International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality. However, the focus extends beyond women to include all genders, promoting equality for everyone.

So, this International Women’s Day, we reached out to female-identifying founders and leaders in the music industry to take a moment to honour those who are breaking barriers, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of the music industry.

I had the privilege of interviewing seven incredible women making their mark in the industry. Through their passion, resilience, and creativity, they inspire the next generation of artists, producers, and music executives.

Meet the Women 

Hannah Charman – Co-Founder and Managing Director, Resister Music 

“I’m Hannah Charman, Co-Founder and Managing Director of RESISTER. We are a music supervision, music strategy, and composer agency providing music and sound across all media formats. Our mission is to build a more inclusive music industry by advancing composer representation and amplifying diverse voices on all projects.”

Selena & Nia Hunter  – Co-Founders, Hathor Entertainment

Selena Hunter – “I have over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry. In addition to being a recording artist manager, I previously worked as a business manager for clients in music, film, television, and on Broadway. Hathor Entertainment is the first Black, majority women-owned, and women-led independent record label and music publishing company. It was co-founded by myself and my daughter, Nia Hunter, to address the underserved needs of women in music.”

Nia Hunter – “I am a progressive R&B singer-songwriter and producer whose music fuses infectious melodies, captivating hooks, and nostalgic 2000s soulful harmonies. Unlike other progressive R&B artists, I revive the soul of 2000s music with a fresh, modern edge, captivating audiences worldwide.”

Sophie Delila Baudry – Co-Founder and CEO, Freaknsee

“I’m Sophie Delila Baudry, co-founder and CEO of Freaknsee, a management and creative sync company. We represent a highly curated roster of Grammy-winning producers and a diverse catalog that spans everything from authentic 70s and 80s gems—disco, boogie, gospel—to cutting-edge electronic labels from Europe and emerging singer-songwriters.”

Tedra Wilson – Founder, Club Queen Records

“My name is Tedra, most notable as TT The Artist, and I am the Founder of Club Queen Records, a woman-focused record label pushing women’s voices to the forefront of the music industry. We serve as a premiere platform specifically for women of color in dance, pop, R&B, and hip hop genres.”

Mirette Seireg – Founder & CEO, Mpath Music

“In 2018 I founded Mpath, a production and custom music company dedicated to amplifying the talents of women and other underrepresented composers. Mpath became the world’s first production music library (Certified Women-Owned) to achieve gender parity among its 200+ globally curated composers. (By contrast, the industry average of female composers was 3% when Mpath was founded.) As an active member of the Production Music Association, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, and the Warner Center Chamber of Commerce, we collaborate with organizations such as the Alliance for Women Film Composers, Composers Diversity Collective, The Able Artists Foundation, and Mamas In Music to foster greater representation in the industry. While not a musician myself, my background brings a unique perspective—one that blends analytical problem-solving and project management skills with an unwavering commitment to inclusion. Dedicated to both creative fulfillment and commercial viability, Mpath seeks to create emotionally engaging connections across cultures and continents with the power of music.”

Nicole Barsalona – President, Women in Music

“My name is Nicole Barsalona, and I proudly serve as the President of the Board of Directors for Women in Music, a 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and advancing women in the music industry. Outside of my volunteer work at WIM, I am an artist manager, I serve on the Board of MMF-US, and on the Advisory Board for Moms in Music. I’m also a mom of two incredible girls.”

The Pursuit To A Career In Music

Everyone’s journey is different and no one’s journey into music is ever the same, so here are the stories behind our interviewees careers that are as diverse and inspiring as their professional paths.

Hannah Charman’s journey began in TV production, with a deep passion for storytelling. “I came from a career in TV production and have always had a passion for storytelling, film, and entertainment media. The rest of my time was spent immersed in music, so when I learned that there was a path that allowed me to do both, it was a no-brainer for me,” she shares.

For Selena, music became a lifeline during her challenging childhood in Chicago. “I was inspired to pursue a career in the music industry because music became my anchor during a challenging childhood in Chicago’s Englewood community. Growing up in a single-parent household on welfare, surrounded by gang violence and addiction, I found solace in music. Although few women in the industry looked like me, artists like Janet Jackson, with her empowering song Control, gave me hope.”

