For the Culture, By the Culture: Ashley Currie Celebrates A Decade of Urbaanite

A fourth-generation Nashvillian (sixth-generation Middle Tennessean), Ashley Currie grew up out South in a once thriving African American community (that would be gentrified into areas known as 12 South and WeHo). After moving to Chicago before high school, she spent her summers in Nashville, always connected to her roots. She earned her degree in marketing with dreams of becoming a young, thriving corporate powerhouse in a big city. Working for some of the nation’s biggest brands, Ashley gained invaluable insight into media, publications, and magazines—where she quickly noticed a glaring gap between the general market and Black-owned media.

Returning to Nashville, Ashley found a city that had grown, shifted, and evolved—one that no longer resembled the home she once knew. Eager to explore, she sought out the top restaurants, events, and experiences. But as she scrolled through “top 10” lists, she saw what was missing: that mom-and-pop spot in that Black neighborhood that should be recognized as a staple, that church where you catch the Holy Ghost through by hearing the voices of the choir, that Black-owned café where generations have gathered, the historical landmarks that hold her community’s history. So many classics, so many unheard. That void sparked the creation of Urbaanite.

“One of the biggest sparks was making sure we have a place we feel welcome—places with good vibes. Coming back into my city, I saw so many local businesses and business owners that weren’t getting the recognition they deserved.”

Inspired by the city’s tastemakers, vibe curators, and safe spaces for Black Nashvillians, Urbaanite was born. With a mission to center her community and tell the stories mainstream media overlooks, Ashley set out to amplify local businesses, lifestyle, culture, and the arts. Ten years later, that mission remains unchanged. With hundreds of businesses highlighted, dozens of unsung heroes recognized, and more lit events spotlighted than one could count, Urbaanite has become the mecca for the culture in the city.

Look back at some of our milestones and good times at Urbaanite over the years

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Being a Black woman entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart. In a position often overlooked or underestimated, Ashley takes those challenges in stride:

“Sometimes when you are underestimated, it gives you more room to shine, more room to move, navigate, and get things done. It’s been an interesting ride, a cool ride, a ride I’m still very much on.”

The reception of Ashley’s work has been a source of pride and motivation. “Seeing someone at an event or in the street say, ‘Oh my gosh, I just read this story’ or thank me for featuring them—that’s it. That’s why I do what I do. Seeing people’s reactions makes it all worth it.”

In an ever-changing media landscape, where authenticity is often compromised, Ashley leans on her faith to stay the course. “I firmly believe that if you’re obedient, you can never miss out on what God has for you. Having that focus helps because you don’t waver as much.”

With every photo, every memory, and every story, Ashley hopes Urbaanite will serve as an archive for Nashvillians 50 years from now. And she’s just getting started.

“If Urbaanite is remembered as the voice of our community, then I’ve done my job.”

Here’s to ten more years of tastemaking, ten more years of amplifying, and ten more years of elevating the culture—one story at a time.

Headshot photos: Elle Danielle

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