8 Moments When Female Country Music Stars Held Their Own
Discover how powerhouse female country music stars like Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, and Maren Morris defied industry norms and fought back against radio play disparities Explore their inspiring stories of resilience and determination in this must-read article
Over the years, female country artists such as Miranda Lambert, Maren Morris, and Carrie Underwood have been a source of inspiration for us.
In September 2019, Morris collaborated with fellow artists Brandi Carlile, Amanda Shires, and Natalie Hemby to create a supergroup known as The Highwomen. They released their debut album, titled "The Highwomen," receiving widespread acclaim.
“I'm positive you're aware of the substantial underrepresentation of women on country radio, a problem we are determined to address through this album and movement," Morris explained to Zane Lowe, host of Apple Music's Beats 1, just before the release. "I truly felt compelled to join because it's crucial for us to unite in these challenging times."
When radio host Keith Hill controversially stated in 2015 that female artists couldn't generate ratings and compared them to tomatoes in a salad rather than the essential lettuce, numerous musicians strongly voiced their opposition.
Lambert responded on Twitter, expressing her disbelief in the content, stating, "I have never heard such a load of nonsense. I am fully committed to supporting and promoting female singer/songwriters in country music, and I will continue to do so." Keep reading to discover more female country artists who fearlessly advocate for their beliefs.
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8 Times Female Country Music Stars Stood Their Ground
Miranda Lambert, Maren Morris, Carrie Underwood and more female country artists have inspired Us over the years.
Morris joined forces with fellow musicians Brandi Carlile, Amanda Shires, and Natalie Hemby to create a supergroup known as The Highwomen. Their debut album, titled "The Highwomen," was released in September 2019. Morris explained in an interview with Apple Music's Beats 1 host Zane Lowe that the purpose of the album and the group is to address the significant underrepresentation of women in country radio. She felt compelled to join the movement, believing that it was essential for women artists to unite and support each other in the face of these challenges.
In 2015, radio host Keith Hill made controversial remarks suggesting that playing female singers on the radio does not generate ratings. He compared women to tomatoes in a salad, implying they were not as significant as lettuce. In response, several musicians expressed their opposition. Lambert took to Twitter and strongly disagreed with Hill's statement, labeling it as complete BS. She vowed to use her influence and support to champion female singer/songwriters in the country music industry without hesitation.
Scroll down for more female country artists who aren’t afraid to take a stand:
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Carrie Underwood
During a podcast interview in September 2018, the former American Idol contestant criticized the lack of female representation on country radio. Underwood expressed concern for young girls aspiring to be country music singers, questioning how to encourage them when the current reality does not support equal opportunities. She observed the hard work and dedication displayed by many talented female artists, while also highlighting the frequent success of new male artists reaching the top of the charts.
She concluded: “These strong women who are super talented, that totally deserve it, are not getting the same opportunities.”
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Kelsea Ballerini
The singer behind "Homecoming Queen" garnered attention in April 2018 when she spoke out against a divisive poll leading up to the ACM Awards.
In an Instagram post, Ballerini expressed her frustration with how interviews constantly revolve around the presence (or lack thereof) of women in country music. Despite the efforts to be heard and see more representation on the charts and in award categories, setbacks like this poll hinder progress. It creates a sense that there's only room for one woman to succeed, causing tension, insecurity, and compromising the supportive bond that women have for one another in wanting everyone to succeed.
Ballerini emphasized that country music should not mimic the negative culture that exists among teenage girls.
She expressed her concern about the misrepresentation of new female artists in the genre, not wanting them to be portrayed as popular girls in high school who appear friendly in photos but secretly harbor resentment towards those who date popular athletes. Additionally, she stated that it is crucial for the industry itself to avoid fostering such an environment.
Ultimately, Ballerini asserted that all individuals, regardless of their status, should be welcomed and included.
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Maren Morris
Morris has been vocal about hiring other female artists.
"At some point, it becomes necessary to cease discussing the issue and take affirmative action," Morris conveyed to Harper's Bazaar in July 2019. "For instance, if these talented female artists are not given opportunities, then I will bring them along when I tour. Cassadee Pope has already joined me on the road. Currently, RaeLynn is accompanying us. In the near future, I will also have Kassi Ashton, Hailey Whitters, and numerous other promising new talents on stage. Additionally, our team includes female tour manager, female bass player, and female manager."
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Miranda Lambert
Lambert, the singer of "Tin Man," is vocal about highlighting the imbalance between male and female country singers on the radio. Expressing her disbelief, Lambert pointed out that even Carrie Underwood, with her numerous successful songs, faces challenges. Lambert shared her message with radio stations, advocating for the inclusion of any female artist, not just herself, emphasizing the need for collective success. Lambert expressed her determination to continue fighting for change.
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Cam
While commemorating Ballerini’s triumphant achievement of reaching the number one spot with her hit track "Miss Me More" — a feat that hadn't been accomplished by a solo female artist in over a year at the time — Cam also highlighted the significant amount of work that still needs to be done.
"I cannot bear to hear anyone claim that this indicates a shift in the industry," the "Burning House" artist expressed on Instagram. "It is undeniably worse than ever before, and there is no action being taken to address it. If another person mentions the minuscule number of highly qualified women and two Black men on the charts and labels this as a 'Renaissance,' I will livestream myself vomiting."
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The Highwomen
Carlile emphasized the significance of [country radio playing our songs] and ensuring accessibility for women and young women during an interview with the Seattle Times in September 2019. She further expressed that if this support is lacking, it is crucial for everyone to observe and acknowledge the absence, thereby urging change in the future. Above all, the ultimate priority is initiating a transformation.
Additionally, Carlile underscored that their group's objective extends beyond creating exceptional music; it also involves fostering mutual support. "I believe that exceptional music will be the remedy, coupled with our willingness to stand united instead of competing, actively uplifting and promoting one another," Carlile affirmed. "The Highwomen movement was established with this purpose in mind. Our hope is that everyone will aspire to be a Highwoman."
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Martina McBride
In 2015, McBride emerged as one of the initial women to voice her opposition to Hill. In fact, she took her stance even further by creating specially-designed T-shirts featuring the words "Tomato" and "Tomato Lover." Afterwards, the renowned singer of "This One's For The Girls" expressed her thoughts on Tomato-gate through a detailed statement shared on Facebook.
"Wow.....just wow. I recently came across this article in a prominent country radio publication. I'm interested to know your thoughts on the following statement, particularly from the female perspective," she wrote in 2015. "Do you feel uncomfortable when you hear other women singing about experiences that resonate with your own as women? I'm genuinely curious because, in my opinion, country music is about establishing connections. It's about finding solace in someone who understands what you go through on a daily basis. Did you, as core female listeners, realize that you were being viewed in this manner? Is this reflective of your true sentiments? Hmmm…."
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Jennifer Nettles
The Sugarland singer also fired back at Hill in 2015, tweeting, “Don't worry babe. I see an opportunity here. (A) big ole vagina shaped opportunity.”
