In her essay “You’ve Got the Wrong Song: Nashville and Country Music Feminism,” author Claire Miye Stanford explores the gender dynamics within the country music industry, while also showing the efforts of the female artists who challenge these gender norms. Stanford analysis reveals the feminist themes present in their work and the persistent struggles that female artists face. Stanford effectively demonstrates how Dolly Parton and other female artists challenge traditional gender roles and resilience in their music. Through detailed examples, she illustrates both the progress that has been made and the ongoing struggles in the country music industry. The essay offers an encompassing view of the intersection of gender and music in Nashville. Stanford analysis is thorough and well-supported by specific …show more content…
Stanford states in her essay, “Whether these things that “you don’t understand” are cheating, boozing, gambling, or other unsavory activities is not entirely clear, but still, Wynette counsels the listener to stand by him “cause after all, he's just a man”; in other words, he can’t help it, it’s in his nature to mistreat you.” (Stanford 417). By comparing these different eras and messages within country music, Stanford underscores the shift of female representation in the genre. Although she argues that while there has been a bit of progress, she contends that there is still much work to be done in the industry that promotes gender equality. It is mainly common for women to expect gender roles and expectations for women in country music. Not only in country music but as well in society, women are setting certain expectations that men aren’t.“ Titled “Wrong Song,” the song is a fiery duet, addressed to a lying, cheating man, and in classic Rayna/Juliette fashion, it stands up for the woman, saying she won’t stand for that" (Stanford