Where were you at in your music career when you had your first child? Was there much discussion about how that life choice would affect your career within the music/entertainment industry?

I was first starting out as a manager 15 years ago.I had a 1 year old.  Most ppl in my community already had kids so it wasn’t that out of the norm. When I had my second child who is 5 now. I did so knowing I would not have a job once he was born and would have to completely reinvent myself. 

As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you are facing?

No one understanding postpartum. Or my sense of tiredness.

Having to face down time and picking up where I left off and having to catch up to others who do not have children as a responsibility. 

Not being able to bring my child to events. 

Being out most evenings having to come up with extra money for a babysitter. 

Babysitter cancelling or child falling sick and not being able to attend an event I need to be at. 

Heavily relying on my mom, guilt of putting added stress on her. 

Loosing out on opportunities due to no funds to pay childcare. 

Not being able to expense my childcare fees. 

Not being paid enough to hire a part-time nanny. Especially now working from home. 

What is one small change within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?

Recognizing child care as an eligible expense for all government funded programs. 

How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?

I created the space to have those conversations by holding an annual “Moms in Music” panel discussion featuring other mothers in the music industry. We welcome the children and have activities for them so the moms attending can participate in the discussion. Keep and open dialogue about beinG a parent and let everyone know I have children. 

What’s one specific example of an organization/venue/company doing something great to help support working parents?

I’m not actually sure of any.

What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?

Have more events during the day. Having a safe space for children. Less Alcohol. 

Can you shout out another music mama doing great things? 

Artists: 

@__Charmaine 2022 Juno Winning Hip Hop Artist 

@Aphrose Award winning vocal teacher and recording Artist 

@petramusic ( she has a child with a disability) 2020 Juno Nominated Reggae Artist 

@Sydanie Artist and community activist 

Industry professionals: 

Bev Moore (she has a child with a disability) Music Business Manager 

Elise Roller Music Manager