The forthcoming documentary This Changes Everything will feature a new song from Andra Day, who is part of a new initiative for female artists in the music industry, Billboard can exclusively announce today (July 11).
The song, entitled “Side By Side,” pairs with the film to amplify its mission, which is to encourage men and women to support socially-conscious entertainment and media that addresses gender equality and female representation. The announcement of the singer/songwriter/activist’s collaboration with the doc, which was directed by Tom Donahue and executive produced by Geena Davis, is the first action of the initiative.
“I am truly honored to support this incredible film and its mission-critical message,” Day explains. “For too long, we have accepted the false narrative that there are limited positions of power for women in all industries. Women don’t need to be empowered — we’re empowered! We need opportunities. We need equality and equity.”
“‘Side by Side’ is a labor of love on a whole new level because it was written, performed, engineered, and produced by women,” she continues. “I want every female artist to get to experience what I felt in that recording studio surrounded by brilliant and incomparably talented women. It’s why I am proud to be one of the Founding artists of VOCL [Voices of Change Leaders].”
“Andra’s lifelong activism and dedication to expand opportunities for women in the music industry make her an important addition that we sought for this documentary,” said executive producer Geena Davis. “We’ve brought together a powerhouse group of women and men with a common goal to advocate for gender inclusion in the entertainment industry. And we’re beyond thrilled to have Andra amplify our goal — we believe her involvement will convey the urgency for audiences around the world to see this film and better understand the importance of systemic gender equality in media and entertainment.”
The feature-length film will include interviews with Davis, Meryl Streep, Tracee Ellis Ross, Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Oh, Shonda Rhimes, Natalie Portman, Anita Hill and more.
The song and film will make their debut in theaters for a special one-night only screening on July 22 with Fathom and Good Deed Entertainment. Find tickets and community screenings here.