Shania Twain Calls for Greater Diversity in Country Music at CMT Awards
Country music icon Shania Twain used her acceptance speech at Sunday's CMT Awards to advocate for equal play and diversity within the genre. The legendary artist, who received the Equal Play Award, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in country music, saying she believes it should be "an all-inclusive" industry that welcomes artists from diverse backgrounds.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", which has become an empowering anthem for women worldwide. She acknowledged the phrase's impact on her own career and how it has inspired countless communities to find their power. However, she noted that despite its global appeal, the industry standard does not always reflect this diversity.
During her speech, Twain highlighted her commitment to showcasing diverse acts on her upcoming "Queen of Me" tour. She mentioned several rising country stars, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, and Mickey Guyton, among others, who will be featured alongside her performances.
Twain emphasized the need for greater representation in the industry, stating that she wants to do her part as a trailblazer to ensure fellow artists receive equal play regardless of their background. She also used the platform to connect with The BoykinZ, an African American singing group who recently met Kelly Clarkson's surprise guest, Shania Twain.
By speaking out on this issue, Twain aims to inspire change and create a more inclusive country music industry that celebrates the rich diversity of its artists and fans worldwide.
Country music icon Shania Twain used her acceptance speech at Sunday's CMT Awards to advocate for equal play and diversity within the genre. The legendary artist, who received the Equal Play Award, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in country music, saying she believes it should be "an all-inclusive" industry that welcomes artists from diverse backgrounds.
Twain referenced one of her biggest hits, "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", which has become an empowering anthem for women worldwide. She acknowledged the phrase's impact on her own career and how it has inspired countless communities to find their power. However, she noted that despite its global appeal, the industry standard does not always reflect this diversity.
During her speech, Twain highlighted her commitment to showcasing diverse acts on her upcoming "Queen of Me" tour. She mentioned several rising country stars, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, and Mickey Guyton, among others, who will be featured alongside her performances.
Twain emphasized the need for greater representation in the industry, stating that she wants to do her part as a trailblazer to ensure fellow artists receive equal play regardless of their background. She also used the platform to connect with The BoykinZ, an African American singing group who recently met Kelly Clarkson's surprise guest, Shania Twain.
By speaking out on this issue, Twain aims to inspire change and create a more inclusive country music industry that celebrates the rich diversity of its artists and fans worldwide.
I mean, it's about time someone like Shania Twain finally spoke up about this stuff... she's got the platform, right? But let's be real, how much of an actual change is going to happen when they just throw a few token acts on her tour? It's all just a PR stunt at the end of the day. And what's with the "all-inclusive" industry? That's just code for "we're going to make sure that everyone who fits into our narrow definition of 'diversity' gets a turn in the spotlight". I mean, where are all the artists from outside those privileged few groups that Shania's talking about?
she's not just saying we need more diversity in country music, she's taking action with her "queen of me" tour featuring talented artists from all over 
like lily rose & mickey guyton! it's about time the industry recognizes that country music is for everyone, regardless of background or identity. shania's message of empowerment and inclusivity is so needed right now 
Shania Twain is absolutely right, it's not just about the music itself, but also who gets to represent the genre. The fact that there are still so few artists from diverse backgrounds getting played on the radio and performing at awards shows is just not fair.
i love how she mentioned those rising stars like lily rose & mickey guyton - they're killin it! 
. It's about time we see more diversity in the genre, it's been lacking for far too long! 
Those rising stars she mentioned are all so talented and deserve more recognition 
.
she's like totally on point with her speech about country music being more diverse it's crazy how one artist can make such a big impact 
what do u think? should shania twain's tour feature even more artists from underrepresented groups 
. Like, what's next? Are they gonna start giving out awards for "Best Platform" too? 
Can't we just get back to talking about the music instead of who's supposed to be promoting it?
. We need more people like her who are willing to use their platform to create a more inclusive space for everyone 
we need more people like shania who are willing to use their platform to amplify the voices of others, especially the women and POC artists who have been marginalized for far too long 