We all know her as the voice behind our honest cowgirl pony Applejack and her loyal, fast-flying Wonderbolt Pegasus pal Rainbow Dash. She did an unforgettably awesome job playing as them. Ball cited country singers Miley Cyrus, Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire as inspiration for AJ’s voice and dialect, and I will admit near the end of season 1 she sounded like a younger Reba. I definitely like that. As for Rainbow Dash - in her words - her voice acting was so AWESOME! I really enjoyed the tomboyish, cocky pitch she used, it was perfect. Ball’s performance of Dashie makes me think that she’s the Canadian Michaela Dietz (the voice of Amethyst from Steven Universe). Ashleigh’s performance as these two competitive gal pals will always be treasured among everybrony. Nod She’s also voiced favorite background pony, Lyra Heartstrings. And to add to that, since Ashleigh’s a lesbian, the crew behind MLP:FIM decided to make Lyra a lesbian as well. And, although it’s up to the bronies’ interpretation, Rainbow Dash and Applejack are also a couple. She was even the subject of the documentary A Brony Tale. Now that Friendship is Magic has ended, I think we can all agree that Ashleigh Ball will always be a legend to us. I’m really glad I finally got to meet her at Comikaze perhaps two or three years ago. She was just as awesome as her ponies.
 
Since I forgot to make her birthday pic last year, I finally remembered this year. I didn’t have a vector of Dashie perfect for this, so I made a new one. And I think it works just as well. And of course, what works well, then to have a greeting in the colors of our pretty pony pals. :D  
Applejack and Rainbow Dash by Lauren Faust and owned by Hasbro
 
both vectors by me
 
If you have access to Twitter, tweet to Ashleigh and wish her a very happy birthday. She deserves all the love and appreciation for all she did for us on MLP:FIM. Heart Heart