She Writes Songs Launches A New Movement to Champion Female Songwriters

26 March 2025 - Press release

London & Monterey, California to Host Exclusive Launch Events

She Writes Songs (SWS), a pioneering new community interest company, is launching to support female songwriters in an industry still dominated by men. A recent study estimates that 90% of songs in the public domain are written by men and in the UK the most recent figure is 81.7%. This glaring disparity is why SWS is on a mission to turbo boost the careers of women songwriters.

SWS will provide female songwriters with artistic development, networking, and career acceleration opportunities. The organisation’s structured mentoring program will offer direct access to industry professionals, covering songwriting, composition, stagecraft, and audience engagement. It will also focus on personal development, including resilience coaching to help artists navigate industry challenges. As part of its career support, SWS will offer hands-on experience in music production, collaboration, and recording, alongside tailored coaching to help artists grow their audience and secure industry opportunities.

Founded by Sarah Gillespie (renowned singer-songwriter, producer, and founder of Create Now Academy) and Stephen Budd (music executive and co-founder of NH7 Weekender), SWS is supported by a powerhouse advisory board featuring industry leaders like Jin Jin, Michelle Escoffery, and Vick Bain.

Sarah Gillespie, Co-Founder & Creative Director commented: "While many initiatives exist to address gender disparity in music, She Writes Songs is uniquely focused on empowering female songwriters at every stage of their careers. By providing mentorship, exposure, and a strong community, we are ensuring that women’s contributions to music are heard, recognised, and celebrated."

To celebrate its launch, SWS will host two exclusive fundraising events. Monterey, California will host the first event on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Wendi Kirby Studio in Old Monterey, with live music, networking, talks & wine. A London showcase will follow, with an electric lineup of pop icons - including a performance from Shaznay Lewis of All Saints - jazz divas, and Grammy-winning songwriters at the legendary Ronnie Scott’s on Sunday, May 25, 2025. Both events will feature live performances, networking opportunities, and discussions on how to reshape the industry for female songwriters.

She Writes Songs is calling on industry partners, patrons of the arts, and advocates for gender equality in music to join its mission in ensuring female songwriters receive the recognition, opportunities, and support they deserve.