How Women Made MusicFeatured in New Industry Friday Vol 3. 4.6 out of 5
4.6 out of 5
Hot take
How Women Made Music is a vibrant and essential anthology that gives overdue recognition to the pivotal role women have played in shaping music history. Drawing from NPR Music’s acclaimed ‘Turning the Tables’ series, this book compiles interviews, essays, and archival content spotlighting a diverse range of female artists from pioneers like Bessie Smith and Joan Baez to contemporary icons like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. The structure is engaging, blending profiles, personal reflections, and capsule reviews to bring these stories to life. While the sheer scale means it's impossible to cover every important figure, most readers will discover new artists and fresh perspectives. Some may find the fragmented format less cohesive than a traditional narrative, but the energy and inclusivity make this a must-read for music fans, creatives, and anyone interested in feminist cultural history.
How was this take was created?
Pros
Celebrates and documents women's impact across genres and generations
Draws from decades of trusted NPR interviews and essays
Highlights both well-known and overlooked artists
Accessible, lively writing and diverse content
Provides inspiration and insight for creatives and music lovers
Cons
Not all influential artists can be covered—inevitable omissions
Fragmented format may not suit those seeking a linear narrative
Focuses largely on NPR’s past coverage, which may limit perspective diversity
Key Features
Archival interviews and essays
Photographs and illustrations
Capsule reviews of albums and songs
Profiles of artists from multiple eras and genres
Highlights from NPR’s Turning the Tables project
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