In recognition of Women’s History Month, Atwood Magazine has called upon artists to contribute essays that delve into themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
•• •• •• ••
Today, Billboard-recognized queer music executive Jessica Vaughn (also known as LACES), who serves as President of Head Bitch Music, presents her essay titled “MASA: Make America Shameful Again – Why the Music Industry Needs Its Own Reckoning” for Atwood Magazine’s Women’s History Month initiative!
Vaughn states, “After years of facing misogyny in the industry and a flawed system that silences women, I refuse to keep quiet – I’m breaking down the walls of injustice, reclaiming my strength, and creating music that calls for change.”
As a significant voice in the music scene, Jessica Vaughn has cultivated a career that exists at the crossroads of artistry and advocacy. Her music has made appearances in shows like Lucifer, Grey’s Anatomy, and on major networks such as The CW, Netflix, and ABC, highlighting her talent for crafting resonant narratives. Her latest release as LACES, “Open for Business,” is available now.
•• ••
Why the Music Industry Needs Its Own Reckoning
by Jessica Vaughn
I’m going to be straightforward here…
It doesn’t feel safe to be a woman in this country, especially a woman who vocalizes her opinions in the music industry, which is why I intend to raise my voice.
In the past, I was disappointed and angry, yet I always tried to express my frustration diplomatically to avoid being labeled a “bitter woman.” Sadly, society doesn’t grant women the privilege of expressing their rightful anger and feelings of betrayal.
Previously, when men shouted at me in meetings for advocating for creatives, myself, or simply pointing out limitations, I had to stay composed, soft-spoken, and professional while my male colleagues’ assertiveness was seen as a strength.
The music industry urgently requires a reckoning, but given the current political landscape, inappropriate behavior and abuse are taking center stage. I call for a Make America Shameful Again (MASA), but in the meantime, I will bring it to light whenever possible.
When I first decided to pursue a career in the music industry as a professional backstager (I coined the term) with a bit of artistry, I genuinely believed I could enact systemic change – that’s why I chose to engage in the industry (on my own terms). Post-Trump’s second term (he is a convicted felon who has been found liable for sexual abuse), my outlook has shifted. Even six years in the music industry have opened my eyes.
Now, I believe being bold, truthful, and refusing to compromise your authenticity, happiness, or art outweighs playing the game. Why follow the rules when the system is rigged? The glass ceiling feels like a brick wall, and I’m ready to break through it!
I won’t sugarcoat my experience: being a woman in music has been far from ideal.
I’ve heard phrases like “No one believes you,” “You’re crazy,” “You’re being shady,” “You didn’t earn this,” “You don’t want this enough,” “We don’t see you as a pop star,” “You’re too girly,” “Chill with the guys,” “You were being flirty, so I’m not sure that happened,” “You must be schizophrenic because of your family,” “You work for me,” “You won’t tell anyone, right?,” “You’re not being a team player,” and derogatory terms like “Cunt,” “Slut,” “Bitch,” and “You’re not even attractive.” As a teenager, adult men would even bet on whether I would be deemed “hot” as I aged.
It’s not a pleasant experience, but I never gave up. Why? Because I refuse to let broken, unhealed, sad, and unrealized individuals deprive me of my purpose – I’m here to create music and make a difference. If my presence disturbs them, then I must be doing something remarkable. Yes, I won’t downplay that achievement. Is anyone feeling uncomfortable? Good! That’s where growth occurs.
I started working on my upcoming concept album “Work” to explore various themes through the lens of a laborer as I was feeling chronically burnt out. Through my experiences, I’ve realized that I’ve only begun to tap into my rage. Honestly, I’m not angry enough. If the men who once tried to belittle me were intimidated enough to undermine me, then I’m just getting started – I plan to become even more formidable. Get ready.
Prepare for the unfiltered version of me – strong, opinionated, and unwilling to take any nonsense. I’d rather lose everything than lose myself. My most valuable asset is my honesty, and I bet yours is
Queer music executive and President of Head Bitch Music, Jessica Vaughn (also known as LACES), presents her essay titled “MASA: Make America Shameful Again – Why the Music Industry Needs Its Own Reckoning,” as part of Atwood Magazine’s Women’s History Month series. Vaughn states, “Driven by years of misogyny in the industry and a flawed system that suppresses women, I will not remain silent – I'm dismantling the wall of injustice, reclaiming my power, and creating music that calls for change.”