For her daughter Nia, music was simply always a part of her. “I was inspired to pursue a career in the music industry because music has been an intrinsic part of my life from the very beginning. Growing up in Atlanta, my passion for music was evident from an early age. My early recognition as one of the youngest songwriters affiliated with SESAC and producing music by age eleven solidified my dedication to the craft. Music has always been my way of expressing emotions, telling stories, and connecting with others.”

Sophie Delila Baudry knew she was destined for music from the start. “I’ve been in music for as long as I can remember. There was never a question of doing anything else. Growing up, my parents were very musical, and always supportive, which helped for sure. I was surrounded by 70s soul and disco records and stories about the industry. My career has taken different turns, but at the core, my love for music, working with talented people, being creative and building meaningful projects is what’s been fueling it!”

And also destined for a career in music is Nicole Barsalona, it was a family legacy. “My parents both worked in the industry—my mom was a rock journalist and my dad was an agent, and I grew up living and breathing the music business from day one. I thought I wanted nothing to do with it until I took a temp job after I graduated college… I was hooked!”

For Tedra, music was a way to break free and create change in a male-dominated industry. “I always wanted to use my voice over my image to push for change in a male-dominated music industry. Making music is a universal way to communicate who I am to a global audience no matter what background you come from.”

Taking an unconventional path, Mirette Seireg spent decades as a nutrition and food security expert before founding Mpath, a production and custom music company dedicated to amplifying the talents of women and underrepresented composers. “The music industry pursued me,” she shares, explaining how a chance encounter with APM Music’s President led her to recognize the industry’s need for greater representation. “I saw an opportunity to hold a welcoming space for talented women who were being overlooked. That put fire in my belly!”

Pivotal Moments that Shaped Their Careers

Each of these women has had moments that defined their careers, helping them grow, learn, and push forward. From being thrown in the deep end, to starting their entrepreneurial journeys and thoughtful conversations.

Hannah experienced a series of ‘thrown in the deep end’ moments. “Fortunately/unfortunately, I had a few ‘thrown in the deep end’ moments, where I was under-experienced and found myself in situations that still, thinking back, make my brow start to sweat. The good news is I managed to pull them all off… I don’t doubt myself anymore.”

For Selena and Nia, founding Hathor Entertainment was their defining moment. “A pivotal moment in our career occurred when we founded Hathor Entertainment to address the challenges women face in the music industry. We chose to create change instead of waiting for it,” shares Selena.

With Sophie there wasn’t a standout moment but more of a lifetime of pivotal moments. “There have been many, big and small… Moving to Boston to study at Berklee was a real turning point. That’s when I started thinking about music as a career. Later, signing a major label deal, working with people like Al Jarreau, Jeff Beck, and Plan B, touring with Nouvelle Vague, launching my own projects, and opening a studio two weeks before Covid all shaped my path.”

Surprisingly for Mirette, her pivotal moment was that same serendipitous conversation at the Guild of Music Supervisors ceremony that she was attending with her husband, a composer and then-Television Academy Governor. As Mirette found herself in a conversation with APM president Adam Taylor who asked if she had ever considered a career in production music. “At first, I thought it was a joke,” she recalls. But the more she reflected on it, the more it made sense. “As different as my career in combatting malnutrition and producing music might seem, I saw a connection. I thought, ‘I’m married to a baker, I might as well sell bread.’”

Lastly, for Nicole, it was a panel at SXSW that changed everything. “After five years working as a tour manager and chief of staff, I was burnt out and didn’t see a path forward in this business if I wanted to have a family one day, which I did. Then I saw a panel at SXSW featuring all women artist managers, and it changed my life. Seeing that kind of representation in an area of the business that I aspired to was really eye-opening.”

“I quickly realized that as a solo entrepreneur I would need resources and advisors in certain areas of the business, but I wanted to go to people who provided a safe and approachable environment in which to ask questions and seek advice. I googled ‘women in music’ and I found WIM – it was an invaluable resource for education, networking, and support, and thanks to those resources helping me grow my professional career, I haven’t looked back since.”

