As I get ready to release my first self-produced single, "Chocolate and Tangerines," I reflect on the journey it took to get here. This journey into production has been both empowering and eye-opening, and I want to take a moment to share why this means so much to me and, hopefully, to many other women in the music industry.
The Spark Behind the Song
In November 2024, I had the privilege of attending WAMCON (Women's Audio Mission) in Los Angeles. There, I was confronted with a staggering statistic: only 2% of music producers are women. This number resonated deeply with me, reflecting not just an industry-wide issue but personal experiences I've faced throughout my career.
Like many female artists, I've often found myself in studios where professionalism was overshadowed by unwanted advances. There were instances where male producers withheld my tracks when I didn't reciprocate their flirtations. These experiences, unfortunately, aren't isolated. A study by the Musicians' Union revealed that over half of women in music have faced gender discrimination, highlighting the pervasive challenges we encounter
Taking Control: My Production Journey
These challenges ignited a determination to take control of my narrative and artistry. I embarked on a journey to learn music production, transforming necessity into empowerment. The process has been incredibly rewarding, filled with learning curves and moments of creative liberation. Enrolling in production classes, I was inspired to see many other women alongside me, all eager to carve out our space in this field.
"Chocolate and Tangerines": A Milestone
"Chocolate and Tangerines" isn't just a song; it's a testament to the power of autonomy and self-expression. By producing this track myself, I maintained complete creative control, free from concerns about contracts or song splits. This autonomy is crucial for authentic artistry and is a freedom I wish for all female musicians.
Creating Safe, Female-Friendly Spaces
Being in environments surrounded by fellow women has been transformative. It fosters a comfort level that encourages genuine expression, free from the pressures and biases often present in male-dominated spaces. The importance of these safe, supportive environments cannot be overstated, as they allow us to tell our stories authentically and without compromise.
Looking Ahead: Empowerment Through Community
The underrepresentation of women in music production stems from systemic biases and limited opportunities. But by fostering supportive communities and sharing our experiences, we can drive real change.
In Toronto, SoundGirls is a fantastic community for women in music production. Inspired by my own journey, I created the "Where My Ladies At?" Songwriting Workshop—a safe, inclusive space where women can collaborate, share their work, and build community.
I hope my story encourages more women to explore production, take ownership of their art, and shape a more inclusive industry.
Thank you for being part of this journey! Let’s uplift each other and make space for every voice to be heard. Be sure to join my network for updates on upcoming workshops.
With love and gratitude,
Sorbé