Nigerian singer Fave has spoken about what she believes makes it harder for female artistes to succeed in the music industry, saying women are often judged more by their physical appearance than their musical talent.
The singer said female musicians frequently face scrutiny over their bodies, clothing and physical attractiveness, with public attention sometimes shifting from their music to how they are perceived sexually.
Key Highlights
- Fave says it is harder for female artistes to “blow” in the music industry.
The singer says women are often judged by their appearance and clothing.
She argues that female artistes face pressure to meet certain beauty standards.
Fave says male artistes are not subjected to the same level of scrutiny over their appearance.
She also praised the performance abilities of female artistes.
Fave on why female artistes face more scrutiny
Speaking on the Afropolitan Podcast, Fave said female musicians are often assessed not only on their musical ability but also on their physical appearance, fashion choices and perceived attractiveness.
According to the singer, this can make it difficult for female artistes to receive attention primarily for their artistic abilities.
“It’s harder for female artists to blow. Female artists aren’t measured by talent but by what they wear. If your tummy isn’t flat… it’s never really about the music; it’s more about people’s sexual desires or their fantasies about you,” she said.
Fave argued that female artistes can face pressure to conform to particular beauty and fashion standards before audiences pay sufficient attention to their music.
Singer criticises focus on appearance
The singer said discussions about female musicians can sometimes centre more on how decently they are dressed than on their artistic abilities.
“And I think that right there is a problem, because it becomes more about how decently you are dressed before people listen to you,” Fave added.
She suggested that the focus on appearance could overshadow the work and talent of women trying to establish themselves in the music industry.
Fave compares treatment of male and female artistes
Fave also compared the treatment of female artistes with that of their male counterparts.
According to her, male musicians generally do not face the same level of scrutiny regarding their physical appearance.
“But when it comes to men, they aren’t held to that same standard,” she said.
The singer further praised the performance abilities of female artistes, saying women often deliver stronger performances on stage.
“When it comes to performances, female artists perform better,” Fave stated.
Fave’s comments spark conversation
Fave’s remarks have contributed to a broader conversation about the pressures female musicians face in an industry where music, image, fashion and public perception are closely connected.
Her comments highlight her view that female artistes should be assessed more on their musical abilities and performances rather than primarily on their physical appearance.