Overcoming Challenges: The Struggles And Triumphs Of Women In Music

Women in the music industry have long faced a variety of challenges, from systemic biases to personal struggles, and overcoming these obstacles requires resilience, support, and determination. Each of these incredible women has faced unique hurdles, and they’ve learned to overcome them in their own powerful ways.

Being a mother and having a career has always been a difficult topic and time to manage for most women. Hannah Charman reflects on the challenge of finding that balance in her personal and professional life, especially after becoming a mother. “Since I became a mother seven years ago, it’s been hard to find the right infrastructure to not have me teetering on the edge of burnout. But I know I’m not alone, and there are some amazing people running incredible campaigns that definitely help,” she shares.

“As a woman of color in the music industry, I’ve faced many challenges stemming from systemic racism, sexism, and the intersection of both. Everyday I try to overcome these by building a supportive community, educating myself about the industry, and advocating for myself and my collaborators,” 

Tedra Wilson – Founder, Club Queen Records

For Tedra, who’s navigated both sexism and racism in her career, it’s been about building a strong network of support. “As a woman of color in the music industry, I’ve faced many challenges stemming from systemic racism, sexism, and the intersection of both. Everyday I try to overcome these by building a supportive community, educating myself about the industry, and advocating for myself and my collaborators,” Tedra explains.

An area we feel still needs more work is the technical side of music, and Sophie Delila Baudry who works both as a producer and CEO, acknowledges the assumption that women are less capable in the technical side. “As a producer, it’s a tougher space—there are still fewer of us, and that comes with its own set of barriers. But I’ve found that being consistent, professional, and confident is key,” she explains. Sophie has built her career around these values, and it’s helped her gain the trust of both her peers and clients.

Another aspect women find all too often is being taken seriously in a male-dominated industry and Selena and Nia have found this to be the case in their careers; “One of the biggest challenges we have faced is being taken seriously by men, as their interest in collaborating often seemed driven by personal or sexual motives rather than talent. Women also face limited access to decision-making roles and opportunities in executive positions,” says Selena. They’ve overcome these obstacles by setting clear boundaries and aligning themselves with like-minded individuals who support their vision.

Mirette Seireg adds to this point “Imagine attending a large networking conference where men are huddled in groups, engaging in conversations designed to impress one another. Now, imagine being one of the few women there, walking up to introduce yourself.” She notes that while some men are eager to support women, there is still much progress to be made. “The beauty of being an artist is learning from rejection,” she says, emphasizing persistence and confidence as key to overcoming obstacles.

Nicole Barsalona, who serves as the President of the Board of Women in Music, shares her experience from the early 2000s. “When I started out in 2004, women were made to feel as though they were lucky just to be in the room. In some venues, the bathroom was just a single unmarked men’s bathroom, with no consideration for women.” However, after discovering Women in Music, Nicole found a network of people who empowered and supported her, “Once I found Women in Music, I met a network of people who were there to educate, empower and support me – whether I had a question about a contract that passed my desk, or needed advice on a career move. It changed everything for me. Instead of feeling intimidated or as though I was on the outside of a boy’s club, I felt supported by peers and mentors who I could lean on and grow with. It was transformational.”

Women In Music have ongoing programs and initiatives that educate and support growth for their members, and they also have some larger-scope campaigns to create lasting change:

• Safe(r) Spaces Initiative seeks to provide resources and will evolve into a certification program.
• WIM Workplace Initiative seeks to add some transparency and standards for workplace culture in music.
• WIM Executive Internship Program, Mentorship Program, Next Gen Initiatives and more seek to offer an entry point for people wanting to get into the industry, and then support them as they grow in their careers.

There’s so much more work to do, but there are a lot of people dedicated to making this industry a more inclusive space.

Is The Industry Getting Better?

The music industry has made progress in addressing some of the challenges women face, but there’s still work to be done.

Nicole Barsalona highlights the strides that organizations and companies have made in fostering inclusivity. “We’re lightyears ahead of where we were when Women in Music was founded. There are incredible organizations like Gender Amplified, She is the Music, and We Make Noise that are dedicated to creating a more equitable industry,” she says. She points out that companies like Live Nation Women and Wasserman’s The Collective are setting important precedents in the effort to create lasting change.

