Inspired by the world of words, we thought we would round up 5 books on women and music – just to get you thinking about the different forms and perspectives in which you can consume books on music and gender, from children’s books, roles in the audio world, to interviews, punk sensibilities and considering narratives outside of a western context. We would, of course, love to delve into more specific areas in the future!

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills (Renee Watson) 

This children’s book explores the life of singer and performer, Florence Mills. Born to parents who were both former slaves, Florence Mills knew at an early age that she loved to sing, with her sweet, bird-like voice. With all her success, she knew first-hand how prejudice shaped her world and the world of those around her, actively supporting a call for their civil rights.

Women in Audio (Leslie Gaston-Bird)

Women in Audio features almost 100 profiles and stories of audio engineers who are women and have achieved success throughout the history of the trade. Beginning with a historical view, the book covers the achievements of women in various audio professions and then focuses on organisations that support and train women and girls in the industry.

 A Seat at the Table (Amy Raphael)

More than two decades on, the music business has changed, but the way women are regarded has not. In this new book, A Seat at the Table, writer and critic, Amy Raphael interviews eighteen women who work in the music industry about learning to speak out, #MeToo, social media, queer politics and the subtleness of everyday misogyny. Featuring Christine & the Queens, Nadine Shah, Ibeyi and more.

Girl in a Band: A Memoir (Kim Gordon)

Kim Gordon, founding member of Sonic Youth, fashion icon, and role model for a generation of women, now tells her story. In this memoir of life as an artist, of music, being in a band, marriage, motherhood, independence, Gordon charts her life trajectory from childhood through to the present with introspection. 

Lata Mangeshkar...in Her Own Voice: Conversations with Nasreen (Kabir Munni Nasreen)

Since the 1940s, much-loved and iconic playback singer, Lata Mangeshkar she has reigned supreme in Indian film music. An artist who is amongst the most recorded singers in the world, this series of conversations takes us into the world of one of  India's most gifted singer and reveals the person behind the voice that has provided the soundtrack for the lives of billions.