Shania Twain has rejected the longstanding suggestion that her most famous songs were intended as feminist anthems or attacks on men. The country-pop star said she did not set out to “bash” men, addressing an interpretation that has followed her career for decades.

Her hits have often been embraced for their assertive, independent messages, which led some listeners to view them as anti-men. Twain’s comments seek to distinguish empowerment and self-confidence from hostility towards men.