In a world where indie music thrives on authenticity and fresh perspectives, it’s shocking how one aspect of the industry remains frustratingly predictable: the lack of women in music production.
From the mixing console to the mastering studio, the indie scene needs a feminist frequency shift. Let’s break down why the future of indie music deserves a more balanced soundtrack—and why more women behind the boards could amplify the genre like never before.
1. Women Bring Fresh Creativity to Indie Music
Indie music thrives on innovation, and women bring a fresh perspective to production. A diverse mix of producers ensures a variety of sounds, styles, and approaches. In the same way, women have redefined indie songwriting and performing, and they can reshape production with their unique sensibilities.
2. Closing the Gender Gap Inspires Future Generations
The indie music industry is a breeding ground for up-and-coming talent, but young women aspiring to enter production often struggle to find role models. The more we normalize women in these roles, the easier it becomes for the next generation to dream big. Role models like Sylvia Massy and Emily Lazar are proving that women can master the art of mixing, mastering, and producing with finesse.
3. Women Producers Challenge the Status Quo
Let’s face it: the music industry—indie or not—needs to evolve. Women producers challenge outdated norms and push back against a system that’s too often a boys’ club. By including more women in production, indie music can better reflect the diverse audiences it serves.
4. Representation Leads to Better Storytelling
Indie music is all about storytelling, and women producers bring their own unique experiences to the studio. From crafting lyrics to shaping melodies, having women in production roles enhances the depth and authenticity of the stories being told. A balanced team ensures stories resonate across a wider spectrum of listeners.
5. Breaking Myths Around Tech and Music Production
One outdated stereotype that still lingers is that women aren’t “technical” enough for production. That’s as tired as a dusty vinyl record. The rise of female producers in indie music proves that anyone, regardless of gender, can master the tech-heavy side of music production. Women like Grimes and St. Vincent have shown they can be just as experimental and tech-savvy as their male counterparts.
What’s Next?
The indie music industry is at a crossroads, and the path forward is clear: we need more women in music production to truly elevate the scene. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, inclusive hiring practices, or simply giving women the credit they deserve, it’s time to break the sound barrier.
So, let’s turn up the volume on this conversation. The next time you’re grooving to your favorite indie track, think about the story behind the sound—and who’s shaping it. Let’s ensure the future of indie music production is as diverse, authentic, and groundbreaking as the genre itself.
Amplifying Women in Indie Music Production
Looking for new music to add to your playlist? Consider adding these produced by some incredibly powerful women in music:
"MASSEDUCTION" by St. Vincent (Co-produced)
Anything touched by Sylvia Massy or Emily Lazar
"Fetch the Bolt Cutters" by Fiona Apple (Self-produced)
"Punisher" by Phoebe Bridgers (Co-produced with women engineers)
"The Reminder" by Feist (Co-produced)
"Let It Die" by Feist (Co-produced)
"Producer's Room" by TOKiMONSTA (Self-produced)
Let’s empower the women who are mixing the future of music—one track at a time.