Searxng/Stacy L. Smith Music New USC study reveals women's representation in music is declining, not improving-falling to 36.1% on top charts despite years of advocacy. May 3, 2026 AceShowbiz - The latest research from Stacy L. Smith and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative highlights a troubling decline in the representation of women across the music industry's most influential roles. The study, which examines trends over 14 years, reveals that women's presence as artists, songwriters, and producers in the recording studio is diminishing rather than improving.