Guitars for Girls: Empowering the Next Generation of Female Musicians

At Red-Winged Blackbird Records, we believe in the power of music to shape lives, build communities, and preserve cultural traditions. Our Guitars for Girls initiative is dedicated to encouraging young girls to pick up a guitar and find their voice through music. Each year, we provide a free guitar to one deserving girl who shows an interest in learning and a passion for American roots music, helping to ensure that these rich musical traditions are passed on to the next generation.

The Taylor Swift Effect

Katie Powderly, founder of Red-Winged Blackbird Records, often speaks of "The Taylor Swift Effect"—a cultural shift where young girls can easily envision themselves as guitar players and bandleaders. Unlike when Katie was growing up, today’s young women can see themselves on stage, wielding a guitar and creating their own music.

“When I was young, I could hang out with boys in bands or boys who played guitar, but I was quite a bit older by the time I realized that *I* could be a musician or be in a band myself. I didn’t have to find a boy who did that,” Katie reflects. Guitars for Girls is our way of making sure that the next generation of young women never have to wait to see themselves as musicians.

Creating Access and Opportunity

Music can be a transformative force, but not every young girl has access to the tools she needs to start her journey. Through Guitars for Girls, we aim to break down those barriers, offering a tangible start for young women to explore their musical dreams and add their voices to the rich tapestry of roots music. By providing a guitar, we’re not just giving an instrument—we’re giving inspiration, opportunity, and the chance to be part of something larger.

Get Involved

Your support can make a difference. Whether you’re an individual who wants to donate or a company interested in sponsoring a future recipient, join us in nurturing the next wave of female musicians. Let’s continue to build a legacy of music, culture, and community—one guitar at a time.