The second annual Women Sharing the Spotlight event, hosted by She Is The Music (SITM), celebrated the achievements of multiplatinum singer-songwriter Megan Moroney and music industry titan Sylvia Rhone, while also marking a significant leadership transition for the organization with the appointment of Laura Segura as its new executive director. The event, held at the acclaimed Delilah restaurant in Los Angeles, underscored SITM’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity and advancing opportunities for women across all facets of the music industry.
The atmosphere at Delilah buzzed with an undeniable energy, a sentiment echoed by Laura Segura, who recently assumed the role of executive director for She Is The Music. Surveying the packed venue, Segura observed the palpable enthusiasm that characterized the organization’s second annual gathering dedicated to highlighting women’s contributions. This year’s event specifically recognized Moroney and Rhone for their substantial impact and unwavering dedication to supporting and elevating women within the music landscape.
Alicia Keys, a co-founder of She Is The Music and a global music superstar, set the tone for the evening by emphasizing the core mission of the organization. She articulated that the event served as a platform to acknowledge individuals who not only possess influence but actively use their positions to create pathways for others. Keys drew a powerful distinction between struggling to gain entry into the industry and being welcomed in by those who have already established a presence.
Artist Spotlight: Megan Moroney and Her All-Female Team
Megan Moroney, recognized for her burgeoning success and her commitment to a predominantly female professional team, was a central honoree in the Artist Spotlight segment. Keys lauded Moroney and her team for their groundbreaking achievements, highlighting the rarity of female-led ensembles in the music business. This recognition celebrated Moroney’s ability to lead and inspire in an industry where such representation is still an exception rather than the rule.
Moroney, whose third studio album, Cloud 9, was set to release shortly after the event, expressed her gratitude to She Is The Music. She shared a poignant observation about the subtle, and sometimes overt, messages that can lead women to believe that opportunities at the highest levels are scarce. Moroney countered this notion by asserting that the music industry and artistic creation are not a zero-sum game, and that each woman’s success inherently broadens the possibilities for future generations.
Trailblazer Honor: Sylvia Rhone’s Enduring Legacy
The esteemed Trailblazer honor was bestowed upon Sylvia Rhone, a legendary figure in the music industry and a former chairman and CEO of Epic Records. Jody Gerson, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group and another co-founder of SITM, introduced Rhone, detailing her profound influence on countless women within the industry. Gerson described Rhone as someone who not only secured her own position at the decision-making table but also worked diligently to expand that table for others.
Gerson emphasized Rhone’s relentless efforts to dismantle the glass ceiling and ensure that the path she forged remains accessible and clear for the women who follow in her footsteps. Rhone, accepting the award to a standing ovation, reflected on the collective nature of progress. She described the journey not as a solitary endeavor but as a series of concerted efforts, with women pushing, nudging, reaching back, and encouraging one another to claim their rightful places.
Rhone eloquently stated, "Somewhere along the way, the trail became a road. And now it feels more like a gathering place." This sentiment captured the evolution of women’s influence and collaboration within the music world.
Innovation and Future Outlook
Rhone further elaborated on the resilience and adaptability of women, particularly in the face of challenges. She noted that women often innovate under pressure, a testament to their strength and ingenuity. Looking out at the assembled audience, Rhone expressed a sense of optimism rather than anxiety regarding the future of the music industry.
She conveyed her confidence that the industry is in capable hands, energized by the talent and dedication present. Rhone issued a call to action, urging attendees to continue expanding opportunities, protect the integrity of the industry, and embrace future advancements. Her closing remarks emphasized the importance of generous mentorship, bold negotiation, and wise leadership, all delivered with grace.
Vanguard Honorees and Industry Representation
The Women Sharing the Spotlight event also recognized a new cohort of Vanguard honorees. These individuals represent diverse sectors of the music industry, including record labels, publishing, management, songwriting, and production. Each Vanguard honoree was invited to share the spotlight with a guest, further amplifying the network of support and recognition.
Notable figures spotted among the honorees included Caroline Yim, Ethiopia Habtemariam, Diane Warren, Ty Stiklorius, Michelle Jubelirer, and Danyel Smith. Segura defined the Vanguard honorees as the leaders driving the women’s movement within the music industry, underscoring their pioneering roles.
She Is The Music: A Mission of Empowerment
She Is The Music was founded in 2015 with a clear objective: to increase the number of women working in all aspects of the music industry. The organization strives to create a more equitable and diverse landscape by providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Its initiatives aim to address systemic inequalities and foster a culture of inclusivity.
The organization’s work extends beyond high-profile events, encompassing programs designed to support emerging talent and established professionals alike. By focusing on tangible change, SITM seeks to dismantle barriers that have historically limited women’s access and advancement.
Industry Support and Partnerships
The success of the Women Sharing the Spotlight event was bolstered by the generous support of key sponsors. Spotify EQUAL, Live Nation Women, and TuneCore were among the significant partners who contributed to making the event possible. The Hollywood Reporter served as the exclusive media partner, amplifying the event’s reach and message.
These partnerships highlight a growing recognition within the broader music industry of the importance of gender equity and the value of supporting organizations like She Is The Music. The collective effort underscores a shared commitment to creating a more representative and dynamic future for the music business. The event’s conclusion reinforced the ongoing dialogue and action necessary to ensure that the doors opened by pioneers like Sylvia Rhone remain not just open, but wider than ever before.
