Pop Not Porn

Yesterday everywhere I turned it seemed netmums was on the TV or radio. Usually as I am not a parent this isn't something that would interest me but the subject they were plugging is something that isn't just about parents. 'Pop Not Porn' the representation of women in music.

I currently work for a not for profit record label and we feel very strongly about the way women are represented and the effects it can have on how people see women or even more importantly how women see themselves. I am aware that this is also a rising issue for men and that they constantly see abs and muscles all over the place, so are also faced with  body image issues but if a man takes off his clothes and dances provocatively it doesn't make the paper for weeks.


This is exactly the case with the recently Miley Cyrus events. Everyone seems to have an opinion on her behaviour at the awards. I read an article recently that I think I shared on my Facebook like page that made a very valid point. Everyone seems so bothered about Miley's over sexulisation but nobody blinked an eye about the older man that was grinding behind her and singing about 'blurred lines' and borderline rape. Instead society is too wrapped up in slut shaming and talking about how disgusting Miley is for trying to get attention by acting 'slutty'. I am first to admit I have a battle of opinions here I believe every woman has the right to wear what she likes and use her body as she wishes but I also think it is the duty of celebrities out there to act as a role model for women all over the world. I  think Miley is growing up and experimenting not wanted to be the clean cut Disney girl anymore and wanting the world to see her as a grown sexual being. It is a stage all women go through while they are exploring themselves and learning who they are but unfortunately for Miley she lives and breaths an industry that can lead her in the wrong direction.

The music industry is full of half naked women thrusting on men and gyrating to be pleasing to the males of the world that may buy their records. How much of that is the woman's choice? It is a debate that can go in all directions. If the woman in question wants to do that and she is actively making the choice then I am cool with that. We are human we come with all different kinds of motivation. Although I am sceptical how much of this is a record industry pushing them to be sexier, thinner and more desirable. We only have to turn on x factor and watch the wannabe stars preened and shedding weight to become more pleasing to the public. There is no question that sex sells but also I really think listeners and viewers out there are not being expose to enough choice and variety. Women can be amazing role models without having to shake their ass. Keep an eye on my A-Z of inspirational women to learn about some of the amazing women out there who are already making a difference.

If we keep presenting society with just one type of role model then we will keep living in a world where it is cool to tell a woman she should wear pants that stop her getting raped rather than teaching everyone not to rape. I honestly couldn't believe my eyes when I read this article about the invention  of anti rape underwear for women. Why should women have to wear anything to protect themselves from rape? In no way am I saying that rape is down to Rhianna being half naked but more down to the way the record industries are teaching men to look at and treat women. If you are going to be half naked then you really need to present yourself well in other areas so that the women who walk the streets the other day do not get treated like objects.

So the record company I am a part of wants to tackle this issue. Let me know what you think about how women are represented in music and how it can be improved to be more positive helping put an end to slut shaming we welcome your opinions :)




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