Country Music's Long-Overdue Reckoning: Shania Twain Calls for Change
Shania Twain has used her platform as a country music icon to speak truth to power, sparking a necessary conversation about equity and diversity in the genre. The legendary singer-songwriter was honored with the Equal Play Award at Sunday's CMT Awards, using her acceptance speech to call out the industry's long-standing issues.
Twain reflected on the impact of her own career, noting that one of her most iconic phrases - "Man I feel like a woman" - had become an anthem for women and marginalized communities worldwide. The phrase, she said, has empowered countless individuals and brought her immense joy.
However, Twain also acknowledged the industry's glaring shortcomings. She believes that country music should be inclusive, saying, "We're family." Yet, the current standard of play does a disservice to this rich history, which raised her as a songwriter, performer, and recording artist from childhood.
Twain's commitment to change extends beyond her own career. She is actively spotlighting diverse acts on her "Queen of Me" tour this year, featuring artists like Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By doing so, Twain aims to promote equal play for all artists, regardless of their background or identity.
As a trailblazer in her own right, Twain vowed to continue fighting for change. "Together, let's ensure all our fellow artists get equal play regardless of gender, age, or race." Her words serve as a rallying cry for the country music industry, which has long been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity.
Twain's decision to connect with The BoykinZ, an African American singing group who are rising stars in their own right, was a poignant reminder that change starts with individual actions. By using her platform to amplify marginalized voices, Twain is helping to create a more just and equitable country music landscape.
Shania Twain has used her platform as a country music icon to speak truth to power, sparking a necessary conversation about equity and diversity in the genre. The legendary singer-songwriter was honored with the Equal Play Award at Sunday's CMT Awards, using her acceptance speech to call out the industry's long-standing issues.
Twain reflected on the impact of her own career, noting that one of her most iconic phrases - "Man I feel like a woman" - had become an anthem for women and marginalized communities worldwide. The phrase, she said, has empowered countless individuals and brought her immense joy.
However, Twain also acknowledged the industry's glaring shortcomings. She believes that country music should be inclusive, saying, "We're family." Yet, the current standard of play does a disservice to this rich history, which raised her as a songwriter, performer, and recording artist from childhood.
Twain's commitment to change extends beyond her own career. She is actively spotlighting diverse acts on her "Queen of Me" tour this year, featuring artists like Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By doing so, Twain aims to promote equal play for all artists, regardless of their background or identity.
As a trailblazer in her own right, Twain vowed to continue fighting for change. "Together, let's ensure all our fellow artists get equal play regardless of gender, age, or race." Her words serve as a rallying cry for the country music industry, which has long been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity.
Twain's decision to connect with The BoykinZ, an African American singing group who are rising stars in their own right, was a poignant reminder that change starts with individual actions. By using her platform to amplify marginalized voices, Twain is helping to create a more just and equitable country music landscape.
I'm so glad Shania Twain is finally speaking up about the elephant in the room - or rather, the lack of diversity in country music 
. It's about time someone with her platform and influence uses it to advocate for change 
. Her acknowledgment that she herself has benefited from a historically white-dominated industry is the first step towards true reform 
.
. Instead of just throwing her hands up in the air, she's using her "Queen of Me" tour as an opportunity to highlight talented artists from underrepresented communities 
. It's not just about checking off a diversity box - it's about amplifying voices that deserve to be heard 
.
. It's a powerful reminder that country music is (or should be) for everyone, regardless of background or identity 
. I'm excited to see where this momentum takes us - a more inclusive, equitable country music landscape is long overdue! 
! It's about time the country music industry steps up its diversity game 
. I mean, who says you can't have your girl power anthem AND representation of marginalized communities at the same time? 
she's absolutely right, country music has been super exclusive for far too long & it's time for A CHANGE!!! i mean, think about it, the genre is supposed to be all about heartland roots but we've got artists like her pushing the boundaries & making space for everyone else. 
anyway, shania twain is literally my queen 
and i love that she's using her "Queen of Me" tour to feature diverse acts - it's about time we see more people from all backgrounds up on that stage 
