Malta’s Women in Music: Beyond March

Picture this: Republic Street, a bustling heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta. It’s International Women’s Day, and the air is filled with chants of “Women’s rights are human rights!” Yet, amidst the sea of placards and speeches, one question lingers: Where are the women in the music industry’s narrative?

March is over, but the conversation about gender equality in music shouldn’t be. Malta, with its vibrant music scene, is no exception to the global imbalance. According to a Guardian report, women make up only 17% of songwriters and 2% of producers in the UK. The picture isn’t much different here.

Malta has its fair share of female musical powerhouses. Think of Annalise Azzopardi, who’s been dominating the local charts and breaking barriers since her teenage years. Or Cleo Stylian, a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter who’s taken the local scene by storm.

But these women are the exception, not the rule. The local music industry, like its global counterpart, is still a male-dominated space. So, what’s holding us back?

Stereotypes, lack of representation, and unequal opportunities are just some of the hurdles women face. But there’s hope. Initiatives like Women in Music Malta are championing gender equality in the local scene. They’re hosting workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, fostering a community of women in music.

And it’s working. More women are stepping into the spotlight, both on stage and behind the scenes. Local festivals like Island Festivals are actively promoting gender balance in their lineups.

But it’s not just about numbers. It’s about changing the narrative. We need to challenge stereotypes, celebrate women’s achievements, and create spaces where everyone can thrive. We need to listen to women’s stories, amplify their voices, and support their careers.

So, let’s not wait for another March to roll around. Let’s keep the conversation going, keep pushing for change, and keep making space for women in music. Because every voice deserves to be heard, every story deserves to be told.

As Cleo Stylian puts it, “We’re not asking for special treatment, we’re asking for equal opportunity. And once we have that, watch us soar.”