Outsiders: Diedrich Diederichsen

This set, compiled by German writer, cultural critic and music theorist Diedrich Diederichsen, explores the history of unconventional female voices in pop music. Sound recording made it possible to turn non-standard voices into objects of desire – but mainly those of men, at first. While rough, nasal or untrained male voices were being celebrated, women were still expected to sing with impeccable technical skill. Diederichsen showcases women who, from the 1960s onwards, challenged these stereotypes using the rawness, intensity, noise and passion of their voices. Fifty years later, rejecting classical vocal conventions has become almost mainstream. This playlist pays tribute to the pioneers of singing it raw.