According to artist Ellie Goulding, the MeToo movement has brought positive changes to the music industry, creating a safer environment for artists. During an interview with Radio 4, Goulding expressed her belief that the industry now offers better protection for younger artists compared to when she started her career in 2010. She also mentioned feeling discomfort when working in studios with male producers.
Goulding stated, I definitely think the landscape has changed a bit, especially since the MeToo movement. I think that was really, really important for people to keep speaking out about their individual stories, because I know a lot was happening and just wasn’t being talked about. I don’t think a lot of people felt comfortable to talk about their personal studio experiences.
When asked whether she herself had felt vulnerable in recording studios, Goulding replied, I had experiences which, in my head, I sort of normalized and thought, ‘maybe this is just a thing.’ You know, when you go into a studio and afterwards the producer asks if you want to go for a drink. And I’m quite a polite person, I don’t like letting people down. I don’t like disappointing people. So I was like, ‘Yeah, sure, absolutely, go for a drink.’ And then it sort of somehow becomes like a romantic thing when it shouldn’t.
She further explained, You don’t want it to be a romantic thing, but it’s like there was always a slight feeling of discomfort when you walked into a studio and it was just one or two men writing or producing. And I had to try and figure out whether it was just me, something going on in my own head. But then hearing so many other stories, similar stories from other female musicians and singers, I realized that I wasn’t alone in it at all. It wasn’t just me, being particularly friendly.
The MeToo movement gained global attention in October 2017 when numerous women came forward with allegations of sexual abuse against Harvey Weinstein, who was subsequently convicted and imprisoned for rape and sexual assault in 2020. This case sparked a reckoning in the entertainment industry, with more women allegedly sharing their own experiences involving other influential male figures.
Goulding’s perspective sheds light on the positive impact of the MeToo movement in the music industry, acknowledging that it has encouraged individuals to speak out and created a safer space for artists. The openness about personal experiences and the increased recognition of uncomfortable dynamics within the industry serve as steps forward in fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment for everyone.
