Essential

Decades before indie labels were the norm, and years before women had any real access in the industry, Cris Williamson was changing the face of popular music. She conceived of a national all-women's record company, which subsequently issued her now-legendary classic, The Changer and the Changed -- one of the best-selling independent releases of all time. An entire sub-culture came to be around her songs and her music. A movement was established. Her out politics and pro-environment stance paved the way for many of today's artists. She is part of the curriculum in Women's Studies programs around the world. Her songs are sung around campfires and appear in hymnals and are covered by the young rockers of today. And whether she is gracing the cover of Ms Magazine or selling out Carnegie Hall three times, Cris's many and varied accomplishments are only to be overshadowed by her amazing voice.