Throughout the year, Atwood Magazine invites members of the music industry to participate in a series of essays reflecting on identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
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Today, Norwegian duo Oakland Rain share their essay, “Beyond the Albatross of Patriarchal Expectations: Redefining Gender Equality in the Music Industry,” highlighting the importance of embracing differences and challenging patriarchal expectations, as a part of Atwood Magazine’s Women’s History Month series. They assert that gender equality hinges on recognizing and valuing diverse traits and identities, rather than conforming to narrow stereotypes.
Maren and Charlotte Wallevik, known collectively as Oakland Rain, are mirror twins whose individuality is shaped by contrasting traits, from hand dominance to cognitive styles. Their debut double album, ‘Twin Flames,’ delves into the complexities of identity, organized by color and genre. Part 1, ‘The Evergreen,’ embodies earthy Americana influences, while Part 2, ‘Heavenly Blue,’ explores Nordic alternative pop themes. Through their music, Oakland Rain navigates themes of self-evolution, compassion, and the human condition with cinematic flair, drawing from personal experiences and their intimate bond as sisters. With a rich musical heritage and a penchant for exploring the depths of emotion, Oakland Rain’s nuanced expression resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.
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“BEYOND THE ALBATROSS OF PATRIARCHAL EXPECTATIONS”
by Oakland Rain
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If the seat around the table is given solely based on the premise of suiting the patriarchal expectation of being female, the perception of gender equality is destined to become its albatross…
It is always such a pleasure when we are asked what it is like working together as twin sisters.
The answer is, genuinely, that we love each other’s company. Not only because we get along so well, but also because we challenge and inspire each other with verve and musical enthusiasm.
Perhaps the most important thing we have learned from each other over the years is to embrace our differences. In the process of making our English-speaking debut album, we realized that our sisterhood (also together with our two-year older sister and co-manager, Kathrine) is the main pillar not only of our lives, but also of our music.
In our song “Sister Hymn,” we wanted to shed light on this important discovery and create a song that celebrates the amazing sisterhood that exists around the world. The song is a tribute to everyone who has paved the way before us and a reminder of not taking our opportunities for granted – as well as sharing those opportunities with each other.
In our experience, being a female artist demands a certain level of tenacity that is separated from the struggle of being any artist.
We grew up in a wonderfully liberal home, and it took time for us (which is a privilege) to realize that being a girl can, in some environments, be seen as “lesser than.” It has become evident to us that what some may perceive as “feminine traits” are often viewed as a weakness. Some examples of perceived “feminine traits” are sensitivity, emotional richness, and humility. These abilities are very important in, for example, the arts, which shows why the patriarchal idea of “strong traits” is too narrow – and even damaging. For example, being sensitive and asking how people around you feel can be a beautiful way of building relations and creating trust and safety in an environment – for all genders. There should be room for anyone to be themselves in the work field, in the education system, and in social environments. So-called “feminine traits” should also be allowed and celebrated in any human, regardless of gender.
Gender equality will not be obtained as long as the premise for a seat around the table depends on whether one “fits” into the patriarchal expectation of one’s gender.
Being “female” is unique for each individual, in the same way that being “human” is unique. Equality is not obtained if you, as a female, have to behave like a male to have the same chances of respect, opportunities, and freedom of expression.
Perhaps the pivoting of perception holds the key to gender equality; the point isn’t to equalize genders, but to equalize gender rights. – Oakland Rain
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Stream: “If You Were a Song” – Oakland Rain
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