In a poignant moment during a press conference backstage at Lilith Fair in 1999, renowned musician Sheryl Crow addressed her tumultuous experience at Woodstock ‘99. The festival, which had aimed to celebrate peace and music, was overshadowed by incidents of violence and sexual assault, particularly against female artists. Crow, the biggest star in the music world that summer who helped to launch Lilith Fair, was candid. In her remarks, she lamented the treatment of women in the music industry and in society at large.
Second, Lilith Fair was a progressive, groundbreaking alternative touring festival, created by the amazing Sarah McLachlan. It featured only female musicians and toured around the United States for three summers in the late 1990s. As a fest by women, for women, the festival celebrated women’s artistry and empowerment. Even more remarkable, it was the direct antithesis to the hellscape that loomed over Woodstock ’99. Crow made the disconnect very clear at the press conference, and he did so in dramatic, eye-popping fashion. She spoke personally about the lasting effects of everything that happened at that disastrous festival.
During the press conference, Crow recounted her traumatic experience at Woodstock ‘99. She remembered dealing with a threatening, male audience that harassed women in acts with comments such as, “show us your tits.” Yet the tenor of Woodstock was reported as being hugely hostile, violent and frightening for women. Crow said she would hope that such behavior would not represent what’s to come for our country or for our children.
“I’m hoping it doesn’t represent our future as a nation or the youth of America.” – Sheryl Crow
Crow’s words obviously resonated and inspired millions. They drew attention to the double-bind women experience in the music industry, and all industries, as well as society. Her perspective serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges regarding gender equality and respect for women in various fields.
The documentary “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery,” directed by Ally Pankiw, includes Crow’s reflections and adds depth to the understanding of this cultural moment. The documentary explores the radical impact of Lilith Fair. It was a great reminder of how the festival stood behind female artists at a time when they were sorely underrepresented.
Sandra Bernhard, an electric presence at the festival, captured the vibe of Lilith Fair perfectly. She framed that as indicative of a new, more genuine perspective on music and community. She figured it had a rather free-spirited, “ladies of the canyon” feel. She noted that the climate of the festival was focused on ensuring a productive and safe environment for female artists and audiences.
“Because I assumed it had a ‘ladies of the canyon’ vibe – the earnestness of it.” – Sandra Bernhard
It was musicians like Sheryl Crow who helped elevate the artistry of what happened at Lilith Fair. She demonstrated her incredible prescience about vital social matters. Some critics suggest that she might have been one of the first public figures to recognize the rise of divisive movements in America, predicting trends that would culminate in political shifts years later. Her reflections on Woodstock and Lilith Fair serve as a chilling reminder of how far society still has to go in addressing issues of gender inequality and respect.
Proudly, the communities that Lilith Fair celebrated continue to thrive and enrich the music industry. It was a demonstration of the amazing things women can accomplish when they come together in solidarity. The festival provided a platform for female artists to share their stories and connect with audiences who supported their struggles.
Lilith Fair’s mission couldn’t be more different than the disaster that was Woodstock ‘99. It points to the growing realization that we must create safe spaces where women can succeed free from harassment and violence. Crow’s remarks at the press conference really put a finger on this fight. They even reminded us of our constant need to keep watch for any sort of backpedaling on women’s rights.