Acknowledging that the conversation is shifting is Sophie Delila Baudry as she explains that “There’s still a lot of work to do, but things have shifted in the past few years. More conversations are happening, and more people are aware of the issues,” she says, indicating that change is happening, albeit slowly.

Selena and Nia also see progress but agree there’s still significant underrepresentation of women, especially when it comes to pay and leadership roles. “There has been progress, but women remain significantly underrepresented and underpaid. The majority of individuals in the music industry also struggle with mental health issues. At Hathor Entertainment, we were the first to collaborate with a mental health coach, and it’s great to see other labels following suit,” Selena shares.

“I definitely think it’s come a long way. The rise of artists and influential people having their own channels and ability to share their personal views means more of these messages are reaching the people who shape the industry,”

Hannah Charman – Co-Founder and Managing Director, Resister Music

The rise of social media and having your voice heard has also had an impact as Hannah Charman explains that the rise of personal channels and creative voices has helped make room for more diverse perspectives. “I definitely think it’s come a long way. The rise of artists and influential people having their own channels and ability to share their personal views means more of these messages are reaching the people who shape the industry,” she says. But she acknowledges there’s still much more to do.

But we have to be realistic about the industry’s current progress, Tedra believes “the industry is lacking in addressing challenges that most marginalized groups face. While there have been some strides, there’s still a lot of work to be done to make the industry truly inclusive,” she reflects.

Adding to the realism Mirette offers a unique perspective on whether the industry is improving. “Perhaps the underlying question is: has the music industry gotten better at addressing challenges faced by people in general?” While she acknowledges some progress, she warns of recent rollbacks in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives. “I would like to believe that the music industry will not be intimidated by destructive recklessness, has the courage to hold onto the progress made, assist in the formation of a composer’s union (or at least a guild), and come to grips with the fact that artists are workers and music is a business.” She goes on to question “While the industry has made some strides for inclusion, are they sustainable and how might they thrive in a hostile environment?”

Combating Sexism In The Music Industry

Sexism remains a pervasive issue in the music industry, but these women are fighting back, and their approaches offer insight into how we can combat this problem.

For Hannah Charman, it’s all about surrounding herself with like-minded people who won’t tolerate sexism. “I’m lucky that I’ve built a wonderful network around me of like-minded people. There are still sexist people in all industries, and unfortunately, that may exclude RESISTER from some opportunities. We need to keep speaking out and calling people on it, because it’s quite embarrassing for them,” she says.

Selena and Nia agree that creating more opportunities for women and challenging the biases in decision-making are key. “Combating sexism requires creating more opportunities for women, ensuring safe workspaces, and challenging systemic biases in decision-making and hiring practices,” Selena explains.

 “Combating sexism requires creating more opportunities for women, ensuring safe workspaces, and challenging systemic biases in decision-making and hiring practices,” 

Selena & Nia Hunter – Co-Founders, Hathor Entertainment

In Sophie Delila Baudry‘s experience, it’s about continuing to show up with confidence and professionalism. “There are still moments where I’m not addressed the same way a man would be. But I’ve learned to adjust, and I always keep my focus on what’s best for my artists. When it happens to others, I don’t hesitate to call it out, whether it’s a moment of wit or an unsubtle eyebrow lift,” she shares. She believes that supporting each other as women and having men join in on the fight is essential to making sexism obsolete.

Tedra points out the double disadvantage she faces as a woman of color. “Combating sexism in the music industry as a woman of color requires a combination of personal resilience, strategic action, and systemic advocacy,” she asserts.

Mirette highlights a stark reality: many industry leaders don’t even realize their lack of female representation. “Few see themselves as sexist, yet when I ask how many female composers they have in their library, the answer is often ‘a few,’ ‘none,’ or ‘I don’t know.’” She believes practical conversations and measurable goals are essential to addressing sexism in the industry. “What gets measured gets done.”

Finally, Nicole Barsalona emphasizes the importance of allies in combatting sexism. “I don’t know a single woman who doesn’t face some form of sexism in their work. But it’s been the calling out of sexism by other men that I’ve seen make a huge difference. Allies are a huge piece of the puzzle here,” she explains. She also notes the importance of initiatives like WIM’s Safe(r) Spaces and programs that offer training and resources to combat harassment and abuse.

