Today is International Women’s Day and guitarguitar is celebrating in a way that’s all about real motivation for women with a passion for music.
We’re recognising the inspirational and influential women in our industry by sharing their personal journeys and relatable experiences to build confidence and encourage women of all generations.
We caught up with some of the most prominent industry professionals who are forging ahead in the world of music and asked them one question:
"What advice would you give to female musicians trying to break through the music industry?"
This is what they said. Saddle up for a journey of inspiration!
Diamond Rose Rowe
Lead Guitarist of Tetrarch and the first woman to receive a signature model Jackson guitar
“For the girls that want to break into the music industry, I would say to take pride in being a woman in music but never let it define what you think you’re capable of. Focus on your passion and fall in love with your instrument and what you do. Work to be great because you love it, not because you’re trying to prove something. When your dedication and passion lead the way, being a strong and talented woman becomes your superpower. It becomes the air beneath your wings.”
Allison Hagendorf
Head of Rock at Spotify, TV host, podcast host, music journalist and host of Times Square New Year's Eve
“Lean into what only you can do, honor your vision even if you’re the only one who sees it, lead with confidence and kindness, because your reputation isn’t built on how impressive you are, it’s built on how people feel after they leave you, and always give yourself grace as you grow.”
Yvette Young
Covet lead guitarist and composer, defining a new generation of technique-based guitar music at the cutting edge of modern instrumental guitar
“The key to navigating your relationship with music actually lies within- The best way to get a head start is to really understand what you want out of music- is it a career? Is it just enjoyment? What are your values and what kind of artist do you want to be? What interests you? What do you want to say with your music and what sort of message do you want to send? Navigate and create with intention- It’s easy to get pulled in a million directions in this day and age of pressure and comparison. You can’t concern yourself with what other people think or want you to do and the stronger sense of self you have, the easier it will be to tune out the noise and figure out your own way to longevity and fulfillment and cultivate your own unique voice. You have important things within you that deserve to be explored and heard!”
April Kae
An NYC-based musician, model and activist who is well known as an innovative and gifted bass player and songwriter
"Master your craft, know your worth, and never shrink yourself to make a room more comfortable."
Molly Tuttle
Bluegrass supremo bringing incredible technique to acoustic-based playing that blends tradition with a modern sensibility
“I would say always trust your gut and stay true to yourself. Listen to your heart over what anyone else says you should do with your music and career. Work as hard as you can but don’t forget to enjoy the ride and surround yourself with people who lift you up!”
Blu DeTiger
Fender signature artist who is redefining the bass as a leading instrument; well-known for blending funk, pop, indie and disco-influenced music who performed her first ever gig at the iconic New York City CBGB venue at 7 years old
“Practice until you’re undeniable, then share your work relentlessly: play, post, collaborate, say yes to every opportunity. And if a space doesn’t make room for you, build your own! Your community will become your momentum.”
Fatoumata Diawara
Malian artist combining tradition with raw, self-taught power. Her sound weaves Wassoulou rhythms with global influences, echoing the blues roots of the past while pushing music forward
“I would say first: believe deeply in your voice. Not only your singing voice, but your story, your culture, your way of seeing the world. You don't have to change to fit in, the most powerful thing you can do is stay true to who you are.
Also, don’t be afraid to learn every part of the process, writing, producing, performing, understanding the business. The more you know, the more freedom you have as an artist.
And finally, support each other. When women lift each other up, we create space for many voices, not just one. There is room for all of us.”
Jennie Vee
Self-taught player and founder of western noir band Midnight Cowgirls who has played with Courtney Love & Lana Del Rey
“I come from a small town, and it all began with a dream and a bass guitar. That instrument has carried me around the world. Have a clear vision for the musician you want to become — then work toward it every day. Small, consistent steps add up. If you stay committed to your craft and your direction, you can build the career you’ve always imagined.”
Nili Brosh
Spectacularly gifted player touring with Danny Elfman, Cirque du Soleil and Dethklok, as well as touring her own albums
“Stay focused on the music and the rest will take care of itself. If you come across as a reliable person to work with, the right people will know not to stereotype based on gender.”
Photo credit: Christina Russo
Emily Roberts
Lead guitarist of The Last Dinner Party, her melodic and soaring lead playing takes inspiration from the likes of Brian May and her background in classical and jazz music takes her playstyle to a whole new level
“Discover the musicians who inspire you the most and let them guide you. Finding a teacher I clicked with was also super important for me. Don’t let any negative comments bring you down and enjoy the power you wield when you play!”
