Embracing Unique Voices: A Spotlight on Ace Stiles (The Unique Voices Club #31)
- Alexia Rowe
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 5
Celebrating the Unconventional
Every Friday, I dive into the world of singers with unique voices that often go unheard in mainstream music. My goal? To educate emerging artists and music lovers while inspiring them to embrace their quirks. This week, I’m excited to shine a light on Ace Stiles.
Ace Stiles faced national outrage when he didn’t advance to Hollywood Week on Season 19 of American Idol. Why? The feedback was that he was "too introverted." Seriously? I don’t get it. They’ve let through contestants who can’t even keep a beat! You don’t need a booming voice to create great art, Katy, Luke, and Lionel. Just look at Regina Spektor and Ingrid Michaelson—both indie folk artists like Ace who have made their mark. This is why singing competitions need to hire me! So, do me a favor and share this blog far and wide.
The Oklahoma Sound
When you think of Oklahoma, country music might come to mind. After all, Blake Shelton and Carrie Underwood hail from there. But Ace, a trans artist rocking embroidered vests and vintage stripes, is based in Tulsa. He’s not the first Oklahoman to get booted early from a singing competition to maintain the musical status quo in Southern states. Still, I don’t think Ace is missing out on much. I mean, can you name more than a couple of Idol winners? Kelly Clarkson and Fantasia are the only ones I can think of off the top of my head.
Maybe Michael Bublé would appreciate him on The Voice instead. (Even he initially overlooked Mark Shiiba). I’m grateful for platforms like Make Oklahoma Weirder that continue to support Ace as he creates art and fights to express himself.
Ace's Unique Sound
Ace struggles to categorize his music. He describes it as "a modern spin on jazz and rock" and "an alternative callback but a contemporary representation." He’s a fan of 50s music and older styles, which really shines through in his work. Listening to him feels like a nostalgic trip back in time. His voice carries the croony quality reminiscent of the Everly Brothers and Elvis, but with his own unique twist. The fast vibrato and distinct diction make it sound like it’s coming off an old record.
He released his debut EP, Grudge, a year after his stint on TV. Then, he re-recorded the songs with his testosterone-tinged voice for a re-issue called Still A Grudge. The uniqueness was evident in his original voice, but now, with his deeper tone, he sounds more mature and folksy. I honestly think he and Sawyer Fredericks should collaborate at some point.
Art Beyond Music
Go give Ace some love on Spotify, firebirds! He has as many monthly listeners as I do, and I haven’t released anything in three years. At the very least, follow him on social media to stay updated on his latest creations. Not only does he make music, but he also creates art. He showcased some abstract paintings at the TAC Gallery in Tulsa. How cool is that?
The Power of Unique Voices
In a world that often favors the loud and flashy, it’s crucial to celebrate artists like Ace Stiles. They remind us that authenticity and individuality matter more than fitting into a mold. So, let’s uplift those who dare to be different.
And that’s a wrap for this week’s Unique Voices Club! Don’t forget to subscribe to the Patreon. By joining, you can contribute to the artistic revolution and suggest artists for me to write about in the future. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this perk, especially if you love music!
Stay educated,
Alexia
