Music
Alicia Keys’ She Is The Music Is The Nonprofit Helping Women Enter The ‘Boys Club’ Of Music
The artist’s nonprofit is working to increase diversity and inclusion efforts in the music industry so that women can get hired. …
In January 2019, the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative concluded that two years earlier, the music industry saw a six-year low for female creatives. The contributions of women remain underrepresented in virtually every corner of the field — from singers and songwriters to A&R professionals and marketing mavens. Because of these findings, She Is The Music is a necessary network for women in music to facilitate meaningful change in order to diminish the “boys club” industry mentality, which is why we wanted to showcase them in this debut episode of our new The Show Up series.
Founded by Alicia Keys in 2018, She Is The Music is a non-profit organization aiming to amplify underrepresented individuals in the music industry through networking, resources, and impactful initiatives. In the above video, Michelle Arkuski, executive director of the organization, says that the “overarching” goal of the organization is to “[harness] inclusivity, opportunity and visibility to increase the number of women working in music.”
She Is The Music fosters connections between its members and music industry giants in order to provide support and advice. Like-minded individuals can link up through the organization’s global online database of 7,000 she/her-identifying music industry members. She Is The Music also features programs unifying its members, like their all-female songwriting camp, their partnership with Step Up empowering female high school students, and their newly-implemented virtual mentorship program, Connect TogetHER, whose members launched their own music team after the program ended to help an alumna release her debut album.
Through instilling confidence in established and prospective industry personnel, She Is The Music provides a look into how limitless the field could be for women. “When people put gender into a title, it knocks you down a few steps,” She Is The Music’s songwriting committee co-chair and L.A. chapter head Hannah Babitt notes. “We need all genders involved to push a change and shift the numbers.”
Check out the video above to learn more about the group.
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Heliara unveils a symphony of courage in vulnerability with her new single “Cloak of Fear”
Heliara sings with a commanding and compassionate tone in her new single, “Cloak of Fear.” This stirring pop-rock anthem dives headfirst into the shadows of their anxieties and low self-esteem while extending a hand toward hope and promoting self-discovery. The Ottawa-based singer-songwriter draws upon her extensive musical odyssey to craft this unapologetically candid yet emotive track, effectively merging vulnerability with a powerful message of hope. The song’s lyrics invite a journey of emotional release, encouraging them to trade their “cloak of fear” for something brighter.
Musically, “Cloak of Fear” exemplifies a masterclass, in contrast, with the piano and bold guitar working together to create a fascinating interplay of light and shadow. The juxtaposition of its darker lyrical themes with an uplifting melody is striking, creating a unique sonic landscape that mirrors the journey from struggle to resilience. Heliara’s voice soars as the song builds, conveying strength and tenderness, a reminder that authenticity has power even in our most vulnerable moments.
What sets this track apart is its sincerity. Each word feels like it’s been pulled from the pages of her diary, making “Cloak of Fear” an intimate portrayal of struggle and affirmation of transformation. It’s a celebration of the process of overcoming adversity. Heliara’s willingness to embrace the power and vulnerability within herself inspires others to do the same, pushing audiences to banish negativity, discard their insecurities, and step into their most authentic selves. “Cloak of Fear” emerges as an empowering melodic narrative imbued with an indomitable sense of optimism; it’s a reminder that regardless of the obstacles encountered, we possess the inherent strength to rise.
“Cloak of Fear” by Heliara demonstrates that vulnerability can be a source of superpowers. This track is a must-listen for anyone seeking to embrace their courage and rewrite their story.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Heliara’s “Cloak of Fear“ on Spotify.
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“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley evokes a soulful odyssey of timeless classic dreams and optimism
Breathing new life into its familiar melody, Claire Littley’s reimagining of “Wishing on a Star” transcends its origins, transforming a timeless classic into an intimate, deeply personal narrative. Written initially by Billie Rae Calvin and recording popularized by Rose Royce, this song has always been a beacon of hope and dreams. However, Littley’s version delves into uncharted emotional territory, offering a vulnerable and soulful spin that feels like a heartfelt whisper to the universe.
Claire’s vocal performance stands out the most when she starts singing. Her delivery has a distinct emotive softness, a deliberate fragility that underscores the yearning at the song’s heart. Every word feels imbued with intention as if she’s not just singing about wishes but living them, shaping an atmosphere of intimacy that draws you in and holds you close.
Her production choices are equally thoughtful. Stripping the track to its emotional core, Littley creates a chilled, soulful arrangement that complements her vocals without overshadowing them. Delicate layers of instrumentation glide effortlessly, balancing nostalgia with innovation.
This version is unique because Claire connects with the song’s personal yet universal themes of hope, longing, and love in a way that resonates with generations. Her interpretation taps into these emotions, making it feel as relevant today as it did when the song was first released. It reminds listeners that the idea of “Wishing on a Star” is a metaphor we all share, a quiet act of defiance against life’s challenges.
“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley is more than a cover single; it’s a reinvention that will linger in the minds of listeners long after the final note fades, inviting everyone on a soul-stirring journey to dream and hope a little bigger. It’s proof that even the most familiar stars can shine in new and beautiful ways.
For more information about Claire Littley, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Claire Littley’s “Wishing on a Star“ on Spotify.
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