In the wake of the Diddy affair, John Legend's manager published an article in which she asserted that ” too often women are unsafe “.
In response to the numerous accusations of sexual violence against Sean Combs, John Legend's manager wrote an article detailing his experience in the music industry ” toxic » and explaining how things need to change.
Ty Stiklorius, who has worked in the music industry for 20 years, begins his article in the New York Times recounting how, as a recent college graduate, she found herself at a yacht party hosted by P. Diddy. There she was guided to a room where “ a man who appeared to be an associate of the party host » closed the door behind him.
“ Maybe nervously babbling “My brother is on this boat and he's probably looking for me” convinced him to let me go.writes Ms. Stiklorius. I still don't know who he was or if he had any connection to Mr. Combs, as seemed to be the case. But I know now, after 20 years in the music industry, that what happened that night was not an aberration. It was an indicator of a pervasive culture in the music industry that actively encouraged sexual misconduct and exploited the lives and bodies of those hoping to succeed in the industry. This toxic situation has been able to flourish because power has been concentrated in the hands of kingmakers: wealthy men who almost always control all the doors to success and who can, without consequence, use their power to abuse young women and young men. Too often, women are not safe in recording studios, tour buses, dressing rooms or offices. This isn't a bug in the music business, it's a major feature. »
However, she added that there was hope for change, as ” exploiters » have seen their power diminish as record labels stagger in the streaming era. “ The economic model is collapsing. All of this means we have an opportunity to turn the page on this archaic, sometimes predatory business model, in which it was all too common to ignore, protect or elevate predators and their accomplices. »
Ms. Stiklorius added that “ more representation in positions of power and minimization of use » Confidentiality agreements will help resolve the problem.
“ Whether it's labels, studios, management, publishing or radio, those who once chose the next hot talent and shaped public taste in their favor have less power than previously. They perhaps let young artists think that they hold the keys to success, but the barriers are changing. »
