She’s soon to be seen playing Mia in one of the year’s biggest films, but when it comes to the male-dominated music business Rita Ora says that it’s vitally important that women “stick together.”

Rita Ora Shares ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Photo, ‘Can’t Wait’ for Movie Release

“I think people take the word feminist really seriously and I think people are scared to use that word,” the British singer says in an interview with U.K. newspaper The Mirror.

“In this industry, all the heads of labels are men, but every artist has to prove themselves, regardless of their sex. I have always been very vocal about the women sticking together,” Ora went on to say.

“Without pulling the whole female card, I think it has always been harder for females in all respects,” Ora added. “Whenever we have an opinion it always seems to be taken out of proportion. As a woman in this industry, it has always been a bit about proving yourself.”

In addition to starring in the upcoming adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey, 2015 will also see Ora debut as a judge on the British version of The Voice, alongside Tom Jones, Will.i.am and Kaiser Chiefs singer Ricky Wilson.

“It is the first time that I have been on TV for more than an interview or something like that. I’m nervous about what I am going to think of myself when I watch myself back,” the singer told The Mirror.

This year will also see the 24-year-old – who is signed to Jay-Z‘s Roc Nation imprint and memorably featured on Iggy Azelea‘s “Black Widow” Hot 100 smash – release her as-yet-untitled second album. The first single to be lifted from the album was “I Will Never Let You Down,” which sparked a high-profile feud with her Ora’s ex-boyfriend, EDM star Calvin Harris, who wrote and produced the track.

Although that relationship quickly soured, Ora has no shortage of other artists lining up to work with her. In the run up to her sophomore studio set, the singer is reported to have been collaborating with Diplo, Diane Warren, Jay-Z, Charli XCX, Dev Hynes, Chicago-based rapper Vic Mensa, Will.i.am and Prince, although it has not been confirmed which artists or collaborations will appear on the album.

Rita Ora Discusses New Album & Calvin Harris: ‘I Don’t Control Other People’s Minds’

“I was completely shocked that Prince would even know my name,” Rita told Clash magazine last year. “I was thinking to myself, ‘I cannot believe I’m in Minneapolis in Paisley Park making music with a walking legend.’ He plays everything, he’s got all these instruments, and he still looks fabulous. He’s a 360-degree work of art. He’s literally a walking work of art.”