Ladies First

Although music videos are frequently criticized for "sexist" portrayals of women, this book shows that videos in many music genres are frequently vehicles of expression for a variety of women's concerns and issues. Acknowledging the presence of female voices, Robin Roberts looks here at the ways feminist political statements operate in music videos and, surprisingly, even in MTV's much criticized Beavis and Butt-Head. More women are now involved behind the scenes at the executive level in the video industry, and they have recognized the medium's feminist possibilities. Country music performers, for instance, draw on a tradition of sincerity and storytelling to recount women's issues. Rap artists use the self-promotion inherent in their rap vernacular in uplifting women's rights. Female performers expose flaws they perceive in feminine paradigms by deconstructing stereotypical gender roles and, without alienating viewers, use an inviting sense of humor to criticize portrayals of male dominance. With skillful performances and clever lyrics, these artists assert the right of women to be sexual and to express their sexuality. Queen Latifah's "Ladies First", Salt 'n' Pepa's "Shake Your Thang", Martina McBride's "Independence Day", and Julie Brown's "Home, coming Queen's Got a Gun" are among the feminist videos Robin Roberts discusses in documenting how video has moved feminism to the forefront. A video featuring excerpts from MTV performances is included free with every book.