Entertainment

Feminist Songs To Listen To Before 2015 Is Over

by Tobi Gbile

The year 2015 was one in which female musicians reigned supreme. From "Same Old Love" singer Selena Gomez to newcomers like singer/actress Hailee Steinfeld, women dominated the charts time and time again this year. Just like any year, in 2015, a girl power theme song was needed — especially with all of the issues threatening feminism that the world grappled with this year. Thankfully, several female artists delivered. But, who released the most feminist songs of 2015?

With artists like Adele, Rihanna, Steinfeld, Nicki Minaj, and more releasing new music in 2015, there are a lot of possible answers — which means that, when there are a few artists that must be named when answering this very important question. While we all love a good love song that talks of romance, it's important that every female has a powerful, badass girl power anthem in their lives. Like Beyoncé's "Who Run the World" and Destiny's Child's "Survivor," that came before, feminist hits never go out of style — and there should always be an influx of new songs, no matter what time of year it is. Thankfully, in 2015, there was no shortage: In no particular order, here are some of the best songs from female artists this year showing that girls still rule:

1. "Feeling Myself," Nicki Minaj Ft. Beyoncé

These two female legends teamed up to release one of the most boppin' girl power anthems of the year. There's no way that you can listen to this song without feeling like a boss a** b*tch. Women everywhere were so inspired by the collaboration that it even developed into numerous Halloween costume adaptions (which myself and my roommate gladly took as inspiration this year).

2. "Love Myself," Hailee Steinfeld

Listeners quickly saw past the catchy beat/instrumental and catchy chorus and realized that there were tons of multiple meanings to this song. Whether you took it literally or it made you realize how important it is to have high self-esteem, this track is one that should inspire women everywhere!

3. "Reflection," Fifth Harmony

After "BO$$," Fifth Harmony's message of girl power shined bright in another song — "Reflection" is a female empowerment anthem!

4. "Me And My Girls," Selena Gomez

Not only does Selena Gomez want something other than that "Same Old Love," but she knows the power of a woman and her female support system! This track will have you feeling like Taylor Swift and her crew in no time, and is a firm reminder that your friends are above all else.

5. "Army," Ellie Goulding

This one is a shoutout to best friends everywhere! The lyrics — with lines like, "We both know what they say about us/ But they don't stand a chance because/ When I'm with you/ I'm standing with an army," — are #relatable, and are a heartfelt reminder of how strong the bond between a woman and her best friend is. It reminds us all that when we're with our best friends, anything is possible, and that we make each other better people. If you're not careful, this one can come with major waterworks.

6. "B*tch Better Have My Money," Rihanna

Rihanna told us this year that she isn't one to mess around with, and that we should all lead by her example. No one balls harder than Queen Ri!

7. "Sit Still, Look Pretty," Daya

This 16-year-old newcomer is one to watch if this song is any indication. If she can make it clear that she's not going to dress herself up for anyone and act a certain way to appeal to people, then you should be able to too! Daya is refusing to sit still and look pretty just to get approval, and frankly, we should all join her!

I hope that some of these talented women in 2015 inspired you to be the best you that you can be, and remind you about why women are so freaking awesome. Can't wait to see what these ladies (and more) have in store for us in 2016!