What Are the Key Takeaways from the Film?

Sarah McLachlan's Lilith Fair revolutionised the music industry by proving that female artists could sell tickets and attract diverse audiences. This all-women festival, which ran from 1997 to 1999, is now the subject of a documentary titled "Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery — The Untold Story." This film, directed by Ally Pankiw, features archival footage and interviews with artists like McLachlan, Sheryl Crow, and Erykah Badu, highlighting the festival's impact on music and culture while addressing the challenges it faced.

Last updated: 21 September 2023 (BST)

• Lilith Fair showcased an all-female lineup, challenging industry norms.
• The festival faced resistance from both promoters and female artists initially.
• It provided a safe space for women, including mothers and diverse genres.
• Despite its success, Lilith Fair encountered criticism, particularly regarding diversity.
• The festival influenced how female artists were treated in the music industry.

The Origins of Lilith Fair

In the early 1990s, the music industry was largely male-dominated, which posed significant hurdles for female artists. Sarah McLachlan envisioned Lilith Fair as a way to challenge these norms by featuring an all-female lineup, thereby proving that women could draw crowds and sell tickets. This was a time when radio stations were reluctant to play songs by female artists back-to-back, fearing audience backlash, and promoters were hesitant to book multiple women on the same bill.

McLachlan and her contemporaries, including artists like Jewel, Sheryl Crow, and Liz Phair, faced pressures not only from the industry but also from societal expectations regarding their appearance and behaviour. "If you play too many female acts, the hard-to-soft balance will be upset," one radio programme manager remarked, reflecting the industry's dismissive attitude towards women in music.

Initial Hesitations and Challenges

When McLachlan first proposed the idea of an all-female concert, she encountered scepticism from both promoters and potential performers. Many female artists were initially uncertain about participating, fearing they would be pigeonholed or that the concept might not succeed. Suzanne Vega expressed her initial reservations, stating, "Why is [Sarah] making this all-female show?" However, after understanding the project's purpose, she became enthusiastic about joining.

Even securing sponsorships was a struggle. McLachlan's team encountered reluctance from businesses that were primarily focused on a male audience, demonstrating the broader cultural challenges the festival faced. However, the commitment to showcasing women artists remained steadfast, and the first Lilith Fair was launched in 1996.

Creating a Collaborative Atmosphere

One of the standout features of Lilith Fair was its collaborative spirit. The Indigo Girls, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, played a pivotal role in fostering this environment. Their approach encouraged other artists to take the stage together, resulting in memorable performances that showcased the camaraderie among female musicians. As McLachlan noted, the Indigo Girls helped to create a welcoming atmosphere, inviting headliners to join them on stage for collaborative performances.

This spirit of collaboration was a stark contrast to the competitive nature often found in the music industry. The festival became a platform where artists supported one another rather than competing for attention, which contributed significantly to its success.

The Grammy Awards and Industry Recognition

The success of Lilith Fair culminated in recognition at the Grammy Awards in 1998, where several artists associated with the festival received nominations. However, the experience was bittersweet. McLachlan, Paula Cole, and Shawn Colvin were grouped together for a medley performance, which they felt was a token gesture. As McLachlan recalled, "Every single song that was nominated for Record of the Year should have had their own spot." This incident highlighted ongoing issues of representation and treatment of female artists in the industry.

Addressing Diversity and Criticism

Despite its groundbreaking nature, Lilith Fair faced criticism for its lack of racial diversity. The festival was sometimes referred to as "Lily-white Fair," prompting McLachlan to expand the lineup to include artists from different genres and backgrounds, such as Erykah Badu and Missy Elliott. This diversification not only broadened the audience but also enriched the festival's offerings, exposing attendees to a wider range of musical styles.

Critics of the festival often included women, with some expressing disdain for the concept of an all-female event. Comedian Sandra Bernhard, who initially mocked the festival, was invited to perform and subsequently gained a deeper understanding of its purpose. This openness to criticism and willingness to engage with detractors demonstrated the festival's commitment to inclusivity and dialogue.

A Safe Space for Artists

Lilith Fair provided a unique space for female artists, many of whom were navigating the challenges of motherhood alongside their careers. The festival allowed performers to bring their children, creating a supportive environment that acknowledged the realities of balancing professional and personal lives. As Erykah Badu noted, the festival catered to the emotional and practical needs of female artists, reinforcing the idea that motherhood and artistry could coexist harmoniously.

The Legacy of Lilith Fair

Although Lilith Fair ended in 1999, its legacy continues to resonate within the music industry. The festival not only changed how female artists were perceived but also inspired a new generation of women to carve their own paths in the industry. Following Lilith Fair, other female-led festivals emerged, demonstrating the lasting impact of McLachlan's vision.

As Sheryl Crow reflected, the festival proved that "this can exist," encouraging women to create their own platforms and continue the work of breaking down barriers in the music industry. The documentary "Building a Mystery" serves as a timely reminder of Lilith Fair's significance and its role in empowering female artists.

FAQs

What was Lilith Fair?

Lilith Fair was an all-female music festival founded by Sarah McLachlan in the late 1990s, aimed at showcasing female artists and challenging industry norms.

When did Lilith Fair take place?

Lilith Fair ran for three summers from 1997 to 1999, with initial experimental dates in 1996.

Who were some of the notable performers at Lilith Fair?

Notable performers included Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow, Erykah Badu, Jewel, and the Indigo Girls, among others.

What impact did Lilith Fair have on the music industry?

Lilith Fair shifted perceptions of female artists, leading to increased opportunities and representation in the music industry.

Is there a documentary about Lilith Fair?

Yes, "Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery — The Untold Story" is a documentary that features archival footage and interviews, exploring the festival's history and impact.

As we reflect on the legacy of Lilith Fair, it's essential to recognise its transformative role in the music industry. The festival not only paved the way for female artists but also created a cultural shift that continues to inspire today. How can we further support and uplift diverse voices in the music industry? #LilithFair #WomenInMusic #FestivalHistory