Challenging the Norm for Women in Music and Creative Spaces
Grace Pettis discusses her musical journey, exploring Southern influences, the emotional process behind her album Down To The Letter, the importance of collaboration, and the impact of live performances.
In an interview, Grace Pettis shared her journey as a contemporary musician, revealing the intricate tapestry of influences that shape her sound. Raised in the deep South, her upbringing in Atlanta and rural Alabama laid the foundation for her musical identity. The vibrant R&B, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and gospel scenes of Atlanta, combined with the folk, mountain gospel, country, and bluegrass traditions of Alabama, created a rich backdrop for her artistry. Her formative years in Austin, Texas, further expanded her musical palette, introducing her to Texas country, folk, blues, and the eclectic indie and pop sounds that thrive in that city. This diverse musical upbringing is evident in her work, where the warmth of folk, the grit of Americana, and the soul-stirring tones of gospel converge, creating a sound that is both deeply rooted and refreshingly original.
Pettis’s upcoming album, Down To The Letter, is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and self-reclamation. The process of writing these deeply personal songs was not a conscious choice but rather a compulsion that emerged during a tumultuous period in her life. Following her separation and divorce, she found herself writing 27 songs, a reflection of the emotional turmoil she was experiencing. With the encouragement of her therapist, she recorded fourteen of these songs, ultimately releasing twelve on the album. Among them are previously written tracks like “When Nobody’s Watching” and “Joy,” which seamlessly fit the album’s narrative and enhance its emotional depth.
“Growing up, many of my favorite albums featured entirely male creative credits.”
“Only 6.5% of producers credited in 2023 were women, which is actually a significant increase from the last few years, however abysmally low that number still is.”
Through her music, Pettis hopes to resonate with listeners who are navigating their own painful breakups and divorces. She aims to provide a sense of validation and understanding, particularly for those who love individuals struggling with addiction. The isolation and confusion that often accompany such experiences can be overwhelming, and Pettis’s music serves as a reminder that they are not alone. By sharing her story, she fosters a sense of community and connection among those who may feel marginalized by their circumstances.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Pettis’s artistic journey. She recognizes that her most significant growth and creativity have stemmed from working alongside other musicians rather than competing against them. This collaborative spirit is evident in her approach to songwriting, where she actively seeks out opportunities to connect with artists who bring different perspectives and skills to the table. Notably, her work with Grammy-nominated artists like Ruthie Foster has been particularly influential, allowing her to learn from her heroes and expand her creative horizons.
“Women and non-binary folks are at least half of the population in this country. When we’re not writing the songs, on stage performing the music, in the studio recording the albums, or behind the desk signing the artists, the result is a culture of music that doesn’t reflect the human experience in this country.”
Pettis’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond her own projects. Her debut album on MPress Records, Working Woman, featured an all-female and non-binary band and creative team, a decision motivated by her desire to challenge the male-dominated landscape of the music industry. Growing up, she noticed the lack of female representation in the credits of her favorite albums, which often featured entirely male creative teams. This realization fueled her determination to create a more inclusive environment in music, where women and non-binary individuals can share their unique perspectives and experiences.
The statistics surrounding gender representation in the music industry are stark. In 2023, only 6.5% of producers credited were women, a figure that, while an improvement from previous years, still highlights the significant underrepresentation of women in key roles. Pettis emphasizes that women and non-binary individuals make up at least half of the population, and their absence in the creative process results in a music culture that fails to reflect the diverse human experience. She draws parallels to other industries that have made strides toward gender equality, asserting that if women can excel in fields like medicine and aviation, they should also be trusted to contribute to the music industry.
Live performances hold a special place in Pettis’s heart. She thrives on the energy of a captivated audience, finding inspiration in their emotional responses to her music. The connection she forges with her listeners during live shows is a vital part of her artistic expression. When the audience is engaged, it fuels her performance, creating a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall experience. Conversely, when the connection falters, it can be challenging for her to fully immerse herself in the music.
Grace Pettis’s journey as a musician is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in the arts. Through her music, she not only shares her personal experiences but also amplifies the voices of those who have been marginalized. Her dedication to collaboration and inclusivity is reshaping the landscape of contemporary music, paving the way for a more diverse and authentic artistic expression. As she continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, Pettis remains a vital force in the music industry, inspiring others to embrace their own stories and find strength in vulnerability.
