Sammy Stein - Fabulous Female Musicians

Sammy Stein has been researching and writing about women in jazz for 6 years now, as well as writing books about the history of jazz and reviewing albums. The quality of this book shows her impressive ability to network and identify people with something important to say.  She collects in depth interviews with 21 women who have successful music careers; not all are household names but listening reveals that they're all outstanding creators; most are composers and bandleaders as well as players and many also teach at a high level. One of the book's strengths lies in its global representation, bringing together musicians from different cultures and backgrounds, highlighting the universal nature of music and its ability to transcend borders.

Stein is upbeat about the progress towards more equitable appreciation of women musicians but pull no punches in showing that things are still far from ideal. We probably all notice that jazz audiences and musicians tend to be dis-proportionately male - as well as tending towards an older demographic, none of which can be good for the future of the music.

It's striking how many of the woman musicians interviewed still rely on bands which have mostly male members. There are exceptions such as Ellen Rowe who recently was recording with an all-woman band. Then other musicians like Amina Figarova take the view that they've never experienced discrimination amongst musicians and choose to work with an all-male band because they are the best players she can find.

Other interviews provide plenty of examples of prejudice and unsavoury attitudes towards women in jazz. “I’ve been in a situation where I’ve asked a promoter at a club if I could have a gig with my own band and been told, ‘Give us a kiss and I’ll think about it.’” says Zoe Rahman. For Charu Suri: "Almost every single gig I’ve been on, there’s been some sort of comment about my looks and my beauty, and sometimes I’ll get a throwaway comment about my music." A consistent theme is the need to be tough; "I would rather be a diva than a pushover" says China Moses. Evie Asio advises: “Rejection is not a possibility; it’s an inevitability, so celebrate your wins and learn from your losses.”

The artists interviewed offer advice and valuable insights for those seeking to embark on their own musical journeys, whatever their gender. "Music is a community, and you need to be active in that community. Go to all your friends’ shows and bring people. Follow other musicians online, contribute to their efforts, and go to hear music any chance you get! Be the friend you wish you had!" says Leni Stern. It sounds obvious but so many jazzers still forget to do these basic things.

All the musicians are optimistic about the future but recognise the huge challenges in building a career. For example, Jamie Baum observes "intellectual property rights seems to no longer exist, and it’s difficult to predict.... what sources of steady income will be available to most musicians other than from teaching." But as Natasha Seale advises: "Be prepared to educate (why wouldn’t you want to do this?)"

Reading Sammy's work in the past has introduced me to many lesser known gems so I combined reading this new volume with a little research about each artist. Personal favourite discoveries this time include Simone Baron, Jelly Cleaver, Evie Asio and Brigitte Beraha. The 21 musicians represent a great cross section of different approaches to improvised music and thoughtful artists with a lot to say. An important and highly readable book.

You can order through your favourite bookshop or via amazon.

© Stephen Godsall