What?

This work discovers the underlying reasons of the gender representation gap in the Swiss popular music industry and points to possible ways to transform this situation. Upon researching, four themes emerged that influence the gender imbalance in the music industry; social structures, lack of awareness and incentive to change, difficulties entering a network and the economic incentive. The intervention proposition transforms the issue by creating a safe space for artists› self-development. The research and system map lays the findings out accordingly.

Why?

Music is a vital art form in our culture. However, the Swiss popular music sector does not reflect our society, as there is a gender imbalance biased towards male musicians. Furthermore, people who do not conform to gender norms and roles suffer from unfair treatment in the form of underrepresentation, harsh criticism or gender pay gap. These social norms and roles limit the individual’s freedom in self-expression and manifest in social structures, further upholding these gender norms.

How?

With a human-centred and evidence based design approach, this thesis points to possible remediations to transform this situation. The research includes interviews with the affected group, music businesses and experts, as well as co-design and co-iteration sessions. By clustering research findings, underlying causes for the issue are located to design an optimal intervention concept.

For Whom?

This work positions itself as part of a current debate on gender equality in society. It raises awareness on gender norms in the music industry to all readers who see themselves as part of the affected group, but also to other members of the music industry and the audience.

Wxmen in Music Switzerland (Spotify Playlist)

Women Music Producers Fighting for Equality (YouTube)

Madonna Woman of The Year Full Speech | Billboard Women in Music 2016 (YouTube)