In honor of Women’s History Month, here is my March playlist featuring all genres of all-female trailblazers in the music industry.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (I Love You Baby)” – Lauryn Hill, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
A soulful take on the classic “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli, Hill’s melodious vocal riffs paired with beatboxing elevates this time-honored love song. Not only was The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill the first hip hop album to win album of the year at the Grammys, but it would pave the way for many hip hop, R&B, and black female musicians for years to come. Many continue to be inspired by Hill’s vulnerability and lyrical mastery.
“Gimme More” – Britney Spears, Blackout
Following the New York Times’s release of The Framing of Britney Spears, I think we can all agree on one thing – Britney deserved better. Crucified by the media for her parenting style, relationships, and struggles with addiction, Spears’s mental and physical health suffered greatly. Her 2007 release of Blackout came amongst the controversy. While I could talk for hours about the injustices done against Spears and the degradation of successful women by the media, let me say that Timbaland’s production style coupled with an unrelenting club beat makes “Gimme More” completely unapologetic.
“OHFR?” – Rico Nasty, Nightmare Vacation
A newcomer, Rico has risen to fame in recent years for her off-beat style, which is the culmination of experimental rap, hip hop, hyper pop, and metal. Rico defies typical standards of femininity and beauty in the music industry by rocking mohawks, extreme gothic makeup looks, and rapping about luxury houses, fast cars, and getting revenge. Rico’s style is unconventional, aggressive, and nightmarish, in the best way possible.
“Edge of Midnight” (Midnight Sky Remix) – Miley Cyrus, Stevie Nicks, Plastic Hearts
Cyrus features Nicks’s distinguishable 16 note guitar riff on her new song “Midnight Sky.” In her own words, “Midnight Sky” is about the fluidity of Cyrus’s sexuality and her “belongingness” to no one. Nicks’s classic “Edge of Seventeen” carries notes of nostalgia, grief, and anger, following the passing of fellow musician John Lennon. Both of these women are pillars in the rock community. Their impressive vocals and whimsical style set them apart from the rest.
“Here I Am” – Dolly Parton, Coat of Many Colors
A playlist of female trailblazers simply wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Dolly Parton. This country singer/actress/philanthropist/songwriter/businesswoman has been a beacon for intersectionality within country music and united a vast fanbase that includes everyone from gospel artists to members of the LGBTQ+ community. Parton’s twang and sweet-sounding voice accommodate this song about unconditional love and support.