Women In Music Face Objectification And Unwanted Advances - Lami Phillips And Vania Ice

Nigerian artiste Lami Phillips and Burundian singer Vania Ice have opened up on the challenges women continue to face in Africa’s music industry, saying female artistes are often judged more on their appearance than their work.

Speaking on The Big Convo on 3Music TV’s Culture Daily, Lami Phillips said women in music constantly face objectification and often lose opportunities when they refuse to meet personal expectations unrelated to their talent.

She said female artistes are regularly forced to think about issues that male musicians rarely encounter, including scrutiny over clothing, appearance and unwanted advances during business interactions.

Lami Phillips described balancing artistic expression with public expectations as an ongoing struggle, saying many women face pressure either to present themselves in a certain way or risk missing industry opportunities.

Vania Ice said female musicians in Burundi face similar experiences despite operating in a much smaller music industry.

She recalled attending an international music programme alongside a male artiste, where both had access to the same workshops and recording sessions.

However, she said public discussion focused on questioning how she secured opportunities rather than recognising her work.

The singer also spoke about choosing music over a career in mechanical engineering after completing her degree in China.

She said her family initially opposed the decision and expected her to pursue engineering, but her mother eventually supported her choice despite criticism from relatives.

Both artistes encouraged women to continue developing their skills and education alongside their music careers, arguing that professional competence and strong character remain essential for long-term success in the industry.