Women In Music: Victoria Kimani speaks on challenges and milestones in the industry

Kenyan Female artist Victoria Kimani has today weighed in on matters Women in Music.

Women have to work twice as hard to make it in the industry and despite the challenges, Kimani is among the women who stand counted to be making milestones in the industry.

Victoria Kimani has today had a Q and A session organized by Sayfty.com and she shared her thoughts and words of wisdom in regard to women in music.

Have a look

What do you think makes it harder for women to thrive in the entertainment industry?

This may sound crazy, but males just have to be males and they become female heart throbs and capture that female fanbase simply because they are serenading and sometimes semi attractive men … some female fans just want to see guys

Many times you will see a lineup of 10 males performing and 1-2 females on the same bill …. pushing the idea that there can only be “one girl in the palace” …. is pathetic

Is age discrimination a big issue for women in the music industry?

I have seen it, but I think it applies to men as well especially in the Western world where they want to get artists started at 16, 17 so they can make more money off them for 10+ years on top of their current age …

It’s not the norm to see “Women in Charge” in high profile music shows. Why is that the case?

That’s a great question! I honestly have no idea, Perhaps some women are more comfortable taking on assistant positions, or perhaps there are women in charge at these shows but don’t allow their presence to be known.

Women with something to say and something great to offer are not acceptable commercially unless they “sex it up” or look like a supermodel. What can be done about it?

I think now thanks to social media, people are a lot more accepting of lifestyles and body shapes, they are beginning to open their minds up and bully less, but generally, Ive heard that your male fanbase has to visualize having sex with you.

It’s true that social media has created safe spaces to have these conversation & raise awareness. But it sounds like we have a long way to go if without objectification success cannot be guaranteed!

Social media has become a little dangerous now because just how we are here to uplift women, some are here to destroy…nevertheless we should still speak

Do women receive equal pay for equal work in the music industry? If no, why not?

Many times no… especially for the up and coming ladies…. many people in different societies view women performers as a second or last option or filler… so their negotiating power is already stifled before they get to the paperwork

How can young artists address the rampant exploitation by promoters and club owners in the music industry?

After a certain point …. Stop allowing them to convince you that performing for little or nothing is an “opportunity” …and be unafraid to speak up when you feel you are being treated wrongly.

Victoria, how do you use your music to highlight & raise awareness on the real day-to-day issues people are dealing with in developing countries?

Creatively, I put these lyrics in my music to let girls know that I can relate to them on a personal level …. also I’m a very vocal advocate for girls!! Sometimes just talking to one another and relating is healing

Is it important for women to support each other in music?

This is very important!! It literally determines the next generation of female artists …. why make it harder … when it can actually be easier ???

It’s very important! Unfortunately… perhaps due to few opportunities for women… some women are afraid to support other women out of fear that they will “take their spot” a horrible mindset