top of page
Search

Dan Ashley: From News Anchor to Rock Star – The Story Behind Outside Looking In

  • Anthony Bonnette
  • Mar 23
  • 4 min read

The Dual Life of Dan Ashley: Journalism by Day, Rock & Roll by Night

Dan Ashley has been a familiar face on television screens for nearly three decades, delivering the news with that steady, no-nonsense presence on ABC7 San Francisco. But when the cameras turn off, he’s not just heading home to unwind—he’s stepping onto a stage, microphone in hand, leading his band and channeling his passion for music.

Some guys have side hobbies. Dan Ashley has a full-fledged music career. And with his latest single, Outside Looking In, he proves he’s not just another news guy who dabbles in music—he’s the real deal.



Outside Looking In: The Underdog Story We All Know

Dan’s new single, Outside Looking In, isn’t just another song—it’s a story. A classic underdog tale about the kid who never quite fit in but finally gets his shot. Written alongside longtime collaborator Bill Bentley, the track carries that timeless rock and Americana sound, the kind that makes you want to roll down the windows and let the music take over.

“We all love an underdog story, and this is a boy-gets-the-girl story. We can all relate to that in life, you know, when you're on the outside looking in.”

The song, much like Dan himself, is all about perseverance, about sticking with what you love, even when the world might not see it yet.


From Choirboy to Rock Frontman

Dan’s love for music started young—piano lessons, church choir, family jam sessions. But like a lot of kids growing up in the South, sports held his attention for a while. Music, though, had a way of pulling him back in.

He performed in musicals in high school, but it wasn’t until much later—after he had already established himself in the news world—that he found himself fronting a band. It started at a charity event, where he jumped on stage for what he thought would be a one-time performance. Turns out, it was the beginning of something much bigger.

Now, Dan leads a powerhouse band with musicians who have played alongside some of the biggest names in rock.

“It’s a privilege,” he says. “To be on stage and connect with an audience—that’s something special.”

Sharing the Stage with Legends

Dan isn’t just playing small gigs for friends and family—he’s opened for REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Melissa Etheridge, and even shared a stage with the likes of Dionne Warwick and Journey’s Neal Schon.

“I've been able to open for Eddie Money, who was a friend of mine… Cheap Trick, REO Speedwagon… Melissa Etheridge, Patti LaBelle, Rick Springfield… Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. That was a great one, that was a blast.”

But it’s not just about playing the hits—Dan writes his own music, and with songs like Outside Looking In, he’s proving that he belongs on the stage just as much as he does behind the news desk.


The Similarities Between Journalism and Songwriting

At first glance, delivering the news and writing rock songs might seem like two completely different worlds. But for Dan, they’re not so different after all.

“Songwriting is an extension of what I do as a journalist. Actually, I found I'm a storyteller on the air, an observer of the world, and I report what I see. In songwriting, I approach it in the same way as a storyteller.”

That perspective has led to some deeply personal songwriting. Tracks like What Really Matters take inspiration from his experiences as a reporter—moments that shaped his understanding of people, struggles, and triumphs.


Where to Listen and Follow Dan Ashley

Dan Ashley is proving that it’s never too late to chase what you love. Whether it’s anchoring the news or rocking a crowd, he’s all in. And if Outside Looking In is any indication, he’s just getting started.


🎧 Listen and Watch


Follow Dan Ashley


📌 Chapters and Timestamps

  • (00:36) Welcome & Intro

  • (07:48) How Dan Became a Lead Singer (By Accident!)

  • (13:32) Balancing a 30-Year TV Career with Music

  • (30:06) The Meaning Behind ‘Outside Looking In’

  • (48:32) Sharing the Stage with Rock Legends


Why You Should Listen

Dan Ashley’s story is about passion, perseverance, and proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, a songwriter looking for inspiration, or just someone who loves a great underdog story, this episode is for you.


Follow Anthony & Come And Pick It


Suggested Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode, check out these other great interviews from Come And Pick It:


Final Thoughts

Dan Ashley is proving that it’s never too late to chase what you love. Whether it’s anchoring the news or rocking a crowd, he’s all in. And if Outside Looking In is any indication, he’s just getting started.

For more episodes of Come And Pick It, check out Spotify and YouTube.


Comments

bottom of page