Ida Nielsen
Bass player, composer and vocalist blending funk with intricate techniques, becoming a global sensation during her touring years with Prince
“Put in the work and keep following your dreams. And don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do it!"
Photo credit: Peter Lodder
Paige Blake
Blues/rock guitarist and designer based in Los Angeles, influenced by the underground local music scene, her style bridges the gap between classic rock attitude and contemporary grit
“Never take advice from someone whose life you wouldn’t trade for — I do what they say I can’t, just in a cuter outfit.”
Karen Dió
Self-proclaimed feminist punk rocker with Latin American roots, her songwriting is energetic and her lyrics focus on the struggles of being a woman in the music industry.
“I could give thousands and thousands of pieces of advice, but my main one is "trust your gut and do it". You know exactly what is best for you and what you really want. You don't need approval or acknowledgement from anyone to start your project. Not even the people you look up to, family, friends or "music heroes". You're worthy, you're capable! Your music needs to be heard, just go ahead and do it!”
Photo credit: Fernando Yokota
Sophie Burrell
Guitarist, songwriter and content creator known for viral guitar clips who teaches guitar lessons online
“Never apologise for taking up space. The more you lean into who you actually are, the more magnetic you become. Stop overthinking it and just build your thing.”
Taylor Acorn
Singer songwriter hailing from the USA, known for energetic, emotional songs that blend punk, emo and pop with modern alternative rock
“I think my biggest piece of advice to other women trying to break into the music industry would be to stay genuine and true to yourself and your art. Don’t let the fear of being told no or the fear of judgement get you down or push you away from your goals and your dreams. You just have to work hard and believe in YOU first and foremost.”
Photo credit: Dillon Jordan
Emily Wolfe
Singer-songwriter-guitarist who has designed two signature guitars with Epiphone
“From what I've learned, the industry doesn't hand out power. You build it by developing your skill, understanding the business, trusting your instincts, and taking smart risks. Fame can come and go, but building something authentically you creates longevity.”
Cindë
Session guitarist and songwriter hailing from Toronto, Canada who recently toured with Goldie Boutilier and supported Katy Perry
“Go back to the source. Why music? Why did you start playing your instrument? What about it gives you joy and makes you work harder? Those reasons don’t typically change. They help you evolve into your purpose and dig deeper into who you already are.”
Lexi Rose
Self taught guitarist hailing from New York, known for her rapid rise on social media
“Don’t wait for permission. Build your own platform, share your voice, and the opportunities will follow.”
Jenn Butterworth
One of the most in-demand folk musicians in Scotland, she lives and breathes trad guitar and is inseparable from her Martin D-41
"In my early career I felt lesser than my male peers, and it took me a long time to break down those societal assumptions and confidently own my own space. You are your own artist; always know your worth and value your skill."
Photo credit: Matthew Arthur Williams
Lucy Ellen
Session bassist, Ibanez artist and front runner of Lucy Ellen and The Leopards hailing from Liverpool, UK
“In what can be a male dominated industry, don’t be afraid to lean into your femininity. Always be the most empowered and honest version of yourself and you will flourish!”
A.A. Williams
Classically trained musician and multi-talented guitar, piano and cello player who writes and performs dark and deeply atmospheric songs
"Do not compromise your artistic vision. Have a clear idea of what you want for your project, sonically and aesthetically, and make sure that everything you do adheres to it. Even in a small club with a tiny budget make sure you’re presenting your project how YOU want it to be, not how someone else tells you it’d be easier. Have faith in what you’ve created, and give it the respect it deserves by always striving to deliver the best possible version of your project, be that on stage, on record or online."
Kitty
Vocalist, guitarist and co-founder of Saint Agnes
“Protect your creative vision fiercely, it is your most valuable asset because it’s uniquely yours. Don’t let other people dilute it. And build your skills, the more you can do yourself or understand how something works, the better you can protect your art. (That includes learning about the business side of things early on.)"
Vanessa Govinden
Bassist for Whitelands, a shoegaze band hailing from the UK
"Don’t wait for permission. Start the band, write the song, play that show. You don’t need to be the most technical player in the room to belong there. Find your people and trust your instincts. Find the ones who celebrate you, not compete with you. Community will carry you through the moments when confidence dips. And most importantly your voice doesn’t have to sound like anyone else’s. The industry doesn’t need more copies. It needs you!"
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the voices of these trail-blazing women remind us that music is a force for change, empowerment and resilience. These words and stories are what continues to inspire generations.
Keep creating, innovating, breaking boundaries and show 'em what you're made of!
