The music industry has indeed evolved since the early 1900s. In fact, some say that the music industry has lost its way. When labels and music executives became popularized, it became a competition of who could find the best talent. During the ’80s and ’90s, women in music became hot commodities for music labels looking for the “next big thing.”
Becoming the next big thing required many things from artists, including having an excellent stage presence and delivering high-level performances. As the music industry progresses, the performance factor has had less emphasis. In the ’90s and 2000s, being a pop singer who couldn’t dance or perform was unheard of.
However, being a dancer and singer with stamina is a rare talent in modern times. Singers who don’t sing over recorded vocals, perform dance breaks, and belt perfectly pitched notes are a dying breed. Nevertheless, within the 2020s, women in music have returned from the School of Beyoncé and are ready to bring back stage presence and high-energy performances.
Stars like SZA and Teyana Taylor have found their niches and curated performances that speak to their brand of music. Whether it’s a fully choreographed show or an intimate performance highlighting the singer’s vocals, women in music have prioritized upping the performance factor for their fans.
Here are four women in music that have reintroduced the art of crafting epic stage performances.
1. Victoria Monét
Grammy-winning singer Victoria Monét took 2023 by storm with her studio album, “Jaguar II.” After releasing her album, Monét toured the country performing her discography. As a result of social media, fans became aware of her ability to present strong performances.
With just two background dancers, the singer performed dance routines while singing. She did not miss a beat while maintaining the key and her vocal stamina. Her performance began to circulate online, and the fans loved it. Because of this, fans were highly disappointed to hear that MTV’s Video Music Awards did not invite Monét to perform in 2023. However, Monét’s fanbase grows and recognizes her talents as a performer.
2. Chloe Bailey
Since debuting with her sister in 2017, Chloe Bailey has been a ferocious performer. Unfortunately, her passion for performance has made her a target for harsh criticism. After performing Nina Simone’s 1965 hit song, “Feeling Good,” at a televised Juneteenth celebration, viewers felt the performance may have been overtly sexy. Fans defended her, stating that Bailey was just a fierce performer.
Nina Simone’s granddaughter, RéAnna Simone Kelly, also defended the “Treat Me” singer.
In a now-private tweet, Kelly stated, “But what y’all don’t understand is that grandma was a free-spirited woman herself!! She would’ve loved that performance as much as I do! Relax. Chloe killed it.”
She continued: “She was a sexual woman, and she expressed that. Educate yourselves !! If grandma could, she probably would’ve done that performance herself.”
With a stamp of approval from Simone’s camp, Bailey pushed forward and continued to slay stage performances. Her set at the 2021 MTV VMAs was highly acclaimed, and she sold out several dates on her 2023 “In Pieces” tour.
As a mentee of Beyoncé, Bailey has exemplified the makings of an excellent performer. Her vocal range and ability are intact while she dances full routines. She is undoubtedly a woman honoring the standards of pop and R&B artists.
3. Tyla
Although she debuted in 2023, Tyla has already taken the music industry by storm. After her song “Water” and the accompanying music video went viral, Tyla threw water on every stage she touched — literally. The singer is an excellent example of establishing your brand. Adding actual water to the dance gave audiences something to try. Additionally, she was able to teach the dance when she performed on televised programs.
Tyla is a budding star who has demonstrated her abilities to rise to pop stardom. Her South African culture and unique style are evident in her performances. In addition, Tyla maintains her versatile performance style while also flawlessly executing choreography and tight vocals.
4. Normani
As a former member of Fifth Harmony, Normani rose to fame in 2013. After much success with the group, Normani branched out as a solo act in 2017. She has released several singles, including “Love Lies” (featuring Khalid) and “Waves” (featuring 6lack). Most notably, she released her hit singles “Motivation” and “Wild Side” (featuring Cardi B).
After the release of “Wild Side” and “Motivation” and the coinciding music videos, fans began to praise Normani’s skills. Although she had been successful with Fifth Harmony, the group’s environment didn’t allow Normani to showcase her abilities fully.
As a true dancer, Normani has been able to perform in ways that are considered a thing of the past. She receives complex choreography with intricate details and executes them with ease. In addition, Normani does this while singing and maintaining an impeccable stage presence.
How do you feel about women in music today? Let us know in the comments below.
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