Entry #27. 3 - Billboard Women in Music, 2016. - Madonna

Accepting Billboard's Woman of the Year award, Madonna spoke out about the sexism and misogyny she has struggled over the years. She noted how, earlier in her career, David Bowie became an idol for her because he refused to conform to the traditional standards of gender, but soon realised that as a woman, she was not able to follow that example and receive the same treatment. In other words, she realised there are no rules if you are a man; however, there are rules if you are a woman. Women are allowed to be pretty, cute and sexy, but they are not allowed to act too smart, have an opinion or even share their sexual fantasies with the world, like men do. She recognizes people say she is controversial, according to the standards that society have for women, but she states that the most controversial thing she had ever done is to remain. To conclude, Madonna recognizes that the resistance of the doubters and naysayers made her stronger and help her to be the woman she is today.