Toby Lightman’s journey in the music industry is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering dedication to artistic independence. From the unexpected moment at her high school graduation that revealed her vocal talent to landing a major record deal and earning praise from Rolling Stone and Billboard, Lightman’s career has been defined by breaking barriers. Sharing stages with legends like Prince and Rob Thomas, she proved her ability to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and raw storytelling. Yet, beyond the spotlight, Lightman’s evolution as an artist has been driven by a deeper purpose—taking control of her own sound and empowering other women to do the same.
As one of the few female artists producing her own music, Lightman has emerged as a powerful advocate for gender equality in the music industry. Through organizations like She Is the Music and Women in Music, she is working to change the narrative, ensuring that women have a voice not just in performance but in production and composition. Her 2022 self-produced album After All was a deeply personal reflection on motherhood, loss, and resilience—brought to life entirely on her own terms. As she prepares to release her next album in 2025, Lightman continues to champion the idea that women can and should own their creative journeys.
And today, Toby releases her new single “Higher”, an empowering anthem of perseverance and triumph, stream it now wherever you listen to music.
“‘Higher’ came along at a time when I needed to empower myself and those around me; to praise our own unique voices and stay true to our authentic selves. As we get older, I truly believe we keep getting better, and that in itself deserves an anthem. This song is that.” – Toby Lightman
What inspired you to pursue a career in music? What was the process of breaking into the music industry like for you? Were there any early challenges that shaped your perspective?
I was inspired to pursue music as my career when I sang in front of a large crowd for the first time. It was my HS graduation and nobody around me knew that I could sing, let alone me! When I saw the crowds reaction to my rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” with my school choir behind me, I knew that there was something there. I had been classically trained on the violin and at that point had been playing in orchestras for 12 years, but I was always making an instrument make noise, not my own body. I didn’t fully understand it!
So I went off to college and experimented.. I sang at open mics.. taught myself guitar.. wrote bad songs.. I even dropped out of school for a few months and sang in a band in Thailand. Even then, I just couldn’t wrap my head around my own abilities. When I came back, I decided to treat singing like a job, and a record deal would validate it for me, but more importantly, for my family. I didn’t grow up thinking music was a viable job. That all changed when I got signed to a major record deal a year after graduating
Reflecting on your journey in the music industry, what are some of the moments or achievements you are most proud of?
I have so many moments in my career that I’m proud of, but I will try to narrow it down. First, was showcasing my first album in front of all of the talent bookers for late night TV. It was my first real show as a professional recording artist and every publicist, magazine, talent booker was there. My family came and was able to meet the president at the label. They were so excited to be a part of it and see what I’ve been working so hard on. I went on to perform on Letterman, Conan and more.. Another moment and probably my biggest achievement, was having the honor of opening for Prince. When I met with him, he told me that he watched me perform my single “Devils and Angels” on the Conan O’Brien show and loved the guitar chords I was using and my voice.
I went on to have the most surreal night of my career; from him sitting in the stands to applaud my sound check.. to watching him live from the mixing board.. to him inviting us to a special after party that ended up being just for the few of us in my band.. He gave me the best advice I’d ever gotten as a musician.. He said, you don’t need anyone.. you don’t need the label.. you can do it on your own.. you can produce on your own.. we talked until 3 in the morning about it. And now I’m proud to say that that’s what I’m doing. 20 years later.. But I’m producing my own music and doing it on my own and I couldn’t be prouder of what I’m creating.. I only wish he was still around to hear it.
How has your sound and artistry evolved since you first started your career, and what influences have shaped that growth?
After college, and while I tried to get a record deal, I was learning how to program drum beats at Wyclef Jeans pre production studio. So my music leaned more Pop R&B. However, when my first album debuted and was on top 40 radio, I started touring with a live band. I fell in love with how amazing musicians could play all of my programmed parts. So now my music is a lot more organic and real, however, I still do love finding a unique sound and slipping that into the production.
Are there any collaborations or projects that stand out as particularly meaningful or transformative for you?
A couple of years ago, I was asked by performers with the American Ballet Theater to perform with them. They choreographed a beautiful ballet to my song “After All” and it was one of the most sensory overloads I’ve ever had. To stand there and perform this emotional song, while they danced was extremely moving for me.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a woman in the music industry?
There are many challenges that I find as a woman in the music industry. As a producer, I find there are not many women producing their own music. Going into a studio and trying to get the best performance in a room with male producers can be intimidating when you’re first starting out. I taught myself production so I could support my music and my voice in my own way, and not be influenced or bullied as I once was. I am very passionate now in helping other women feel this empowerment. I also find there to be an element of ageism as a woman in music. This industry wants the newest and youngest, but I’ll tell you that I am better now than I ever was in my 20’s. I feel so much more confident and have more to say in my music, now more than ever.
Have you ever faced bias as a woman balancing motherhood and a music career? How did you handle it?
I think there is bias in this industry on the daily.. If you are not present in person or on social media, then it’s hard to keep up. As a mother, being present for my children will take precedence every time. They are my driving force now and I don’t feel bad about it. It just makes it harder to create the content that you need now to expose your music.
Have you encountered any pivotal moments where you had to stand up for yourself or your vision? How did you navigate those situations?
When I was writing my first album, I was trying to finish songs quickly. I had one song that was shaping up to be a very meaningful song.. My first that would really incapsulate my feelings at the time. When I finally finished and played it for my producer, he said he didn’t think it was good enough to be on the album. We would record it, but I could tell he was holding back on its potential. When we reached the end of the album, we got into an argument about whether or not this song should be on it or not. I ended up having to get on the phone with Jason Flom, the president of my label, and he asked, do you want it on or off. I said quietly.. on. That song is by far my fans favorite song and went on to be placed on Fox’s show Bones. From that moment on, I learned to trust my feelings.
Why is advocating for women in the music industry important to you, and how has this focus shaped your career?
Advocating for women has become more important the older I get. I have become much more aware of the societal limitations that are put on women when there is no need for them. We are completely capable of anything and more. Producing my own music and amplifying other women to do the same has become a top priority for me. And in this political climate where women’s bodies are a constant government conversation, there is no time to be silent.
What changes have you observed in the industry regarding gender equality, and what progress do you think still needs to be made?
Changes happen all the time.. Now more than ever, women are standing up and claiming their voice. I have become active in so many organizations like Women in Music, She is the Music, Artists & Mothers etc.. so there is more strength in numbers. We just need to continue doing that unfortunately.. I know there is a lot of support out there, we just need to continue building it!
What advice would you give to aspiring female artists, producers, and songwriters looking to break into the industry?
The only advice to give is to stay true to yourself. Don’t change you or your craft for anyone and be proud of what you create. Because only you can create it.
What steps can fans, artists, and industry professionals take to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the music world?
I think we all just need to put our money where our mouth is. When we are targeting women.. whether through a product, marketing or just a feeling, have women deliver that message. If you make a movie about women or for women.. have women make the music.
What new music or projects can your fans look forward to? Are there any exciting plans or goals you’re particularly focused on for the year ahead?
I am excited to say that I am producing my 7th full length album.. I have made a lot of music in my career and have a lot more ahead.. but I truly believe this is group of songs is by far my best effort yet and I cannot wait for everyone to hear it!
