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UWindsor | Culture

Women Who Changed the Music Industry Forever

Tonya McGie Student Contributor, University of Windsor
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UWindsor chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

In a male-dominant industry, having influential female figures is important. Many pop stars are admired by young children and teenagers. These female figures demonstrate that women are capable of doing the same things as men. Women face many challenges in the music industry, including lack of support, discrimination, and unequal pay. Despite these setbacks, there have been many women throughout the years who have made a significant impact on the music industry. These are five women who I believe have made the biggest impact. 

Britney Spears 

Britney Spears’ impact on the music industry is no doubt a significant one. During the 1990s and 2000s, her name was everywhere. Her debut album …Baby One More Time charted on the Billboard 200, and some of her hits are still being discussed today. Britney set trends for the future of music and pop culture. Her impact was a strong one, with many of today’s artists still talking about the legacy she left. 

Madonna

Madonna challenged the social norms of the 1980s and 1990s. During her career, she supported many causes that were seen as controversial. She advocated for women’s and LGBTQ rights, with many saying her career would be over. Her style and sound also promoted female power, constantly pushing boundaries. She paved the way for future artists, making her one of the most influential female figures in pop culture. 

Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s impact on the music industry comes from her representation. She dominated in a white-dominant industry, becoming one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Her contribution to the music industry broke barriers for future artists of colour. Her career continues to inspire many, proving that talent knows no boundaries.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga has had numerous hits advocating for LGBTQ rights. Her hit Born This Way left a significant mark on society. She broke music industry norms by exploring themes of sexuality and she expressed herself through her bold fashion statements. She inspired many of today’s artists with her creative risks and boldness. Lady Gaga is truly an artist who has impacted the music industry significantly. 

Taylor Swift 

Taylor Swift is one of the most talked about artists today. She is constantly promoting women’s rights and she is a huge influence for many girls today. Her song The Man mentions the struggles of being in a male-dominant industry, along with the double standards and sexism she and many others have experienced. Her most recent tour, The Eras Tour, broke many records and has been talked about for the past two years. There is no doubt that Taylor Swift has made a huge impact on the music industry. 

There have been many influential women in the music industry. Whether they are known for their hit, or their support for many various causes, there is no denying that these women have all had successful careers that will be talked about for decades.

Tonya McGie

UWindsor '27

Hi, my name is Tonya! I am a writer at the University of Windsor. I am a second year psychology major. When I am not writing, I enjoy baking, scrolling through Pinterest and listening to music.