This Woman’s Work: Essays on Music

Dive into a groundbreaking exploration of women in music with "This Woman's Work: Essays on Music," a powerful and essential collection edited by the iconic Kim Gordon (founding member of Sonic Youth) and the acclaimed writer Sinad Gleeson. This hardcover edition, published by Hachette Books in 2022, is a vital contribution to music criticism, feminist theory, and women's studies, challenging the historically male-dominated narrative of music history. "This Woman's Work" isn't just a book; it's a revolution in perspective. It fearlessly confronts the sexism and biases deeply embedded within the music industry and its critical analysis. Through a diverse array of voices, including essays from award-winning novelists, poets, critics, and musicians, this collection amplifies the stories of female artists who have defied expectations, broken barriers, and redefined the landscape of music. Forget the typical "great men" narratives. This volume celebrates the experimentalists, the activists, the genre-bending innovators, and the vocal auteurs who have shaped music in profound and often overlooked ways. Contributors like Anne Enright reflect on the groundbreaking artistry of Laurie Anderson, while Megan Jasper (CEO of Sub Pop Records) shares her insider perspective on disrupting the music industry. Margo Jefferson offers a nuanced exploration of Bud Powell and Ella Fitzgerald, challenging traditional interpretations, and Fatima Bhutto connects music to the struggles and resilience found under dictatorial regimes. Beyond celebrating individual artists, "This Woman's Work" delves into broader themes of identity, representation, and cultural impact. The essays explore the complexities of race, gender, and sexuality within music, offering fresh insights into the racialized tropes of jazz, the vibrant sounds of Trap and Carriacou, and the personal significance of mixtapes and musical education. Contributors examine the influence of lost homelands, the power of friendship, and the role of music as both propaganda and a source of liberation. The incredible lineup of contributors also includes Jenn Pelly, Rachel Kushner, Juliana Huxtable, Leslie Jamison, Liz Pelly, Maggie Nelson, Ottessa Moshfegh, Simone White, Yiyun Li, and Zakia Sewell, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the conversation. This diverse range of writers ensures a rich and multifaceted reading experience that will resonate with anyone interested in music, feminism, and the power of artistic expression. More than just a collection of essays, "This Woman's Work" is a call to action. It challenges readers to reconsider the canon of music history, to seek out and celebrate the contributions of female artists, and to dismantle the systemic inequalities that continue to limit their opportunities. Its a crucial read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the music industry and the vital role women play within it. This book provides a new way of thinking about the vast spectrum of women in music, it's for and about the women who kicked in doors, pioneers of their craft or making politics central to their sound. This 272-page exploration is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their musical horizons and challenge the status quo.