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Mia Hepworth

The Price of a Record Deal: Gendered Expectations in the Music Industry

Biography

Mia Hepworth is a graduating student from the Professional Communications program at Toronto Metropolitan University. Passionate about the arts and social justice, Mia is dedicated to using communication as a tool for advocacy and change. With a strong interest in the music industry, she aims to contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable spaces for artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Through her research project for Signify, she strives to amplify diverse voices and challenge industry barriers.

Details of Project

This study explores the barriers women of color face when negotiating record deals in the music industry. Using a qualitative approach, the research analyzes publicly available interviews, legal cases, and media coverage to identify recurring themes such as power imbalances, stereotyping, and limited access to resources. The findings reveal that gendered and racialized biases make a big impact on negotiation outcomes, often restricting creative and financial control for female minority artists. Despite industry initiatives aimed at promoting equity, systemic inequalities still exist. This research highlights the need for policy reforms and structural changes to create a more inclusive and fair music industry.

Lightning talk

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