A new record label in India, Femme Music, is setting out to empower female indie artists and create a sustainable ecosystem for women in the music industry. Founded by Bengaluru-based musician and producer Sanoli Chowdhury, alongside London-based music veteran Vinod Gadher, the label is dedicated to supporting female voices, helping them own their narratives, and building lasting careers both in India and globally.
With a focus on breaking barriers for female musicians, Femme Music is believed to be the first label in India with this specific mission. The label aims to offer more than just traditional music management. It provides a comprehensive approach, assisting with not only artist management and booking but also the often-overlooked aspects of copyright publishing, helping artists monetise their work and navigate the complexities of the industry.
Sanoli and Vinod were inspired by the 1990s Riot Grrrl movement, which championed female voices in music. They noticed that Indian artists, particularly women, often struggled to understand the music business and lacked the necessary industry support. In response, they launched an NGO called Indie Grrrl in April 2024 to help female artists navigate the challenges they face in the industry.
As Sanoli explains, “The music industry in India lacks management expertise, and there are too many gatekeepers. Femme Music will help artists not only with management and bookings but also with understanding the business side, like copyright publishing. I’ve always felt music needs a community where we can exchange knowledge and support each other, especially when it comes to helping female musicians make a living from their craft.”
Femme Music has partnered with AWAL (Artistes Without A Label) for global distribution, further expanding the reach of its artists. The label’s vision is to create an inclusive space where women can thrive, both creatively and financially, in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
By providing a platform that focuses on collaboration and empowerment, Femme Music is paving the way for the next generation of female artists in India.