HOW Transwomen ARE RESHAPING THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
BY DANY MIRELES (SHE/HER)As well as celebrating women’s month, we also celebrate International Transgender Day Visibility on March 31st. It celebrates the lives of and contributions of trans people, but also raises awareness of the discrimination they face everyday. Transwomen have become powerful forces in the music industry, bringing their creativity, uniqueness and powerful sounds to the music world. From singers to songwriters, to producers to engineers, they are making sure they leave their rightful legacy as masterminds of sounds, lyrics and beats that are reshaping music everyday. Every day they are proving that they are ready to make their voices be heard and their talents be showcased.
Transwomen are captivating audiences from all over the world with their voices to tell stories about love, empowerment and many other themes. An artist that has been rising to fame over the last few months is Ethel Cain, whose haunting lyrics in her album “Preacher’s Daughter” have caught the attention of millions of people as she tells a story about loss throughout this record. What people love most about her is her authenticity and vulnerability in her poetic lyrics. As a transwoman herself, she often uses her platform to speak up about issues that the transgender community faces and promotes inclusion. She has been able to connect with her audience on a deeply emotional level.
Another vocalist that has been rising to fame is Villano Antillano, a trap singer from Dominican Republic whose music has led her to become a Latin American trap icon, she has captivated millions of followers throughout Latin America with her unique blend of reggaeton and urban music alongside bold lyrics, she inspires people to embrace their true selves, making her a powerful voice for diversity.
Songwriters and producers are vital for the creation and development of the music we listen to, they bring artist’s ideas to life with their understanding of musical theory, production techniques and musical ability to create ideas into fully realised musical works. They constantly shape the music industry with the introduction of new music genres, storytelling and their innovative music approaches.
SOPHIE was a Grammy nominated producer, songwriter and DJ that left a mark in the music industry and reshaped electronic and hyperpop music into what we know of it today. By combining electronic music with avant pop that created a unique sound, SOPHIE gained critical acclaim and inspired artists to push their creativity boundaries. SOPHIE’s impact in the music industry continues to be felt, as many artists honour and pay tribute to the late producer. SOPHIE has become a role model for LGBTQ+ youth from all over the world and will be always remembered as a music mastermind.
Although Kim Petras’ grammy win for her song “Unholy '' was a historic moment for the community, she is not the first transwoman to ever win a Grammy award. In 1970, Wendy Carlos won three Grammy awards for her album “Switched On Bach” making her the first transwoman in history to win this prestigious award. She is one of the most important composers of the 20th century, known for her sound design and alternative tunings, she has composed soundtracks for some of the most iconic films in cinema like The Shining and A Clockwork Orange.
Forming one half of the experimental pop duo Gecs 100 is producer and singer Laura Les, she has gained following for her genre defying sound, making blends of hip-hop , electronic and pop that creates a sonic sound that is hard to define. She has been open about embracing her identity, writing personal lyrics about it. Her identity plays a crucial part of the band’s choice of distorted vocals, she very often explains how using pitch correction and autotune help with her dysmorphia produced by her unaltered singing voice.
A songwriter that helped write some of the most famous songs of the last decade is Teddy Geigner, often known for her catchy melodies. She has written songs for One Direction, Shawn Mendes and many other artists across genres, showcasing her versatility as a songwriter and her ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences across genres and demographics. Teddy is considered to be one of the most talented songwriters of our generation.
Shea Diamond has become an icon for the trans community. Her song “I Am Her” stands as a trans anthem, as it talks about embracing one’s identity. Shea Diamond uses this song to celebrate resilience and authenticity, and helps listeners to embrace who they really are, without a fear of being judged. She often says how her music speaks about oppression, and how we should centre ourselves in self-care.
As we reflect on the contributions of transwomen in the industry, it has become clear that their music’s impact is far beyond notes and lyrics, it also resonates with the hearts of audiences worldwide. As we celebrate their achievements and impact, we must also recognize the challenges that they face from discrimination and lack of opportunities. By promoting diversity, we can work towards a future that creates a more inclusive environment where all artists are celebrated and supported for their music.
From Ethel Cain’s rawness and emotional lyrics to SOPHIE’s impactful change on behind the scenes, they offer fresh artistic perceptions, with music that has never been heard of before. Their music becomes messages of self expression and self love, offering unique experiences to listeners. The voices of these artists are powerful, their stories are inspiring, and their captivating and confident stage presences are what have drawn millions of people to them.
We have been witnessing everyday the big impact that trans women have in the music industry, they have enriched and changed the sound of music as well as inviting listeners to embrace their vulnerability and offer a glimpse into their journey, offering a sense of empathy and love to those navigating journeys of self discovery and love similar to theirs. Not only are they entertaining, but they are educating and inspiring future generations of people to embrace their passions. We have to honour the voices of trans women, and make sure they are heard, making sure their contributions and legacies in the music industries are celebrated, and applauding them for the more inclusive and diverse industry they are paving the way for.