In the Dutch music industry, a prevailing gender gap continues to favor men over women, as per data from BumaStemra, the performing rights society. Female songwriters, on average, earn only a third of the income received by their male counterparts. Despite a slight increase of 3% over the past eight years, women constitute merely 16% of all professional musicians, indicating a significant underrepresentation in the industry.
While there has been a 70% rise in the average earnings of the top 100 female earners, men still enjoy an income three times higher on average. Notably, even when a female artist like Roxy Dekker achieved success with her hit “Sugardaddy,” the song credits listed two male contributors. Moreover, a survey by Movisie revealed that many female musicians have encountered instances of sexual harassment, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in the music sector.
Recognizing the need for change, BumaStemra has launched the Rise Up diversity program to empower women in the music industry. This initiative aims to enhance networking opportunities for women, showcase female role models, and conduct writing camps tailored for women. Marcel Gelauff, the director of BumaStemra, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in music, stating that the industry should reflect the diversity of society to capture a wide range of stories, perspectives, and creativity.
Efforts to address gender inequality in the music industry are crucial not only to ensure fair representation but also to foster a more inclusive and vibrant creative landscape. By promoting gender diversity and providing support to female musicians, the industry can harness the full potential of talent from all backgrounds, enriching the cultural tapestry of Dutch music.