Chloe Flower's HeForShe Summit Performance and the Intersection of Music, Activism, and Gender Equality

In the realm of music, activism, and advocacy for gender equality, Chloe Flower stands as a force, blending her roles as a musician, composer, and advocate for women's representation, particularly for women of color, within the music industry. Her performance at the 2023 HeForShe Summit showcased not only her musical prowess but also her unwavering commitment to advancing women's rights on a global scale. 

In this exclusive interview, we delve into Chloe Flower's profound insights, exploring her personal dedication to the cause of gender equality and examining the pivotal role that music, art, and her unique experiences as both an artist and activist have played in shaping her advocacy. As she shares her journey, Chloe sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in the music industry, while highlighting her impactful collaboration with the HeForShe solidarity movement. 

1. Your journey as a pianist has undoubtedly been filled with remarkable achievements. Could you share some personal anecdotes or experiences that have shaped your commitment to gender equality and led to your partnership with HeForShe?  

After I left conservatory and entered the writing phase of my life, I researched female composers, particularly ones who had been nominated or won an Oscar. I was shocked to find that only one woman had been nominated (and won) an Oscar for best original score as a solo composer. It then occurred to me that in all my years in conservatory, from the age of 2 until after college, I had NEVER been given a piece of music to learn that wasn’t written by a man. Suddenly, I wondered if I had limited myself as an artist simply because I had never seen another female composer. This realization changed my life. I not only dove deep into the art of composing, but I also wanted to be a voice for female composers past present and future. Less than 5% of music performed by major national symphonies are works written by women. Less than 1% of that music is written by women of color. My partnership with HeForShe is a perfect match because we both understand the power of representation and inclusivity in all fields, not just music. Because we are all connected. 

2. Music has the power to transcend boundaries and convey important messages. How do you believe music can be a powerful tool for respectfully disrupting the status quo and promoting gender equality?  

Music is a tool unlike any other. It can reach into the depths of our souls when no other thing or human can.  In that way, it can reach people in the most respectful way and change the way people think and feel.  People who learn an instrument in elementary school are significantly more likely to volunteer and donate money to charities as adults.  This is because music education teaches empathy through experience.  Music education can change the status quo and promote gender equality in one generation. I truly believe that.  Sports are often segregated by gender. In an orchestra, any age, size, race, and gender can participate side by side, sharing a music stand.  This is why students who participate in music programs are far less likely to make racist jokes or statements and have much lower rates of bullying because music programs teach cultural tolerance and empathy through experience.  

3. Your collaboration with HeForShe has been an inspiring example of using your platform for positive change. What advice would you offer aspiring musicians and artists who wish to amplify their voices and make a meaningful impact on gender equality? 

I think one of the most valuable things we as artists can do with our time is mentorship. Using your voice, especially as a mentor, can change the trajectory of the next generation.  We need to change the mindset of future generations so that gender equality is the status quo.

 

ABOUT CHLOE FLOWER

Visionary artist Chloe Flower became the most talked about pianist in the world after a show-stopping performance with rap queen Cardi B at the 2019 Grammy Awards, launching her into viral fame nearly overnight and prompting her major label debut with Sony Music Masterworks. The Pennsylvania native began playing the piano at the age of two, studying at Manhattan School of Music and London’s Royal Academy of Music before meeting her mentor, the 12-time GRAMMY Award-winning R&B singer-songwriter and producer, Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds. In the years since, Chloe has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including artists like Meek Mill, Lil Baby, Celine Dion, 2Chainz and Nas as well as producers like Mike WiLL Made-It (Miley Cyrus / Beyonce) and Tommy Brown (Ariana Grande / Justin Bieber). Releasing her self-titled debut in 2021, Chloe has coined the term “popsical” to describe her imitable style, which infuses classical music with a contemporary pop sensibility.

Chloe is not only a gifted musician and fashion icon but also an outspoken activist as well. She serves on the advisory board of the UNODC’s Blue Heart campaign. She has been honored by the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Activism (CAST) and received The Last Girl Award from Gloria Steinem and Apne Aap for her efforts in the fight against human trafficking. As a champion of music education, she is the youngest board member of the Liberace Foundation. An official Steinway Artist, Chloe proudly celebrates her Asian heritage and culture and is a fierce advocate for women's representation — particularly women of color — in the music industry. She most recently performed and spoke for the Forbes Power Women’s Summit as well as the HeForShe Summit for UN Women.