A Landmark Year for Women in Music: Reflections of 2024 so far
2024 is destined to be remembered as the year women took centre stage in the music industry. Across the UK, female artists have not just closed the gender gap in radio airplay — they’ve surpassed their male counterparts, marking an extraordinary milestone in the fight for gender equality in music. In the first half of 2024, women took the lead in the Top 100 songs on UK Radio, with their presence dominating the airwaves. This historic achievement is more than just a triumph for individual artists; it signifies a profound cultural shift towards greater inclusivity and parity.
For the first time, female artists outpaced their male peers, with women representing 41% of the Top 100 songs, compared to 39% for male artists and 20% for collaborations. This progress is a clear testament to the intentional efforts within the industry to promote gender equality. The dedication of UK radio stations, particularly those that have championed the cause, is commendable. BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 6 Music, Capital FM, KISS, Heat Radio, Channel 103 FM, and Island FM have all played a crucial role in paving the way for this momentous change.
You can check out the reports carried out by my team in Why Not Her? for a more refined look at the data here.
This year’s BRIT Awards further highlighted the strides made, with Raye making history by winning six awards, including Album of the Year and Artist of the Year. Her journey from overcoming industry obstacles to reclaiming her power is a testament to the transformative force of perseverance and talent. Similarly, at the VMAs this week, we witnessed unforgettable performances, particularly from Chappell Roan, whose Joan of Arc-like performance of “Good Luck Babe” was electrifying, and Sabrina Carpenter, who delivered a captivating medley of her hit singles. Megan Thee Stallion’s performance was equally exhilarating, showcasing tracks from her snake-themed album “Megan.” Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the VMAs honoured both iconic moments from its history and the fresh energy brought by new artists.
Well worth checking out Rayes Brits performance here:
Taylor Swift, ever the trailblazer, took home the top award of the night for the third consecutive year. Her win for Video of the Year with “Fortnight” featuring Post Malone marked a record-breaking fifth win in this category, highlighting the power of collaboration between male and female artists. Swift’s seven wins at the VMAs tied her with Beyoncé for the most VMA wins by any artist, each now holding 30. She also became the first artist to win the “Artist of the Year” award twice, having first claimed the title in 2023.
Sabrina Carpenter’s performance, which included a playful interaction with an alien on stage, was one of the night’s most talked-about moments. Her boldness and creativity in embracing the unconventional made a lasting impression, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic nature of female artistry. I found it all the more entertaining when Carpenter kissed an alien too, which couldn’t be more timely after Trump declared that his political rival Kamala Harris wants ‘transgender operations on illegal aliens’. I laughed so fucking hard.
For me, however, the highlight was Chappell Roan’s debut at the VMAs. Known for her outspoken stance against inappropriate behaviour from fans, she made headlines by confronting a disrespectful photographer on the carpet. Roan’s medieval-inspired look, complete with a centuries-old rug and faux armour, added to her commanding presence. Her performance of “Good Luck, Babe!” was nothing short of fiery, conjuring the likeness of Joan of Arc, and her heartfelt acceptance speech for Best New Artist, dedicated to drag artists and the LGBTQ+ community, solidified her as an icon in the making. What a feminist moment in pop culture.
Watch Sabrina Carpenters VMA performance here:
Watch Chappell Roans ‘Joan Of Arc’ like visual performance at the VMA’s here, I cannot think of anything more iconic!
My experience over the past two decades as a music publicist and gender activist has shown me that this moment is not merely about statistics; it’s about what those statistics represent. The airwaves, long dominated by male voices, are finally making room for the rich, diverse expressions of female artists. The changes we are witnessing are a victory not only for women but for society as a whole.
“We’ve been fighting for gender parity in the music industry for years,” I’ve often said, reflecting on the decades-long struggle. “To see women finally leading the airwaves is monumental. It proves that when you challenge the status quo and advocate for equal representation, change is not just possible — it’s inevitable.”
Artists like Dua Lipa, Becky Hill, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus have crafted a soundscape that resonates deeply with listeners across the UK. Their success is a testament to their talent and the growing recognition that women’s voices are not just welcome but essential. This shift is significant and long overdue. Female artists have historically been sidelined, their contributions undervalued, and their potential underestimated.
The rise of breakthrough artists like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter is further proof that we are living in an exciting time for music. These women are not merely making music — they are shaping culture, challenging norms, and inspiring future generations of female musicians. Their success signals that the industry is finally acknowledging the vast talent and experience that women bring to the table.
“When we hear a woman’s voice on the radio, it’s not just about the music — it’s about representation,” I’ve pointed out in various discussions. “It’s about ensuring the airwaves reflect the world we live in, a world where women’s experiences and stories are at the forefront.”
But let’s be clear: this victory did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of advocacy, persistence, and the unwavering belief that women’s voices deserve to be heard. As a gender activist, I have seen firsthand the discrimination, lack of representation, and systemic bias that women in music have faced. The progress we see today is the direct result of challenging these injustices head-on, of demanding equality in spaces where it was long denied.
We’ve come a long way, but the journey is far from over. This is just the beginning. We must ensure that gender parity in music is not a fleeting trend but a lasting change.
The fact that women have taken the lead in airplay is monumental, but it also highlights the work that still needs to be done. Gender parity in music must be maintained and expanded. We must continue to support female artists, ensuring they have the platforms, opportunities, and recognition they deserve. The music industry must not only reflect gender equality but also actively champion it.
As we celebrate the successes of women in music this year, let us also commit to pushing the boundaries further. Let’s continue to amplify women’s voices, not just on the radio but in every corner of the music industry. Let’s ensure that this year’s achievement is not an anomaly but the beginning of a new norm — where women’s contributions to music are not just acknowledged but celebrated, respected, and equitably rewarded.
The power of music lies in its ability to connect us, to reflect our lives back to us. When women’s voices are given the space they deserve, we all benefit. The music becomes richer, the stories more diverse, and the impact more profound.
In conclusion, 2024 is a landmark year for women in music. The dominance of female artists on UK radio playlists is a powerful reminder of the change that is possible when we challenge the status quo and advocate for equality. As we move forward, let’s continue to build on this progress, ensuring the music industry is a space where all voices are heard, valued, and celebrated. Because, as this year has shown, people do like to hear women on the radio — and it’s about time.
The rise of women in music this year is not just a trend — it’s a testament to the relentless hard work, resilience, and undeniable talent that female artists bring to the table. For years, women have had to fight against systemic biases and barriers that have kept their voices in the background. But now, we’re witnessing a seismic shift. This is the year where women have taken their rightful place at the top, proving that their artistry, creativity, and influence are second to none. It’s a moment of celebration but also a reminder of the importance of continuing to advocate for gender equality across all facets of the industry. The success of women this year sends a powerful message: when given the platform, women don’t just participate — they lead, innovate, and redefine the landscape of music.
