CNN
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Shania Twain stands up for others in country music.
The legendary star of the genre used his acceptance speech for the Equal Play Award at Sunday’s CMT Awards to call for more equity and diversity in the country music industry.
“When I wrote the line ‘Man, I feel like a woman,’ I honestly didn’t know at the time that it would become the undercurrent of a decades-long career,” he said. she declared, referring to one of her biggest hits. “It’s amazing how one statement can empower so many people.”
The phrase, Twain said, “has been adopted by an array of fantastic communities all over the world and has become a real avenue of power…which brings me so much joy.”
“I believe in all-inclusive country music. We are family,” Twain said. “It is a genre of music with a rich history that has elevated and nourished my own career as a songwriter, performer and recording artist since I was a child. Currently, the industry standard really doesn’t do this any favors.
Twain, who received the award from rapper Megan Thee Stallion, praised some of the diverse artists she’s highlighting on her “Queen of Me” tour this year, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Mickey Guyton and others.
“I will continue to do my best as a pioneer,” Twain said. “Together, let’s ensure that all our fellow artists can perform on an equal footing, regardless of gender, age or race. »
She also performed cappella with the African-American singing group The BoykinZ, while presenting an award on stage. Twain connected with the group, who are sisters and rising country stars, after Kelly Clarkson surprised them recently by bringing Twain to meet them during an episode of Clarkson’s daytime talk show.