Who was Mary Chapin Carpenter referring to in her 1990 performance of Opening Act?

In her 1990 performance of "Opening Act," Mary Chapin Carpenter refers to the struggles and experiences of a young woman navigating the world of music and personal relationships. The song captures themes of ambition, vulnerability, and the complexities of pursuing one's dreams. It reflects on the challenges faced by artists, particularly women, in an industry that can be both exhilarating and daunting.