Thanks for bringing all these wonderful female artists' talents to the fore. I saw the biopic on Bessie Smith, played by Queen Latifah, it was really entertaining. Just like poetry can often speak about the trials and tribulations of painful relationships, music can bring a higher dimension to the like. I don't remember if you mentioned Mary J. Blige, but she sings the difficulties of life and love better than anyone! She and I were going through it at the same time. Her last album/EP helped to sustain me and keep my sanity through it all! Super article! Thanks!