In this episode of The Hardest Part, host Kieron Banerji is joined by Ashaine White to explore the emotional and creative depths of her song “Hotel.”

Ashaine opens up about how the track was sparked by a phrase she often heard growing up: “You treat this house like a hotel.” At the time, it felt like a criticism — one that stirred up rebellion, anxiety, and a desire for independence. But as she matured and moved into her own space, the phrase took on new meaning, revealing the unspoken fears and sacrifices of her single mother raising daughters in a complicated world.

In a deeply reflective conversation, Ashaine walks us through the dual perspectives woven into “Hotel”: her teenage self seeking freedom, and her adult self understanding the protective love behind her mother’s words. She shares how a simple change — swapping “you” for “Ash” in the lyrics — unlocked the emotional clarity she needed to write the song honestly and with empathy.

The episode concludes with an intimate acoustic performance of “Hotel,” showcasing Ashaine’s raw vocal delivery and dynamic guitar work. This stripped-back version invites listeners to hear the emotional layers embedded in the song — a diary entry in sound, balancing defiance with understanding.

Artist: Ashaine White

Song: “Hotel”

Host and Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji

Recording Engineer & Mix: Max Walker

Creative Team: Callum Baker (Photography), Giovanni Almonte (Videography)

Recording Studio: The Thin White Duke, London

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