In the music industry, intelligence in women is undervalued.

Hearken, children of the ages, and heed the words of Bat for Lashes, who spoke with the piercing clarity of one who has witnessed both brilliance and dismissal: “In the music industry, intelligence in women is undervalued.” Within this observation lies a truth as old as civilization itself: that the contributions, insights, and creative power of women have too often been obscured, diminished, or disregarded, even in realms where genius should command reverence.

Since the earliest times, societies have sought to define who holds authority and whose voice is heard. In the courts of kings, the halls of philosophers, and the amphitheaters of poets, women’s intellect was often minimized, their wisdom overshadowed by social custom. Yet, history bears witness to those who persevered. The undervaluation of intelligence is not an absence of capability; it is a reflection of prejudice, bias, and the failure of culture to honor merit wherever it appears. Bat for Lashes reminds us that even in modern creative realms, these shadows persist.

Consider the story of Clara Schumann, a composer and pianist of extraordinary talent in the 19th century. Though she possessed a mind as keen and creative as her male contemporaries, her works were often overlooked in favor of the men around her, even as she performed their compositions with brilliance. Her intelligence and artistry, though undeniable, were undervalued simply because she was a woman. In this, we see the resonance of Bat for Lashes’ insight: genius alone is not always enough to command recognition in an environment shaped by bias.

In the music industry of today, the same pattern endures in subtler forms. Women who navigate production, songwriting, or business strategy often find their intelligence undervalued, their decisions questioned, and their authority challenged. It is a systemic oversight, a cultural inertia that prefers to highlight certain voices while neglecting others. Yet history and experience show that acknowledging and embracing this intelligence enriches the art itself, elevating creativity, innovation, and cultural resonance.

The undervaluation of intelligence has consequences beyond individual frustration. It shapes the music produced, the narratives celebrated, and the values transmitted to society. When women’s insight is ignored, the cultural dialogue is impoverished; the full spectrum of human understanding is diminished. Conversely, when intelligence is honored regardless of gender, the resulting art resonates more deeply, reflects broader truths, and empowers future generations. Bat for Lashes’ words call us to recognize this imbalance and to act.

Practical wisdom emerges from this reflection. To counteract the undervaluation of intelligence, one must actively listen, amplify, and respect voices that have historically been ignored. Support women in leadership, songwriting, and production roles. Question assumptions, challenge biases, and advocate for equitable recognition in all creative endeavors. By doing so, one does not merely rectify an injustice; one enriches culture itself.

Let this lesson extend beyond music. In any field—science, literature, governance, or art—the undervaluation of intelligence diminishes potential and impoverishes human achievement. The remedy is vigilance, intentionality, and courage: to honor skill and insight wherever it is found, and to dismantle structures that perpetuate inequity. Recognition of intelligence becomes both an ethical and practical imperative.

Finally, remember that every society is measured by its ability to value wisdom without prejudice. Bat for Lashes’ insight is a call to action: let us celebrate intelligence in all its forms, uplift voices that have been overlooked, and honor the creativity, insight, and skill that women bring to the music industry and to the world. In doing so, we create not only equity, but a richer, more resonant culture for generations yet to come.

If you wish, I can also craft a poetic, rhythmic version of this explanation for audio narration, emphasizing cadence and emotion to bring Bat for Lashes’ teaching vividly to life. Do you want me to do that?