Kesha’s current legal battle sheds light on a multitude of issues showing how rough the music industry can be, especially for women. The challenges female artists face in the industry have been prevalent for a long time. For example, music festivals are still a huge boys’ club with very few women headlining – hence the birth of Lilith Fair. Additionally, the oversexualization of women and focus on looks rather than talent, show the lack of value for women in the industry. It is evident the music industry still has some improvements to make.
However, women of the music industry are nonetheless fighting to make strides. From the days when rock and roll was dominated by male writers and performers, we are now looking at an industry where where women are writing and performing their own music in all genres and topping the charts.
So, in case you forgot how badass women can be, here are 80 songs from powerful female artists guaranteed to reinvigorate your love for women in the music industry.
With artists ranging from Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin and Dolly Parton to TLC, Haim, Yoncé, Nicki Minaj and MØ, crank up the volume and enjoy!