Celebrating Women's History Month through Women of Song
Mar 04, 2025March is Women’s History Month: an opportunity to celebrate the voices, stories, and contributions of women throughout history. One powerful way to engage with this celebration is through music—specifically by exploring the work of women songwriters. Whether you’re a music educator, a student, or a songwriter, here are some ideas for learning about and celebrating the women who have shaped the music industry today.
1. Curate a Listening List by Decade
Take a historical journey through the decades by selecting songs written by women from different eras. Start with early pioneers like Bessie Smith and Dorothy Fields, then move to mid-century icons like Carole King and Dolly Parton, and explore contemporary artists like Taylor Swift, H.E.R., and Brandi Carlile. This approach allows you to hear how songwriting styles, lyrical themes, and industry opportunities have evolved over time.
2. Research Pioneering Women in Songwriting
Some of the most influential women in music history were not only performers but also prolific songwriters. Research figures like:
- Clara Schumann – 19th-century composer and pianist, one of the earliest recognized female composers.
- Joni Mitchell – A defining voice in folk and rock with deeply personal and poetic songwriting.
- Cynthia Weil – Co-writer of many iconic hits of the 1960s and beyond, including "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'."
- Missy Elliott – A groundbreaking rapper, producer, and songwriter who revolutionized hip-hop and R&B.
3. Dive Into Women’s Stories Behind the Hits
Many hit songs were written by women, even if they weren’t the performing artists. Look into the contributions of songwriters such as:
- Diane Warren, who has penned countless pop ballads like "Because You Loved Me" (Céline Dion).
- Linda Perry, the writer behind hits like "Beautiful" (Christina Aguilera).
- Brill Building songwriters like Ellie Greenwich, who helped shape the sound of 1960s pop music.
4. Explore Underrepresented Voices
Women songwriters from diverse backgrounds have shaped music in every genre. Seek out Indigenous, Black, Latina, Asian, and LGBTQ+ women who have written and performed groundbreaking music. Artists like Buffy Sainte-Marie, Alice Coltrane, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and Sylvia Robinson have made significant contributions but are often overlooked in mainstream discussions.
5. Watch Documentaries and Read Biographies
Deepen your understanding by watching documentaries or reading books about women in songwriting. Some great resources include:
- 20 Feet from Stardom (documentary highlighting the careers of female backup singers and songwriters)
- Girls Like Us by Sheila Weller (a book about Carole King, Joni Mitchell, and Carly Simon)
- Songteller: My Life in Lyrics by Dolly Parton (a book sharing the stories behind her songs)
6. Create and Share Playlists
Use streaming services to build and share playlists featuring women songwriters. You can organize them by theme—protest songs, love songs, storytelling songs—or by time periods and genres. Sharing your playlist on social media can encourage others to join in the celebration.
7. Encourage Student or Personal Research Projects
If you’re an educator or student, consider a research project where students select a woman songwriter, analyze her lyrics, and present on her influence. This can be a great way to engage with both music history and lyrical analysis.
8. Support Women Songwriters Today
Women continue to shape the music industry today. Seek out independent female songwriters, attend their concerts, and purchase their music. Follow platforms that promote women in songwriting, such as Women in Music or the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Final Thoughts
Women’s History Month is a perfect time to dive into the rich legacy of women songwriters, but these explorations shouldn’t be limited to just one month. By intentionally incorporating women’s contributions into our regular music listening and study, we help ensure their voices remain an integral part of music history.
