Shania Twain Calls for Inclusive Country Music Industry
At Sunday's CMT Awards, Shania Twain made a powerful statement in support of greater equity and diversity in country music. The legendary singer accepted the Equal Play Award, using her acceptance speech to urge the industry to become more inclusive.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man I Feel Like a Woman," saying that she had no idea it would become an anthem for women's empowerment. She expressed amazement at how the phrase has resonated with communities worldwide, becoming a symbol of power and joy. This sentiment echoes Twain's own advocacy for country music to adopt a more inclusive approach.
"I believe in an all-inclusive country music," Twain said, emphasizing that the genre is a family that should nurture and support its artists regardless of their background. She argued that the current industry standard falls short, doing injustice to those who have been marginalized or excluded.
Twain showcased her commitment to this cause by highlighting several diverse acts set to perform on her "Queen of Me" tour this year, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and more. She is dedicated to giving these artists equal play, regardless of their age, gender, or race.
Twain's message was reinforced when she performed an a cappella rendition with the African American singing group The BoykinZ during her award presentation. This moment connected Twain with the rising country stars, who were recently surprised by Kelly Clarkson to meet Shania on her daytime talk show.
As a trailblazer in country music, Twain vowed to continue promoting greater equality and representation for fellow artists. Her dedication serves as a call to action for the industry to become more inclusive, embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities for all.
At Sunday's CMT Awards, Shania Twain made a powerful statement in support of greater equity and diversity in country music. The legendary singer accepted the Equal Play Award, using her acceptance speech to urge the industry to become more inclusive.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man I Feel Like a Woman," saying that she had no idea it would become an anthem for women's empowerment. She expressed amazement at how the phrase has resonated with communities worldwide, becoming a symbol of power and joy. This sentiment echoes Twain's own advocacy for country music to adopt a more inclusive approach.
"I believe in an all-inclusive country music," Twain said, emphasizing that the genre is a family that should nurture and support its artists regardless of their background. She argued that the current industry standard falls short, doing injustice to those who have been marginalized or excluded.
Twain showcased her commitment to this cause by highlighting several diverse acts set to perform on her "Queen of Me" tour this year, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and more. She is dedicated to giving these artists equal play, regardless of their age, gender, or race.
Twain's message was reinforced when she performed an a cappella rendition with the African American singing group The BoykinZ during her award presentation. This moment connected Twain with the rising country stars, who were recently surprised by Kelly Clarkson to meet Shania on her daytime talk show.
As a trailblazer in country music, Twain vowed to continue promoting greater equality and representation for fellow artists. Her dedication serves as a call to action for the industry to become more inclusive, embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities for all.