyweds” featuring Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey, documented Ashlee’s life. At 19 years old in 2004, Ashlee launched her debut album, “Autobiography.” It immediately peaked at number one on the Billboard 200. However, her reputation took a hit when she was exposed for lip-syncing during a performance on “Saturday Night Live.” Later, she explained that acid reflux had affected her voice.

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After putting out two more albums, “I Am Me” in 2005 and the electronic-flavored “Bittersweet World” in 2008, Simpson mainly focused on her family life. In 2008, she had a son with her then-husband, Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy. Their marriage ended three years later. Subsequently, she tied the knot with actor and musician Evan Ross, starting a family with him, having a daughter and a son.

Despite life’s unexpected turns, as Simpson describes, her early music characterized by gritty guitars and sugary-rough vocals became a significant influence for upcoming artists blending pop, rock, and punk genres. A closer examination of “Autobiography” and “I Am Me,” both produced with songwriter Kara DioGuardi and producer John Shanks, reveals a musical evolution that can be traced through the works of Miley Cyrus, Paramore, and Olivia Rodrigo.

In the previous year, Simpson commemorated the 20th anniversary of “Autobiography” by performing a short set at a nightclub in West Hollywood. However, the upcoming Venetian performance, starting this Friday and continuing until September 27, marks her first comprehensive shows in years. After our meeting, she had just wrapped up rehearsals with her six-piece band, comprising four female members.

“God, it’s been so much fun,” she says as her French bulldog, Banksy, yips at her feet.

Are you performing tracks from each of the three albums? Indeed, revisiting these tunes takes me back to when they were first created, making me feel a bit nostalgic as if I’m looking at my younger self. It leaves me thinking, “If only I could travel back in time and offer a comforting embrace to that person.

Why did it seem appropriate to carry out this action now? When I celebrated the 20th anniversary last year, I felt a sense of fulfillment. Although I only performed three songs, I had a strong feeling that I should continue. Las Vegas seemed ideal because it’s not far from home, allowing me to still be present for my children and to assess whether this was the right path for me.

This situation serves as a test case, but it’s more than that for me. It’s something I’ve been craving and yearning for. You see, ever since I was a young ballerina and continued dancing for my sister, I’ve developed a deep passion for performance. Lately, I’ve been missing the thrill of performing, the rhythm of music, and the joy of creating-the whole experience that comes with the grind. To be frank, I just want to let loose, toss my hair around, and immerse myself in the music once more. My band is amazing, and I can’t wait to perform with them again.

Music

In the past few years, I’ve barely seen Joel and Benji’s pop-punk band take the stage, but that all changed when a renowned pair requested us to perform at their wedding in the enchanting south of France.

Was it significant to you that the band primarily featured women musicians, given their music embodies empowerment and self-expression for young women? Creating these albums served as a kind of therapeutic outlet, with each bridge serving as a personal moment of healing for me.

Of all your songs, which one has the most impactful bridge? Is it ‘Shadow’ or ‘Love Me for Me’ that leaves such an indelible mark, taking listeners on a journey through lyrics like ‘I’ve been waiting all my life to finally find you / Just so I can push you away.’ This song seems to depict a first relationship and still holds a personal significance for me even at 40 years old.

The “Autobiography” track showcases a raw intensity in the vocals, with me often venturing to the limits of my vocal range. It’s as if I’m channeling the spirit of artists like Courtney Love, Shirley Manson, Fiona Apple, Debbie Harry, Pat Benatar, and Chrissie Hynde, who have all inspired me throughout my career.

I was struck going back to “La La.” Pretty racy.
We went there.

At Henson Studios, when I see you, expect me dressed as a French housekeeper. And just like a curious alley cat, once I taste your milk, I’ll want more! But let me clarify, this is all in fun and inspired by an inside joke between Kara and myself. During that time, Kara was quite supportive, acting like a big sister, guiding me through self-discovery, and lending a patient ear.

Was she able to instill a sense of security within you? Besides making me feel secure, she allowed the wild side to surface as well, and she even trusted this wilder aspect. Finding our ideal collaborators for both production and writing was truly unique and memorable; it was just the three of us, creating something raw and extraordinary. John played a disciplining role in my life, albeit positively so. He would say things like, “Alright, young Ashlee – it’s time to buckle down.” This firm approach felt like authentic mentorship to me.

It’s quite evident now that your first two albums paved a way for artists such as Olivia Rodrigo. Do you notice the impact?

Yes, I can definitely hear it – one hundred percent. But let me clarify, they are more gifted than I ever was. And yes, I too had my influences. Perhaps I am like Pat Benatar for the older generation. My daughter and her friends, they have their Olivias and Paramores; to them, I’m like an ’80s singer was in my time, if you catch my drift.

As a young movie enthusiast, I had a wealth of experiences stored up within me, largely from witnessing my sister’s journey through the industry. Seeing her signing, understanding what the studio expected of her, and observing fan reactions all fueled a fierce protective instinct in me – a sense of “Leave my sister alone.” This experience undeniably shaped the artist I became, as I vowed never to let myself or others be treated disrespectfully. So I stood up strong, ready to speak out against any form of mistreatment.

Allow me to clarify – I experienced an extreme high followed by an extreme low during my time on “SNL”. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: Just because people seem to dislike me for losing my voice, it doesn’t define who I am. It was a dehumanizing feeling, but I had to remind myself of who I was and why I took on this endeavor. People’s perceptions of us are not our true selves. Discovering this at a young age was quite an intense experience.