The Importance of Diverse Representation In The Music and Media Industry

Hannah Charman believes that diverse representation is crucial in every industry. “For me, it’s as important as having diverse representation in all facets of everything. The world is full of different voices and talents, and until they are all given representative seats at the table, the music/media industry isn’t whole. It’s lacking the vibrancy and brilliance that only someone who has walked a different path could bring,” she explains.

Selena and Nia echo this sentiment, emphasizing that diverse representation is essential not only for breaking down stereotypes but for fostering creativity and innovation. “It allows young women to dream bigger and see themselves in roles they may not have imagined possible, inspiring the next generation to pursue their passions fearlessly,” they say.

For Sophie Delila Baudry, the impact of representation goes beyond the professional realm. “Some of my past female interns have come back to tell me how inspiring it was to see me work, how much they learned, and how valuable the experience was for them,” she shares. “Representation is just as important for younger kids. Seeing someone who looks like them in a role they aspire to helps them believe it’s possible.”

“Representation is just as important for younger kids. Seeing someone who looks like them in a role they aspire to helps them believe it’s possible.”

Sophie Delila Baudry – Co-Founder and CEO, Freaknsee

Tedra highlights that representation creates a safer environment for women, not just professionally but mentally and physically. “Having diverse and inclusive representation is important because it creates a safer working environment for women in the industry,” she says.

Mirette emphasizes the importance of diverse representation, not just for moral reasons but for business success. “If the goal of the music industry is to recruit the best storytelling talent, we’re missing the mark by excluding half the world’s talent.” She argues that leaving out women is a short-sighted approach that negatively impacts both storytelling and business outcomes.

For Nicole Barsalona, diverse representation is not just a moral imperative—it’s a business advantage. “Representation is key. Research shows that company profits and share performance can be close to 50% higher when women are well represented at the top (McKinsey) and gender diverse companies are more productive, innovative, and attractive to top talent (Harvard Business Review)”. She argues that gender-diverse companies are more productive, innovative, and attractive to top talent, making diversity essential for success in the industry.

Creating a More Inclusive Environment In The Music Industry

The conversation around diversity and inclusivity in the music industry is ongoing, and these women have some important ideas on what needs to change.

Hannah Charman calls for safer studio environments, particularly for women, and more representation in technical and engineering roles. “The studio environment needs to be safer for women, more representation on the tech and engineering side of things, and somewhere women can go if they feel unsafe or have been discriminated against,” she emphasizes. She also points out the importance of crediting composers on projects, a crucial step toward equity.

Echoing this is Sophie Delila Baudry, who wants to see more visibility for women in behind-the-scenes roles like producers, engineers, and A&Rs. “There are so many talented women working in these fields who deserve more credit,” she asserts. Sophie also stresses the importance of bringing men into the conversation to foster a more inclusive environment.

But there needs to be the opportunities in place, as Selena and Nia want to advocate for more opportunities specifically in songwriting and production. “There must be more opportunities for women in songwriting and production, and it’s important to educate artists and industry leaders on the significance of representation,” they say. They believe every song should be a chance to bring more women into the creative process and give them the credit they deserve.

A call to the major labels in a shift for how talent is valued as Tedra says “I would love to see more major record labels and brands supporting a wider spectrum of women talent, not solely based on vanity metrics, social media virality, body, and image,” she says. She also advocates for placing women in more executive and leadership roles, which would contribute to a more inclusive industry overall.

“Those historically excluded have been denied opportunities. Without opportunities, they don’t gain experience. Without experience, they are further excluded. There has to be a better way.”

Mirette Seireg – Founder & CEO, Mpath Music

But Mirette believes the key to inclusion is breaking the cycle of exclusion. “Those historically excluded have been denied opportunities. Without opportunities, they don’t gain experience. Without experience, they are further excluded. There has to be a better way.” She calls on the industry to adopt DE&I best practices from high-performing businesses, emphasizing that inclusion benefits everyone.

