Country Music's Long-Overdue Overhaul: Shania Twain Calls for Equal Play and Diversity
In a powerful speech at the CMT Awards, country music icon Shania Twain used her platform to advocate for much-needed change in the genre she loves. The legendary singer, who was honored with the prestigious Equal Play Award, called out the industry's glaring lack of diversity and called for more equity and representation.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", which has become an anthem for female empowerment. When asked about its impact, Twain said, "It's amazing how one statement can empower so many." The phrase has taken on a life of its own, inspiring countless communities around the world and becoming a rallying cry for women everywhere.
Twain believes that country music should be inclusive, not exclusive. "I believe in an all-inclusive country music. We're family," she said. However, she noted that the current industry standard does a disservice to this vision. Twain's own career was shaped by the rich history of country music, but she acknowledges that others have been left behind.
In recognition of this, Twain has announced plans for her "Queen of Me" tour, which will feature an array of diverse artists including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By spotlighting these talented acts, Twain is helping to bring more voices into the mainstream.
Twain's commitment to trailblazing extends beyond her music. She continues to use her platform to advocate for greater equality in country music. "I will continue to do my best as a trailblazer," she said. "Together, let's ensure all our fellow artists get equal play regardless of gender, age or race."
Twain's dedication to this cause is evident in everything from her music to her performances. Her impromptu collaboration with the African American singing group, The BoykinZ, was a highlight of the evening. Twain connected with the rising stars after Kelly Clarkson surprised them by bringing her out to meet them on Clarkson's daytime talk show.
As country music moves forward, it's clear that Twain will be a driving force for change. Her commitment to inclusion and equality is inspiring, and her dedication to lifting up underrepresented voices will have a lasting impact on the genre she loves.
In a powerful speech at the CMT Awards, country music icon Shania Twain used her platform to advocate for much-needed change in the genre she loves. The legendary singer, who was honored with the prestigious Equal Play Award, called out the industry's glaring lack of diversity and called for more equity and representation.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", which has become an anthem for female empowerment. When asked about its impact, Twain said, "It's amazing how one statement can empower so many." The phrase has taken on a life of its own, inspiring countless communities around the world and becoming a rallying cry for women everywhere.
Twain believes that country music should be inclusive, not exclusive. "I believe in an all-inclusive country music. We're family," she said. However, she noted that the current industry standard does a disservice to this vision. Twain's own career was shaped by the rich history of country music, but she acknowledges that others have been left behind.
In recognition of this, Twain has announced plans for her "Queen of Me" tour, which will feature an array of diverse artists including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton, and others. By spotlighting these talented acts, Twain is helping to bring more voices into the mainstream.
Twain's commitment to trailblazing extends beyond her music. She continues to use her platform to advocate for greater equality in country music. "I will continue to do my best as a trailblazer," she said. "Together, let's ensure all our fellow artists get equal play regardless of gender, age or race."
Twain's dedication to this cause is evident in everything from her music to her performances. Her impromptu collaboration with the African American singing group, The BoykinZ, was a highlight of the evening. Twain connected with the rising stars after Kelly Clarkson surprised them by bringing her out to meet them on Clarkson's daytime talk show.
As country music moves forward, it's clear that Twain will be a driving force for change. Her commitment to inclusion and equality is inspiring, and her dedication to lifting up underrepresented voices will have a lasting impact on the genre she loves.
! country music has been super extra and exclusive for ages, and it's about time someone called them out on it. like who says you can't be a strong female artist in country? I've always loved Shania's music, but now I see her in a whole new light 
. I'm low-key hyped for her "Queen of Me" tour 
and the fact that she's bringing more diverse artists onto the stage is gonna be so refreshing! I can already imagine the vibe being super inclusive and empowering 
. Twain's speech was everything, btw 
.
!! i mean shania twain is like a legend but even legends need to step up their game 
. it's crazy how some people are still making music and not getting the same attention as others just because of who they are or where they come from. like, we get it, diversity matters 
. and kelly Clarkson bringing out the boykinz on her show was pure magic 
. this industry needs a major overhaul and shania twain is leading the charge 
. let's see more changes and less excuses 
.
! Shania Twain killed it with her speech, calling out the industry's lack of diversity and demanding more equity for artists. I'm so down for an all-inclusive country music scene 
. It's about time someone used their platform to bring about change. I love how Twain is using her "Queen of Me" tour to shine a light on talented diverse artists like Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, and Hailey Whitters. We need more representation in country music 
I'm also loving the lineup for her "Queen of Me" tour - those talented artists are gonna bring so much energy to the stage 
And can we talk about how inspiring it is to see a legend like Shania Twain continue to use her influence to make a positive impact? She's the real MVP 
. It's a great way to showcase what country music can be when it's inclusive and representative. And let's be real, who doesn't want to see more people from different backgrounds up on that stage? 
. Bring on the change!
i mean shania twain is like the ultimate queen of country music and she's calling out all the haters for not being inclusive enough 
. it's about time someone took a stand for diversity and representation in country music, and twain is leading the charge 
. we need more people like shania twain who aren't afraid to speak truth to power and use their platform for good 
they're still gonna be raking it in off the same old country clubs, ain't nobody touchin' their pockets. and what's with all these 'diversity' claims? just a bunch of PR spin to get them Grammy votes. twain might be a nice person, but she don't know the game like we do 
Shania Twain's call for equal play and diversity in country music hits home because it reminds us that our stories are worth telling, no matter how different they may be 
The idea that we're family, yet somehow left some behind, is a heavy burden to carry... but what if being left behind isn't about the exclusion, but about being overlooked? 
Twain's tour featuring artists like Lily Rose and Mickey Guyton is a breath of fresh air because it says we see you, we hear you, and your voice matters 