By Devon Russell
A few days ago, my partner and I had an eye-opening experience about the recent rise of sexualization in the music industry, particularly of women. Artists like Ashnikko, Clairo, Doja Cat, and many others have spoken out against the industry, rightly opting to express themselves however they may choose.
“But doesn’t wearing revealing clothes and shaking their butt on stage sexualize them?” he asked.
Drawing attention to their bodies isn’t a call to be sexualized. These artists have suffered countless traumas, as many women have, and are using their platforms to let others know that it’s completely okay to show off your body.
For too long, women have been hiding themselves and downplaying their sexuality. It’s time for that to change. With more celebrities encouraging self-empowerment, it inspires those of us who may not have the social status to find motivation in keeping our reputations clean.
What fans need to remember is that, even though they may seem unreal, celebrities are artists too. Sharing their trauma through music meant to empower others, especially those going through a similar situation, is terrifying.
After performing her song, “Pretty Girl,” a song about overcoming the need to look perfect for the male gaze, Clairo, an American singer-songwriter, was met with an incredibly untimely message.
“You’re so hot!” a fan said, not missing a beat as the song ended. Immediately, Clairo began to cry on stage.
This is why women, including popular artists, may hide their feelings and conform to the status quo. Clairo bared her heart for her audience and was betrayed almost instantly.
Ashnikko, another female-empowering artist, released a song in 2018 titled “Invitation” that addresses this specific issue. The song expresses the complications of being an empowered woman in a man’s world.
Even dressing for the weather is taken as an invitation to comment on our bodies. These comments are damaging; women shouldn’t feel forced to dress modestly ust to feel safe.
“I take inspiration from my own female experience. Coming to terms with my own mental health, body, and sexuality,” Ashnikko said in an interview with Gurls Talk.
Stifling fashion forward creativity can be harmful to many.. If someone chooses to wear clothing they feel comfortable in, they should not be subject to sexual harassment.
In the music industry, most, if not all, female artists are targeted for their style. Ashnikko and Doja Cat, for example, are constantly harassed for the way they present themselves on stage. To fans, it is a form of empowerment and a safe way to express and reclaim the female body.
The age of unnecessary criticism and sexualization of women needs to be over. It isn’t just suppressive and harmful for celebrities. The normalization of women being harassed simply because they’re famous is equally as insulting to the women outside of the industry. They’ve stood up for themselves. So will we.