House of Commons calls for evidence about misogyny in music in the UK

The Women and Equalities Parliamentary Committee is calling for submissions about misogyny in the music industry.

The Misogyny in Music inquiry was initially announced by the House of Commons Women and Equalities Select Committee last month to look into the scope of the problem within the sector.

The Committee's inquiry will look at the sexism that women encounter in the business, as well as the depiction of women in music and its impact on listeners. The investigation will pay particular attention to harassment during concerts and other live music events.

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This inquiry hopes to bring solid evidence to decision-makers to ensure that the right change can be made to make music a fairer place. They are looking for evidence from women working in the music industry and also from music fans who regularly attend events and listen to music.

An official description of the inquiry states: “In recent years, a number of studies and reports have brought to light the extent to which women working within the music industry experience sexism, including allegations of harassment and coercive control.

"[It] will also look at the representation of women within music and the effect of this on consumers. The inquiry will also focus on harassment at festivals and other live music events.”

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The Committee is after written submissions on the following topics: correlation between misogynistic lyrics and violence against women; what support systems are in place for women in the music industry; how safe women feel at concerts and festivals; the expectations of women in the industry compared to men; and how misogyny and sexist attitudes in music can be tackled by the government.

Explaining why collecting evidence is important, a spokesperson from the Women's and Equalities Select Committee told Mixmag: "Committee inquiries draw on a wide base of evidence from service providers, research papers and surveys, charities, academics and industry representatives among others.

"But committees also need to hear the voices and lived experiences of those who might not otherwise be aware of, or have the platform to contribute to, the report and recommendations published after concluding the inquiry."

Submissions will typically be published online if the Committee accepts them. After that, it will always be accessible to everyone and search engines may be used to find it online. It cannot be modified or deleted off the internet.

The submissions, which can be given anonymously, are published at the Committee's discretion.

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The Chair of the Committee, Caroline Nokes MP, said: “Music is a huge cornerstone of our culture. We must question the effect that constant misogynistic references to women in lyrics has on society.

"We must also address the seemingly commonplace stories of sexist and unfair treatment of artists and professionals within the industry. Our inquiry looks to uncover the full extent of misogyny in music, its broader effects, and ask what we as lawmakers can do.”

The call for written submissions is open until July 17. To find out more about the call and to submit your own - head to the House of Commons website here. There is an option to keep submissions anonymous.

Aneesa Ahmed is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Twitter