International Women’s Day: Paying Homage to the Lyrical Ladies

Although the month of March is deemed National Women’s Month celebrating the accomplishments and advancement of women in society, March 8, 2016 is International Women’s Day. First celebrated in 1911, women demanded rights including the right to vote, to hold public office and also raised a voice against employment and sex discrimination. Women’s suffrage wasn’t official until 1920 and women still struggle with “equal pay” in the workforce. However, women continue to make strides towards encouraging education and using our voices. Women in the music industry continue to woo their listeners breaking large feats. It’s only right to pay homage to the women in the music business who have made their mark while encouraging the up and coming women artists to shine their light.

We have created our own list of women in music that deserve a celebration on this special day but before then we want to share a few other companies that our celebrating women in music:

Women in Music is an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering women in music. It’s evident, women and their presence is imperative and many artists are continuing to gain accolades individually and as a whole. The organization celebrated 30 years in 2015 and prides itself on working “innovatetively with each other as the industry continues to evolve.” Last year, Billboard hosted their Women in Music event celebrating the musical contributions of Missy Elliot, Lady Gaga and more. If you are interested in learning more about Women in Music, check out their site!

Spotify is honoring women on this International Women’s Day with a ranking of the most popular women on Spotify as well as encouraging an initiative to increase awareness of women in music. Take a listen to the playlist here.

Check out our list of some lyrical ladies who paved the way, still following their passion, and setting new records. We missed someone? Hit us up with your fave lyrical ladies!

Mary J. Blige