FULL INTERVIEW "Ups and Downs" & What No One Tells You About University — Cheyna Ash

What do you do when your finances, your housing, and your health all fall apart at once — and you're the one leading worship? In this episode, Cheyna Ash shares the raw story behind her song "Ups and Downs," what she learned about praising God in the lowest moments, and why she believes the church needs to do better by its musicians.

We're so glad you're here! Let us know in the comments: How do you keep trusting God when everything feels like it's falling apart?

00:00 — From a musical family to full-time ministry

Cheyna grew up singing in church with a rapper mom and DJ dad. By 17 she knew she wanted to dedicate her gift entirely to God — and in 2023 she quit her job to make it official.

08:00 — The story behind "Ups and Downs"

Written in one of the hardest seasons of her life — financial instability, housing uncertainty, health challenges — this song is an honest conversation with God about what it really means to trust him in the low moments.

16:00 — Lessons from David for musicians today

Cheyna digs into 1 and 2 Samuel and finds a blueprint for navigating uncertainty, staying close to God when things don't make sense, and holding on to the promise even when you can't see the stars.

22:00 — Advice for young musicians + supporting artists in the church

Practical wisdom on tent-making skills, getting plugged into your college music community, and the biblical case from Nehemiah for why the church should be compensating its musicians.

🎧 Stream "Ups and Downs" on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music

🌐 Website: cheynaash.com

📸 Instagram: @cheynaashe | @naturesingz | @cheynanigans

🎵 TikTok: @cheynanigans

👍 Facebook: Cheyna Ashe Music

❤️ Support Adventist Music by subscribing and sharing!