Highlighting the importance of transparency and ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity Nicole Barsalona would “love companies and individuals to join us in rating their experiences in the WIM Workplace Initiative and reach out to see how they can get involved,” she says. Women in Music is working to create a more inclusive industry and offers resources for anyone who wants to contribute to positive change.

What Legacy Do You Hope To Leave For The Next Generation Of Women In The Music Industry?

The women interviewed in this piece are united in their desire to pave the way for future generations of women in the music industry.

In hopes of keeping the path open for the next generation Hannah Charman explains that “If we are able to open doors that have previously been closed, I hope the next generation can keep them open for others too,” she says. Her ultimate goal is to be part of efforts that make the industry a safe space where great work can thrive.

Following those sentiments Nicole Barsalona wants the legacy to be about removing obstacles and making the industry more sustainable for future generations. “I want to pave more paths for women to achieve their dreams and try to make the journey more sustainable along the way,” she explains. She also emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, so women can harness their power and continue to push the industry forward.

“I want to pave more paths for women to achieve their dreams and try to make the journey more sustainable along the way,” 

Nicole Barsalona – President, Women in Music

With those open doors comes flexibility as Sophie Delila Baudry reflects on the journey with a sense of humility, acknowledging that she is still in the thick of it. “Perhaps one of versatility—that you can have several roles at once, and several lives in your existence,” she says, suggesting that women in the music industry should embrace multiple identities and roles simultaneously.

Mirette envisions a future where women’s talent speaks louder than their gender. “I want the next generation of women in the music industry to inherit an ecosystem where opportunities are abundant, and they no longer have to fight to be taken seriously.” Through Mpath, she has already set a precedent, achieving gender parity in an industry where the norm was just 3% female representation. “Inclusion leads to excellence. Business success and equity are not mutually exclusive.”

Not forgetting the women who want to leave their mark like Selena and Nia, with the legacy they wish to leave is one of empowerment. “We aim to ensure women have equitable opportunities and control over their creative and professional lives,” they share. And also Tedra who aspires to be remembered as an innovator and disruptor. “I want to change the way women see themselves in the larger landscape of the music industry. I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment!” she says.

What Does International Women’s Day Mean to You Personally and Professionally?

International Women’s Day holds different meanings for each of these women, but it’s a day to celebrate the collective achievements of women and advocate for continued progress.

For Mirette, International Women’s Day is a time for reflection and action. “Where have we been? Where are we now? Where are we headed? And how in the hell are we going to get there? It’s a time to acknowledge trailblazing women and to collectively laugh and cry.”

Also having a moment to reflect on achievements and advocating for further progress is Selena and Nia, “It’s an opportunity to reflect on achievements, advocate for progress, and celebrate the contributions of women in reshaping cultural narratives,” they say.

Echoing the above, Hannah Charman sees the day as an opportunity to reflect on the strength of the women who influenced her. “Personally, it means tons. I come from a house of women who are all absolute forces of nature,” she shares. Professionally, she appreciates how it brings attention to the work she does with her business partner to amplify women’s voices in music. “Every day is International Women’s Day at RESISTER,” she adds.

“Women’s Day is a moment to recognize and uplift the women who paved the way for all of us,”

Tedra Wilson – Founder, Club Queen Records

Seeing it as an opportunity to honor those who made it possible for the future generations of women to follow their dreams is Tedra who says “Women’s Day is a moment to recognize and uplift the women who paved the way for all of us,” she says.

Valuing the chance to spotlight women’s stories is Sophie Delila Baudry “It’s a reminder of the power of representation and storytelling,” she explains, referencing a documentary project she scored that featured inspiring women from different fields.

Lastly, focusing all about connections is Nicole Barsalona who says “We are all sisters bound by common experiences, challenges, and hope,” she explains, highlighting the global sisterhood of women that transcends borders and experiences.

Advice for Young Women Aspiring to Break Into the Music Industry

Breaking into the music industry can be tough, but these trailblazing women have invaluable advice for the next generation of young women.

Mirette advises beginning with the end in mind. “Be patient but persistent in understanding your vision. Why do you want to be in the music industry?” She encourages women to embrace self-discovery, grow their networks, and find mentors. “When inspiration knocks, invite it in. Take care of yourself, and above all, listen to your inner voice.”

