With a larger-than-life personality to match her voice, diva-in-waiting

Ashley Martin could hardly contain her excitement ahead of sharing the stage with her icon Gladys Knight at the Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival. She’s sharing cocktails with us at her favourite spot — Christopher’s Jazz Lounge — and sparkling in her own Attitude by Ashley Martin creation.

What are you sipping?

I’m not usually a lover of alcohol, but I occasionally enjoy a Smirnoff Apple Martini.

What kind of day are you having?

It was a day which I will treasure, because I spent it with friends.

Socialite or homebody?

I’m a homebody… don’t think anyone will believe me, but I am.

Flats or stilettos?

Stilettos, darling, all the way!

What’s your essential style item?

My ‘BlingBerry’ (her BlackBerry is covered with Swarovski crystals).

What’s your style?

Chic, classy… very Audrey Hepburn with a splash of diva.

What’s in your clutch?

My BlackBerry, my Iman compact, lip gloss, my keys and Fendi purse.

Who does your hair?

Pamela Johnson at Diamond Touch in Clock Tower Plaza.

Who does your nails?

Natasha Heslop at the same place.

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

Cruising on a beautiful yacht, listening to Teddy P and sharing laughs over a good sirloin steak.

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

Someone who’s honest, listens and treats me like I’m the last woman on earth.

What’s your latest obsession?

I don’t really obsess, but I’d have to say it’s my BlackBerry.

What’s on your iPod?

Alicia Keys, Tessanne Chin, Shaggy, Sean Paul, Gladys Knight, Tina Turner, Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, Etana, Buju Banton and Freddie McGregor… those are my great loves.

What projects are you currently working on?

I want to start the Ashley Martin Foundation; I think there are so many homeless children who could be doing so much more if they have security and opportunity.

Who or what inspires you?

People like Bob Marley, people like my mum; selfless people, who are willing to give up the last bit of what they have without thinking that they’ll be able to get more.

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve been given?

“Dream big, it’s free” by Cecile Levee, and it’s something I’ll never forget.

And 10 years from now?

I see myself collecting my fifth Grammy, being compared to people like Patti LaBelle, but with the proud legacy of being a daughter of the Caribbean.