Women Who Changed the Music Industry

March is Women’s History Month celebrates women who have made their stances known throughout their field. Women have made a substantial impact on everyone’s lives throughout history. The music industry contains astonishing women who create music and changed the course of how the music industry is run today. 

Lauryn Hill

This singer-songwriter is recognized as one of the most influential artists of her generation. She was the first Hip-Hop artist to win Album of the Year at the Grammy’s and constantly inspires new rappers and pop artists daily. Her craft on her album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” is highly rewarded and recognized today after being released almost 25 years ago. 

Beyonce

Beyonce is well-known and recognized by almost everyone in the music industry. Her hard work and dedication to her craft never go unnoticed. After the surprise release of her self-titled album “Beyonce”, it became common standard to release music on Fridays instead of Tuesdays. Billboard even changed the way charts were established after the Friday releases. Her Coachella performance remains one of the most famous headlining shows at the music festival and is discussed yearly. 

Madonna

Madonna is an artist who was known to break the norms of being a pop star. Her reinvention of music production and visual appearance has been highlighted the most throughout her career. Her courageous choices in pop have inspired pop artists that are listened to today, like Katy Perry and Lady Gaga. 

Taylor Swift

This popular singer-songwriter has made her mark on pop culture in multiple ways. Her call to action through feminism and influence on many artists of all genres create a breaking image for music today. As New York Magazine states, her albums inspired a new generation of singers and songwriters. Not only did Swift inspire singers and songwriters, the recent announcement of “The Eras Tour” is in the process of recreating the sales of concert tickets.   

Shakira

Shakira is a vital figure in Latin music. Many admire her success in the Western and Global parts of the music industry. Some even crowned her the "Queen of Latin Music" after her impact in the music industry highlighted the popularity of reggaeton music in Western culture. Her music allowed her to share her talent and culture with the world from a new perspective. She influences popular artists including Lauren Jauregui, Karol G, Justin Bieber, and more. 

Lizzo

Lizzo is an artist who kick-started her career at 21 and did not stop to make her presence known. She is highly recognized for her popular music and fearlessness to stand up to anyone who gives her a hard time. She is viewed as an inspiration to many through her motivational music and dedication to being comfortable with yourself despite what other people may say. 

Women in many industries do more to stand out in the sectors they work so hard in. With the history of many male-dominated fields, plenty of women shine through with the perseverance of standing out with their male counterparts. While March is a month dedicated to women’s impact everywhere, remember to recognize women beyond March.