Music has always been more than just a collection of sounds—it’s an expression of culture, identity, and passion. However, the world of music has long been dominated by a select few, particularly men in positions of power, whether in the recording studio, on stage, or behind the scenes. This imbalance has led to the underrepresentation of women in many areas of the music industry. Yet, a new initiative is on the rise, one that promises to change the narrative and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry.
Platoon Presents: She Runs the Boards, a groundbreaking program aimed at empowering women in music, is making waves in Mexico. This initiative is not just a platform for showcasing female talent, but a movement to actively combat gender inequality within the music sector. Through immersive musical laboratories, the program provides participants with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to thrive in an industry that has historically been skewed toward male-dominated roles.
The program’s core mission is to foster women’s participation across all facets of the music industry, from production and engineering to songwriting, management, and beyond. By addressing these gender disparities head-on, She Runs the Boards seeks to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from fully engaging in the musical landscape.
Breaking Down Barriers: A New Era for Women in Music
At the heart of She Runs the Boards is a commitment to reshaping the future of music. Through a series of interactive workshops and labs, female artists, producers, and technicians from diverse backgrounds come together to explore the various roles and careers available within the music industry. The initiative emphasizes the importance of not just having a seat at the table but owning the boardroom—whether that involves producing a hit record, managing an artist’s career, or running a music label.
The immersive nature of these musical laboratories allows participants to gain hands-on experience while learning from industry leaders and established figures. It’s an environment where young women are encouraged to take the reins, experiment with different musical genres, and refine their skills in a supportive, inclusive space. The program spans a range of musical styles, from contemporary pop to Mexican regional music, ensuring that participants have the opportunity to explore diverse genres and gain a comprehensive understanding of the global music scene.
In the process, She Runs the Boards also aims to bridge the gap between the international music industry and the local Mexican scene, allowing female artists to make their mark on both national and global stages. By focusing on Mexican regional music alongside global pop influences, the initiative creates a fusion of cultural identities that enriches the overall experience for both participants and audiences alike.
The Power of Representation: Why Diversity Matters
One of the fundamental beliefs behind the program is that representation is key to creating lasting change. The music industry, like many others, often reflects a narrow view of what talent looks like and who can succeed in a particular field. She Runs the Boards works to challenge these outdated perceptions by ensuring that women are not only visible but also have the opportunity to lead, innovate, and define their careers on their own terms.
“Music isn’t just sound; it’s a reflection of society,” says an industry expert from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). “True artistic expression flourishes when there is diversity in all aspects of the creative process, including who is behind the music and the stories being told.”
By elevating women and providing them with the resources and guidance they need, the program hopes to create a ripple effect that will inspire future generations of women to step up and claim their space in the music industry. With women in charge, the soundscape of the future will undoubtedly be more varied, dynamic, and innovative.
A Global Call for Change: The Ripple Effect of She Runs the Boards
While She Runs the Boards is making an impact in Mexico, its effects are reverberating throughout the global music industry. The initiative shines a spotlight on a key issue that has been largely overlooked for years: the lack of equal representation and opportunities for women in music. By fostering a space where women can collaborate, learn, and grow, the program is creating a ripple effect that is inspiring similar initiatives worldwide.
As the program grows, it will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on the way women are perceived in the music industry. It is not just about improving the odds for individual women; it’s about shifting the culture of the industry as a whole, creating a more inclusive and equal environment where everyone has the chance to succeed, regardless of gender.
The Role of Technology: Bridging the Gap Between Art and Innovation
A key component of She Runs the Boards is its focus on technology. In today’s digital age, the role of technology in music production, distribution, and performance cannot be overstated. Women involved in the program have the chance to experiment with cutting-edge tools and software, learning how to incorporate technology into their musical processes.
From digital audio workstations (DAWs) to synthesizers and innovative sound engineering techniques, participants are encouraged to push the boundaries of what’s possible within the realm of music production. The program doesn’t just teach women how to use technology—it teaches them how to innovate and lead in a space where tech and art converge.
By empowering women with the knowledge and skills to use these tools, She Runs the Boards is equipping them for success in an ever-evolving industry. The technological aspect of the program also enables women to take control of their creative output, helping to level the playing field in a world where access to resources has often been a significant barrier.
The Road Ahead: Sustainability and Growth
Looking forward, She Runs the Boards is poised to continue its expansion and impact. As the program grows in scope and reach, it will open doors for even more women to become leaders in the music industry. The program’s organizers are committed to ensuring that it remains sustainable, with plans to partner with local and international organizations, media outlets, and industry leaders to continue to promote gender equality in the music world.
In the long run, She Runs the Boards aims to create a lasting legacy—a world where the next generation of women in music no longer has to fight for a seat at the table but is already running the show.
The Importance of Public Media and Music Licensing in Supporting the Movement
In the broader context of the music industry, the discussion surrounding the funding and regulation of public media and music licensing is becoming increasingly important. With ongoing debates about funding cuts to public media, particularly in New England, the future of radio and TV stations that support diverse voices, including women in music, remains uncertain.
The changes in the landscape of music licensing, especially with platforms like SiriusXM, SoundExchange, and the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), could have significant implications for the future of artists’ rights, royalties, and the availability of music on public and private platforms. These changes may impact the very avenues through which initiatives like She Runs the Boards are able to promote women’s work in the industry.
As public media stations and licensing agreements come under scrutiny, it’s critical to recognize how such shifts could impact female musicians and their ability to reach wider audiences. Platforms that offer fair compensation and resources for emerging artists will be essential in ensuring that the movement toward gender equality in music continues to thrive.
Conclusion: A Call for a More Inclusive Future
The movement to support women in the music industry is gaining momentum, and She Runs the Boards is leading the charge. By breaking down barriers, fostering collaboration, and providing access to the resources needed to succeed, this program is helping to rewrite the future of music. As the industry evolves, we can only hope that initiatives like She Runs the Boards will become the standard, creating a music world that is more inclusive, diverse, and equitable for all.
The next time you hear a powerful track that resonates deeply, remember: there’s a growing number of women who are behind the boards, making their voices heard and shaping the sound of tomorrow.