Encouraging young women to dive in and trust their skills is Hannah Charman as she advocated; “Do it. There has never been a better time. Know what you are good at and do that. Also, I think there’s a lot to be said for being part of a team, finding someone to bounce ideas off of, and working with people with different skillsets so you can play to your individual strengths,” she advises.

On this theme Tedra highlights the importance of understanding the business and legal aspects of the industry. “I would advise women looking to break into the music industry to take time and learn the business and legal aspects. There are a lot of free resources out there that will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate and not be taken advantage of,” she cautions.

Selena and Nia stress the importance of building a unique identity while networking. “Young women aspiring to break into the music industry should focus on becoming uniquely undeniable while building their networks. Additionally, they should be either earning or learning in every opportunity they pursue.” they suggest.

“Stay focused, be consistent, always strive to improve your craft, build real connections, push your limits, respect yourself and others, and be ready to work—a lot. At the same time, taking care of yourself is just as important,”

Sophie Delila Baudry – Co-Founder and CEO, Freaknsee

For Sophie Delila Baudry, success comes from a balance of focus, hard work, and self-care. “Stay focused, be consistent, always strive to improve your craft, build real connections, push your limits, respect yourself and others, and be ready to work—a lot. At the same time, taking care of yourself is just as important,” she advises. She also encourages women to support each other and lift each other up, as it makes a significant difference.

Encouraging young women to find supportive communities as Nicole Barsalona shares “Find your communities and get involved. Volunteer, meet people, learn and grow with your peers, and build relationships with mentors,” she advises. She believes these networks will be crucial for success at every stage of a young woman’s career.

What Is Your Favourite Female Sync Placement or Female Song and Why?

Lastly, it wouldn’t be a Synchblog if we didn’t ask each of these women about their favorite female songs and sync placements or female anthem!

Hannah Charman immediately thinks of Tori Amos’ “Cornflake Girl” in Yellowjackets. “Nora Felder supervised that show and my word, she did an amazing job,” she says, pointing to the perfect placement of this iconic track.

For Selena, the anthem “Control” by Janet Jackson is her top pick. “It embodies the strength and resilience that women in the music industry and life must embrace to carve their paths,” she explains. Nia opts for Sia’s “Chandelier,” a song that deeply resonates with her for its raw emotion and captivating sound.

Sophie Delila Baudry takes pride in working with Phyliss McCoy Joubert, whose song “Stand On The Word” has appeared in numerous TV shows and films. “Phyliss is a powerhouse,” she says, underscoring how her music elevates every scene it accompanies.

Tedra is particularly proud of her own song “Bass Drop Bigger,” which was featured in Nappily Ever After. “It’s a powerful scene where the character takes ownership of her identity,” she shares, highlighting the significance of this moment in film.

Mirette shares the story of her favorite sync placement: Nathalie Bonin’s “Arrival of the Princess” in Bridgerton. “It was a dream come true. After months of effort, we saw her track featured in a key ballroom scene. That moment earned a Mark Award and a Hollywood in Music Award.”

Lastly, Nicole Barsalona points to Donna Missal’s “Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby” from the “Promising Young Woman” soundtrack as a favorite. “Her voice is so raw and edgy,” she says, noting how the track enhances the intensity of the film. She also loves Sia’s “Breath Me” in Six Feet Under, which left a lasting emotional impact.

Wrapping Up: The Power of Representation, Empowerment, And The Future Of Women In Music

In this conversation, each of these women shared their unique perspectives on the importance of representation, empowerment, and creating an inclusive industry for the next generation of female talent. They all aim to leave a lasting legacy, whether by opening doors, challenging norms, or empowering others to take their place in the spotlight.

As the industry continues to evolve, the need for diverse and inclusive voices has never been more crucial. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still more to be done to ensure that women have equitable opportunities in the music and media industries.

These women are trailblazers, paving the way for a future where every woman, regardless of background or identity, can find her place in the music industry and thrive. As they continue to break barriers and amplify the voices of women, their work will inspire countless others to do the same.

Happy International Women’s Day!