Country Music Icon Shania Twain Calls for Change: Equity and Diversity Must be Featured in the Genre.
In a powerful acceptance speech at the CMT Awards, country music legend Shania Twain used her platform to call out the lack of diversity and equity in the genre. The award, which she received on Sunday night, is given annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. For Twain, it was an opportunity to bring attention to a pressing issue that has plagued country music for years.
"I honestly had no idea at the time it would become an undercurrent of a decades-long career," Twain said in her acceptance speech, referencing one of her biggest hits, "Man I feel like a woman." She went on to explain how that phrase had taken on a life of its own, empowering communities around the world and becoming a symbol of female empowerment.
Twain's message was clear: country music needs to do better. The genre, she argued, is at a critical juncture in its history, with an all-inclusive approach that values diversity and promotes equity being essential for its future success. "I believe in an all-inclusive country music," Twain said. "We're family." This message was echoed by the fact that her acceptance speech celebrated not just herself but also other female artists who are breaking barriers in the industry.
Twain highlighted several talented acts on her upcoming tour, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By spotlighting these artists, Twain aims to promote greater representation and inclusion within country music.
In a bold move, Twain performed acappella with the African American singing group The BoykinZ while presenting an award on stage. This moment marked a significant step forward in bridging the gap between different communities and celebrating diversity in the genre.
Twain's words were met with applause and admiration from fans and fellow artists alike. Her commitment to creating change is inspiring, and her message resonates deeply. As Twain said, "I will continue to do my best as a trailblazer." With her voice and influence, she's pushing country music towards a more inclusive future where everyone has an equal chance to shine.
In a powerful acceptance speech at the CMT Awards, country music legend Shania Twain used her platform to call out the lack of diversity and equity in the genre. The award, which she received on Sunday night, is given annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. For Twain, it was an opportunity to bring attention to a pressing issue that has plagued country music for years.
"I honestly had no idea at the time it would become an undercurrent of a decades-long career," Twain said in her acceptance speech, referencing one of her biggest hits, "Man I feel like a woman." She went on to explain how that phrase had taken on a life of its own, empowering communities around the world and becoming a symbol of female empowerment.
Twain's message was clear: country music needs to do better. The genre, she argued, is at a critical juncture in its history, with an all-inclusive approach that values diversity and promotes equity being essential for its future success. "I believe in an all-inclusive country music," Twain said. "We're family." This message was echoed by the fact that her acceptance speech celebrated not just herself but also other female artists who are breaking barriers in the industry.
Twain highlighted several talented acts on her upcoming tour, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By spotlighting these artists, Twain aims to promote greater representation and inclusion within country music.
In a bold move, Twain performed acappella with the African American singing group The BoykinZ while presenting an award on stage. This moment marked a significant step forward in bridging the gap between different communities and celebrating diversity in the genre.
Twain's words were met with applause and admiration from fans and fellow artists alike. Her commitment to creating change is inspiring, and her message resonates deeply. As Twain said, "I will continue to do my best as a trailblazer." With her voice and influence, she's pushing country music towards a more inclusive future where everyone has an equal chance to shine.