Miranda Lambert has expressed the need for greater recognition for her efforts in securing a place in the country music industry. Known for hits like The House That Built Me, Lambert shared her thoughts on how the industry has evolved since she began to gain popularity as one of the few notable female artists in the genre.
During a Popcast episode, Lambert recalled the early 2000s when the expectation was to present oneself as sexy and attractive. She resisted conforming to this stereotype, stating, “I wanted to make sure that it didn’t get lost in translation.” Her distinct image as a “gun-totin’ redneck” set her apart from others in the industry.
Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
Lambert noted that both she and Carrie Underwood fought hard to cement their places in country music. Reflecting on the 2010 era, she remarked on the scarcity of female artists, explaining, “Carrie Underwood and I made it through a solid at least seven years of only male artists in country music.” This imbalance in the industry prompted Lambert to acknowledge the strides made in recent years toward greater inclusivity.
“It’s gotten so much better, and I’m so thankful that there’s room for a crowd now.”
Lambert admitted that country music feels more balanced now compared to earlier years. She credited changes in how music is consumed for opening opportunities for diverse artists. Lambert humorously suggested that she and Underwood deserve recognition for persevering through a challenging period.
Shared Experiences and Growth
The journey had its highlights. Lambert recently attended Underwood’s show, and Underwood reciprocated by attending Lambert’s concert. These events underscored the bond between the artists, who were among a small group of women in country music at the time. Lambert emphasized, “There were only two girls for so long. We weren’t playing the same shows ever.”
Lambert expressed gratitude for the evolving landscape of country music, which now accommodates a diverse range of voices and messages. She believes music fans have more options than before, allowing them to hear a variety of perspectives, even if not all resonate.
Contact reporter Tracy Wright for more insights at [email protected].
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