Shania Twain calls for equal play and more diversity in country music | CNN

Shania Twain calls for greater representation in country music as she accepts prestigious award.

The renowned singer-songwriter used her acceptance speech at Sunday's CMT Awards to champion equal play and increased diversity within the country music industry. In a passionate plea, Twain highlighted the need for a more inclusive genre that celebrates all its artists regardless of their background or identity.

Twain acknowledged how one phrase from her iconic hit "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" has become an empowering anthem, resonating with people worldwide and transcending generations. She emphasized the significance of this phrase in fueling her own journey as an artist and inspiring countless others to find their voice.

The country music legend expressed her conviction that an inclusive industry is essential for its continued growth and evolution. "We're family," Twain said, emphasizing the need for unity among artists. However, she noted that the current state of affairs does a disservice to this rich history, which has nurtured many successful careers, including hers.

During her speech, Twain showcased her commitment to breaking down barriers by highlighting several talented up-and-coming artists who will be joining her on her upcoming "Queen of Me" tour. These include Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, and Mickey Guyton, among others. By featuring a diverse range of performers, Twain aims to promote greater representation within the industry.

Twain concluded by reaffirming her role as a trailblazer, vowing to continue advocating for equal play for all artists, regardless of their background or age. This promise was underscored by her poignant performance with The BoykinZ, an African American singing group who are sisters and rising country stars. By sharing the stage together, Twain and The BoykinZ celebrated the power of unity and collaboration in country music.

I mean, it's about time Shania Twain spoke up for change... 30 years after releasing "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" Country music is like that one aunt at the family reunion - always seems to have been stuck in the past. But hey, if anyone can bring some much-needed diversity to the genre, it's Shania . The fact that she's using her platform to showcase talented artists from different backgrounds is a great step forward, but we'll see how long it takes for things to actually change . On the bright side, I'm so here for more of "Queen of Me" tour Can't wait to see these new faces on stage!

Shania's speech was super passionate, but let's be real ... it's about time someone stepped up and brought this issue to the table. It's not like the industry has been completely oblivious to diversity problems. I mean, have you seen the guest lists at these music awards? It's always a "who's who" of old-school country legends. Where are all the new faces?!

Shania Twain is speaking from the heart here. I love how she's using her platform to bring people together . Country music can be a super divisive genre, but she's showing us that it doesn't have to be . It's awesome that she's giving a spot on tour to these talented artists - we need more of this inclusive vibe in the industry . Can you imagine if there were more women of color and LGBTQ+ artists being featured in mainstream country music? That would be a whole new era of country

I gotta say, Shania Twain's speech at the CMT Awards was super relatable . I mean, we've all been there - trying to break through the noise and prove ourselves in an industry that can be pretty cliquey. But let's be real, country music has a rep for being super homogeneous . And I'm not saying that's necessarily a bad thing, but it would be dope to see some more diverse faces on stage .

Twain's point about "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" becoming an anthem for people all over the world is so true . But at the same time, let's not forget that this song was written by Twain specifically with a certain audience in mind - women who feel empowered to be themselves . So it's cool that she's using her platform to advocate for greater representation, but can't we also acknowledge how she benefited from a certain set of circumstances?

I'm so glad Shania Twain is speaking up about this! It's crazy how country music has become a bit stale with everyone being from the same place. We need more diversity and representation, like what she did by featuring those talented artists on her tour . And you know what's even crazier? How one of her songs can inspire so many people, it's wild . But let's be real, the music industry has been slow to change. I've seen some of these up-and-coming artists struggling to get noticed, and it's a shame . Shania Twain is like a superhero, fighting for equality and unity in country music . We need more people like her who are willing to speak out and make a difference .

I'm not sure about Shania Twain's motives here . I mean, I get that she wants more diversity in country music, but is this just a PR stunt to boost her own tour? She's already got some talented up-and-coming artists on board, so it feels like she's trying to make herself look like the "good guy" instead of actually making a real impact. And what about all the established country stars who aren't doing anything to address these issues? It's a bit rich for Twain to be talking about unity and collaboration when some of her peers are still stuck in their own little bubble .