To commemorate Women’s History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to contribute essays that reflect on themes like identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
Today, ANDIE, a singer-songwriter and guitarist influenced by soul and blues, presents a guide on advocating for women in the music scene. As the leader of ANDIE & The Bandits, whose Tiny Desk submission was featured by NPR, she promotes inclusivity and accountability in her piece, “A Step-by-Step Guide to Being a Girl’s Girl in the Music Industry (No Matter Your Gender!)” within Atwood Magazine’s Women’s History Month series.
ANDIE (Andie Williams) has been part of Chicago’s music scene for over nine years, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Contemporary Music from Columbia College Chicago and performing at numerous venues throughout the city. Her storytelling, rooted in a queer and polyromantic perspective, offers a unique take on love and heartbreak. The latest single from ANDIE & The Bandits, “Maneater,” was released on March 7th, with more music slated for 2025.
By Andie Williams
Let it be clear that my use of the term “Girl’s Girl” in this essay is not strictly about gender, but rather about supporting and uplifting those who actively oppose misogyny and bigotry. This article celebrates Women’s History Month, and it is essential to recognize the inclusion of trans and non-binary individuals, as well as the intersection of queerness and race. While I use the terms “Women” and “Men” for clarity, my intention is one of inclusion.
A bit about me: I’m ANDIE, a bandleader of ANDIE & The Bandits who draws inspiration from blues and soul. As a queer and polyamorous woman, my songwriting reflects my experiences and viewpoints on love, desire, and heartbreak.
Step 1: Include Us!
There’s nothing I find more tedious than an all-male band… just kidding! However, it can be disheartening to see more all-male bands than otherwise. It’s important to ensure that your local scene includes marginalized voices.
Women, we must lift each other through support and opportunities. There is an unspoken expectation for us to compete, but we can shift that dynamic. We gain strength when we unite and promote each other’s growth.
Men, it is your duty to include and engage women in the music industry. If you’re not contributing to the solution, you’re part of the problem! I suggest starting with the musical community directly around you.
Step 2: Understand Us!
Take the time to learn about the experiences of women in the music industry. Engage in conversations about how to foster a safe environment for everyone. While it may seem obvious, directly asking what to watch for regarding safety can ensure everyone is aligned. I’ve often witnessed men defending someone accused of being “unsafe” by saying, “he didn’t treat me that way.” It’s crucial to recognize that those who present as masculine may not encounter the same treatment as those who present femininely.
This brings me to the topic of “mansplaining.” Men, please refrain from speaking to women as if we’re children, as it only showcases your incompetence and sexism. I understand mansplaining can sometimes come from a genuine desire to help, but it often comes off as condescending. However, I’ve learned a lot from male musicians around me, and I feel more comfortable when I ask questions rather than being instructed without initiating it myself; of course, everyone is different. It never hurts to inquire.
Step 3: Defend Us!
If you genuinely want to be recognized as a “Girl’s Girl” or an ally, you MUST defend marginalized individuals. Unfortunately, there will be times when a woman or marginalized person feels unsafe; I’ve seen this happen repeatedly. That’s your moment to step in! Every situation is unique, but safety should always come first, whether by intervening in an uncomfortable interaction or helping someone leave to avoid an unwanted encounter.
Believing the women around you is one of the most crucial aspects. When a woman expresses discomfort, you don’t need to fully comprehend why; just be supportive in that moment. Reflect, even if it’s your friend she’s referring to, and consider her feelings or simply ask her. Girls – let’s communicate! Sharing our experiences can protect us and hold others accountable. You might be feeling the same unease or unfairness as someone else, yet might be hesitant to share. I encourage women to be open with one another and to value each other’s experiences.
What does it truly mean to be a Girl’s Girl in the music industry?
Being a Girl’s Girl means actively engaging with the belief that women (and non-binary individuals) should have a greater presence within the current landscape of the music industry. Women sadly make up the minority in this field, making it all
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Soul and blues-influenced songwriter, singer, and guitarist ANDIE provides a guide on how to support and advocate for women in the music scene. As the bandleader of ANDIE & The Bandits, whose Tiny Desk submission was highlighted by NPR, she promotes inclusivity and accountability in her piece 'A Step-by-Step Guide to Being a Girl’s Girl in the Music Industry (No Matter Your Gender!)', featured in Atwood Magazine's Women's History Month series.