Madonna gave a powerful speech at Billboard Women in Music 2016, that touched based on feminism, sexism, and a woman's role in the industry. "Thank you for acknowledging my ability to continue my career for 34 years in the face of blatant sexism and misogyny and constant bullying and relentless abuse," she said in front of a massive crowd. She noted the freedom men have the music industry while women are constantly being criticized. "Wait a minute, isn't Prince running around with fishnets and high heels and lipstick with his butt hanging out? Yes, he was. But he was a man.” The star said the most controversial thing she did was "stick around." "Michael is gone. Tupac is gone. Prince is gone. Whitney is gone. Amy Winehouse is gone. David Bowie is gone. But I'm still standing. I'm one of the lucky ones and every day I count my blessings."