The New York Times Magazine had the right idea: a photo spread of women who play instruments and make great music. They styled four bands and one hip-hop duo for "Group Dynamics," which published on Sunday. Again, great theory, but the execution was poor. Unfortunately, it's the same old story: no diversity.

With only room for five bands, there were 16 ladies included. Only two of them were African American (the aforementioned hip-hop duo, Yo Majesty). OK, the Times does get some points for gayness (Yo Majesty and members of Electrelane are queer), but the rest of the women are all thin, white model-esque women that can barely crack smiles.

Yo Majesty

Yo Majesty actually have the most interesting write-up, however, with a great quote from Shunda K:

"People don’t always get how we can be gay and also be about getting right with the Lord.‘I say it’s simple. Look at all the success we be having right now. You gonna tell me that God don’t love me?’’

Amen. And while I must admit I am an Electrelane fan, the band actually announced they were on hiatus months ago, so their inclusion in the list is a little odd. There are tons of other bands that could have been featured that are still together and playing their hearts out so fans buy their merch and they can actually make a living. A little pictorial in the New York Times Magazine wouldn't have hurt them. … continue reading