“Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves”: Origins and Notable Covers of the Feminist Anthem

When “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” burst onto the airwaves in 1985, it wasn’t just a song—it was a declaration. Written by Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, the track was recorded as a powerhouse duet between the Eurythmics and Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. It blended Lennox’s bold new-wave energy with Franklin’s gospel-rooted fire, creating a feminist anthem that celebrated women’s independence, resilience, and strength. The lyrics flipped the script on decades of pop clichés, spotlighting women as leaders, thinkers, and changemakers rather than simply background muses.

The song became a cultural marker of the 1980s women’s movement, often cited as one of the defining feminist pop anthems of the era. Its punchy rhythm, soulful vocals, and unapologetic lyrics made it a rallying cry far beyond the charts.

Over the years, “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” has been reimagined by other artists, keeping its message fresh for new audiences. One of the most memorable performances came from The First Wives Club (1996), where Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton closed the film with a spirited, comedic-yet-triumphant rendition that captured the song’s enduring feminist bite.

Another notable cover arrived in the early 2000s when Belgian singer Natalia teamed up with the Pointer Sisters. Their version infused the song with funky harmonies and powerhouse vocals, a testament to its adaptability across genres and generations.

Each interpretation reinforces the song’s original spirit: that women, whether on stage, in the boardroom, or in everyday life, are not just supporting characters—they are the main event.

Annie Lennox and Aretha Franklin

Natalia and The Pointer Sisters