Success beyond numbers: unpacking the different expectations for women in music

In the music world, pressure on women in music, mostly female singers, is constant, relentless, and often unfair. It frequently discourages them from continuing, or even starting, a career. While men can age, change style, take breaks, or be imperfect without jeopardizing their careers, women are expected to be beautiful, high-performing, and flawless at all times. But what happens when they don’t meet these standards?

Beauty Over Talent

One of the most absurd and useless criteria affecting how women are perceived is beauty. Singers like Adele were criticized for years for their appearance, even after she lost weight for health reasons. As if her extraordinary voice came second to the number on the scale. The same happened to Britney Spears, whose career was often overshadowed by her body image rather than her pop culture contributions. Her image became idolized, forgetting she’s a real person with flaws, vulnerabilities, and mental health challenges that made her a target of mockery online. Billie Eilish was criticized for hiding her body under oversized clothing, and Ariana Grande, despite her artistic growth, was judged for being “too thin” or “too short.” These highly talented women are never seen as “enough.” But music is about expression, soul, and creativity, not a beauty pageant. These aren’t models, but women expressing themselves through voice, words, and emotion. The body and appearance should be free to exist, but not be a measure of artistic value.

And if a woman chooses to be sensual or provocative? Even worse. The accusations shift but don’t stop. Sabrina Carpenter was criticized for looking “too sexy” in her videos and performances, as if that automatically meant superficiality or immorality. Lady Gaga was once considered “creepy,” excessive, or mentally unstable. Only years later did the world realize her style was a conscious artistic statement, about freedom and female empowerment. Still, she had to endure years of judgment before being fully recognized.

These women are not just numbers, bodies, or fleeting trends. They are artists and deserve to be evaluated based on their music, message, and impact, not on their outfits, weight, or Spotify ranking.

In the modern industry, numbers rule: streams, views, sold-out shows. They seem to be the only metrics that matter. Yet even here, women face double standards. Camila Cabello, for example, was criticized in 2025 for not selling out certain concerts, as if that defined her career, ignoring context and growth. Katy Perry went from global pop star to being mocked for an alleged “decline,” as if success must be eternal and linear. But songs like Firework still resonate. And Shakira, often criticized for sensual movements, has united cultures and inspired generations.

It’s no secret that when men do certain things in music, they rarely face the same criticism as women. Take Kanye West, for example. In 2024, he packed out the Assago Arena in Milan for a listening party, not a concert. He didn’t sing a single word. Tickets cost between €115 and €207, and people still showed up. Now compare that to Camila Cabello. She actually performed live, sang her heart out, and showed real talent, but was still criticized for not selling out every venue. This isn’t about comparing artists. It’s about the double standard.

Kanye is undeniably talented but he’s a clear example of how men are allowed to do less and still be praised, while women have to do more.

The Huge Social Impact of Women in Music

What’s often forgotten is that many of these harshly judged women have made lasting impacts. Even the so-called “divas” helped redefine what it means to be a woman in music. With contradictions, provocations, and freedom, they’ve shown that it’s possible to be strong, vulnerable, sexy, imperfect, and brave all at once. Thanks to them, beauty standards are being challenged. Mental health, self-love, and humanity are now part of the conversation. Through their lyrics and actions, they promote care, empathy and respect: qualities are more valuable than any chart position.

Will Anything Change?

The industry will only change when we change as an audience, as critics, and as a culture. We must learn to listen without judgment. Trends fade, and reels don’t last long. But true talent, the ability to adapt, evolve and keep creating, can’t be measured in numbers.

Women are expected to prove twice as much for half the recognition. Despite sacrifices and talent, they’re still not seen as “enough.” But music is soul and expression. This isn’t a runway. We’re talking about women who express their inner world. Bodies should exist freely, not define artistic worth. The key is being you and not caring!

We write about them, tell their stories and support them because, beyond the memes, we want to see more women conquering Spotify, Billboard, and winning Grammy after Grammy.