Could the phrase “I Am Me” have had a different impact if Saturday Night Live (SNL) never occurred? Well, it might not have been as unfiltered, but I’m glad it did because it delved deeper. It became darker too – developing thick skin while still showing great vulnerability. When confronted with something so traumatic and being scrutinized by the world like that, one could choose to hide or stand strong and persevere. And I chose to persevere.

It’s rather clear to assume that one of the most memorable “Saturday Night Live” flubs was Lana Del Rey’s performance back in 2012. When you recall that incident…

It seems indisputable that Lana Del Rey’s 2012 performance on “Saturday Night Live” is among the most iconic blunders. Recalling that moment…

“Hold on, what do you mean?
I don’t seek out to witness others’ mistakes – I’ve faced enough of my own challenges already. In fact, I greatly admire her as an artist. However, I avoid dwelling on such matters or watching people struggle, because I too have experienced failure. That’s not something I engage in.

What makes your third album stand out so much from the first two is that it seemed to be quite progressive for its time. Since I was creating it in 2007, we hadn’t seen other artists yet who were embracing the ’80s sound. I was inspired by bands like Missing Persons and Talking Heads. However, I was still figuring out my direction at that point since I had two different versions of the album. Some songs I wrote with Jenny Lewis from Rilo Kiley and Beth Hart, and when I listen back to them now, I can’t help but wish those were included in the final version.

How does that particular version sound? It has a more laid-back, casual vibe with a hint of folk or singer-songwriter style. However, I later changed direction and moved towards something different. At the time, I was immersed in a lighter, carefree phase of my life. Listening back now, some parts seem unfinished to me.

I’d really enjoy discussing the collaborations I had with Jenny Lewis, Beth Hart, and John Legend. Working with these talented artists was truly an exciting time for me. At that point in my life, I was attempting to move forward creatively, leaving behind some aspects of myself as I matured – at the age of 22 or 23, I also became a parent. There are still many lyrics from that era I take pride in.

The lyrics from “Bittersweet World” suggest that everyone is trying to conceal their habits, which can seem odd when it defines who they truly are. It’s unfortunate that things have come to this point in life. I try to hide my vices and maintain a positive attitude despite everything being uncertain. I’ve been touring since I was 14, and at heart, I long to be a mother.

In this version, the meaning of the original text remains intact while using more natural language that is easy for readers to understand.

Was ‘The Ashlee Simpson Show’ one of the finest reality series of its time? Absolutely! It wasn’t just a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a band, but rather an intimate portrayal of my personal journey. The producers, Matt [Anderson] and Nate [Green], captured me during crucial milestones in my career – from releasing my album to its success, performances on ‘SNL’, touring, and even spending time with my kids at the Sherman Oaks Galleria. Their understanding of me and our connection made this series a truly unique and special experience.

Music

As I’m writing this, the somber and moody song has been ruling Billboard’s Hot 100 for six weeks straight. And guess what? Warren’s first album drops on Friday!

Twenty years down the line, viewers like us have grown more skeptical towards reality TV as we’re aware that a significant portion of it is staged or manipulated.

Although I can’t confirm whether your show was authentic or not, it certainly seemed real to me.
Indeed, it felt very genuine. There were moments when I became genuinely upset and wanted them to leave me alone, as something particularly distressing had happened. But they would always remind me of their affection and the necessity for us to continue working together. Our bond was strong and loving, and I believe that the experience was worthwhile at the time.

Compared to “The Ashlee Simpson Show,” the reality show we did together in 2018 felt less truthful due to the presence of cameras in our home during a crucial period of family growth. We are private individuals who value the protection of our lives and families, so having someone film my children playing wasn’t comfortable for me.

To tell the truth, it seems quite daunting. As a parent, it’s a far cry from being a young girl: “Pop in my apartment – I don’t know how to mop. Welcome!” The fact is: We gave it a shot, but it wasn’t our cup of tea. I won’t be participating in reality TV again.

Do you regret it?
I don’t because it was a lesson learned: This is not what we want to do.

In the year 2020, your sister released a memoir titled “Open Book,” which stands out among celebrity memoirs for its openness and honesty.

Did her method prompt you to reflect on the way you narrate your own story? It seems quite therapeutic for her, and she’s aware that it has a healing effect on others as well. I believe we all express our truths differently.

The author mentions that her eldest daughter shares a resemblance with you due to their close bond and being the first-born. For me, it’s delightful because I’m like an aunt who enjoys teaching the kids gymnastics moves on the trampoline. I could potentially injure myself one day, but for now, it’s a lot of fun!

What insights do you have regarding Ashlee Simpson’s new music? Engaging with her previous works again in 2025 seems to have ignited fresh waves of creativity within her.

Are the grunge-inspired guitars from your early albums still significant to you? Yes, indeed, but there’s also a strong country vibe that runs throughout them. However, I wouldn’t consider myself making a country album anytime soon. I appreciate blues, soul, rock, and roll, and these genres have a significant influence on my music.

Is the fact that the Vegas show is only running until late September one of the reasons it attracted you initially? However, after rehearsals, I’m not entirely sure if that limited duration still appeals to me. At this point, I can’t say for certain about the end date. This opportunity seems to present questions: Am I interested in performing here? Could I experiment with new material, and what could that possibly lead to? While I don’t have a specific answer yet, I am open to exploring these possibilities.

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2025-08-26 13:31