Razing barriers of gender and race

I’M often turned off by pop culture analysis, which too often can seem forced and will tell me more about the writer than the subject. With this article [“Guitar Soul Divas,” July 30], though, you touched upon some real truths regarding rock “authenticity” and the challenges of being a black woman playing acoustic, introspective music. I’m one of those musicians and feel encouraged by the success of the women you’ve featured.

I find it interesting that you also mention white female singer-songwriters such as Regina Spektor and Kaki King. These women have an inroad to the indie rock scene that I feel still eludes black women with more soulful influences. This is a bridge that I’d really like to cross.

AMY LACOUR

Los Angeles