The Future Sounds Female: Women Leading The Next Era Of Music

The music industry is standing at a pivotal moment. Over the next decade, women will play an increasingly powerful role in shaping its future—whether as artists, producers, songwriters, or executives. With technology bridging gaps, stronger representation in leadership, and a more inclusive approach to talent development, the industry is tuning into the power of women in music like never before.

Breaking Barriers & Creating Equal Opportunities:

Despite progress, the challenges remain. Women in music still face disparities in representation, access, and leadership opportunities. Akhila Shankar, Head of TuneCore, India & South Asia, highlights the key need for a level playing field,"Ultimately, what women want and need is to have the same starting point as their peers. Technology is going to be a key driver in making the music industry a more levelled playing field for all genders in the coming decade."

Emerging tools and platforms are already making waves. Features driving social discovery on Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts are helping independent artists reach wider audiences. Programs like TuneCore Accelerator, which focus on DSP growth, are redefining music discovery, giving independent women artists the visibility they deserve. “It is important that we continue to refine these programs and build more scalable marketing solutions for artists so they can do what they do best—create art,” Akhila adds.

Women at the Forefront of Change:

Singer-songwriter duo Sukriti & Prakriti Kakar believe the next decade will be a transformative one:"The future of music is undeniably female. The next decade will see more women leading the charge—on stage, behind the scenes, and in boardrooms. With stronger representation, equal opportunities, and a shift in mindset, the industry is finally tuning into the power of women in music."

The rise of self-releasing artists, independent labels, and digital platforms has allowed female artists to break free from traditional constraints. Women are now writing, composing, producing, and distributing their music on their own terms. This shift is crucial in building a more diverse and inclusive industry.

More Representation in Studios, Festivals & Boardrooms:

While progress is evident, there’s still work to be done. Rumpa Banerjee, Head - Marketing, Communication & Member Relations at IPRS, emphasizes that women need more visibility across the entire music ecosystem,"The industry is evolving, but there’s still a long way to go, ensuring more women in studios, on stage, and in boardrooms. It starts with fair representation in festivals, writing rooms, and leadership roles. Initiatives like KOLAB HER MUSIC CAMP, led by IPRS, aim to bridge this gap by giving female songwriters, composers, and producers the visibility and creative space they need. The key is to create spaces where female artists and leaders aren’t just included but truly empowered to thrive."

She also predicts an exciting future where women will be more independent, more diverse, and more powerful than ever in music,"I see the future of women in music becoming more diverse and independent than ever. More women are taking charge—writing, composing, producing, and releasing music on their own terms. We’re going to see greater female representation across songwriting, production, and the business of music—areas where they were once underrepresented. At IPRS, the growing number of women members is proof that change is happening. The next decade is about breaking barriers, shaping the industry, and driving both creativity and revenue!"

A Future of Inclusion, Innovation & Impact:

As we look ahead, it’s clear that women are not just participating in the music industry; they are redefining it. By fostering inclusive initiatives, embracing technology, and advocating for fair opportunities, the next decade will see women leading the way—in creativity, business, and innovation.

The sound of the future? It’s bold, diverse, and undeniably female.