The number of female winners at the Grammy’s increased by 82 percent this year, it has been reported.

In a sharp contrast, in 2018, only 17 of 86 awards were given to women or female-led bands. When asked about the lack of female winners in a post-ceremony press conference, CEO Neil Portnow controversially suggested it was up to women to “step up”.

At the recently held event, 31 women won awards. Among them was Kacey Musgraves, who took home the trophies for Album Of The Year, Best Country Solo Performance, Best Country Song and Best Country Album. Other female winners included Lady Gaga, H.E.R., Cardi B, St. Vincent, and Dua Lipa.