The Women’s International Music Network hosts its eight annual She Rocks Awards on Friday, and among the honorees are multi-platinum producer Linda Perry, soul star Gloria Gaynor, rock & roll pioneer Suzi Quatro and many more. We spoke to Perry about this important event.

L.A. WEEKLY: What does it mean to you to win a She Rocks award?

LINDA PERRY: In any situation it’s amazing to be recognized for your creative decisions. I have always felt that as a music maker, creative consultant, innovator, harmonic guide , call it what you will. But being a mentor was part of the spiritual package. How does it feel? Fulfilling.

Have you attended the event before? 

No, I have not and I am very excited to be a part of such an inspiring and empowering event.

Under this current administration, is it more important than ever to highlight women in music with events such as this?

Women have been undervalued, under-appreciated, underestimated and, let’s face it, thrown UNDER the table since Cain and Abel. Highlight women? We need to expose the corruption!

You’re being honored alongside Suzi Quatro and Gloria Gaynor — are you a fan?

Are you kidding? Gloria and Suzi are on the “The Soundtrack Of My Life” playlist.

What else do you have coming up?

I am co-founder of We Are Hear. It’s a label, management and artist empowerment company. We also do events and are working on rebuilding the creative community. My partner Kerry Brown and I have a lot of incredible projects coming up and we can’t wait to share them.

I’ve been nominated for a Grammy alongside Dolly Parton. I’m also finishing up two documentaries that I’m scoring. I’m a pretty amazing mom as well. I am thankful for the opportunities that keep coming my way.

She-Rocks takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, January 17 at the House of Blues, Anaheim.

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