Rock and roll has always been considered a male-dominated genre, but that hasn’t stopped numerous women from making a significant impact in the industry.
From the early days of Janis Joplin and Joan Jett to modern-day powerhouses like Hayley Williams and Lzzy Hale, female-fronted rock bands have been rocking stages and breaking barriers for decades.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 female rock bands of all time, and some of the best women rockstars ever! Let’s get started.
10 Best Female-Fronted Rock Bands
10. The Runaways
The Runaways were an all-female rock band formed in 1975. They were pioneers in the genre, and their raw, rebellious sound paved the way for future female rockers. The band’s original lineup consisted of Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Sandy West, Jackie Fox, and Cherie Currie. Their hits include “Cherry Bomb,” “Queens of Noise,” and “I Love Playin’ With Fire.”
9. Heart
Heart was formed in 1973 with sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson. Their music blended elements of hard rock and folk, and they quickly became one of the most successful female-fronted rock bands of all time. Their hits include “Barracuda,” “Crazy On You,” and “Alone.”
8. Paramore
Paramore are fronted by the incredible Hayley Williams. The band’s music is a mix of pop punk and alternative rock, and Williams’ dynamic vocals helped them achieve mainstream success. Their hits include “Misery Business,” “Ain’t It Fun,” and “Still Into You.”
7. Hole
Hole was formed in 1989 by Courtney Love. The band’s sound was a mix of punk and grunge, and their lyrics often dealt with themes of feminism and abuse. Their hits include “Celebrity Skin,” “Violet,” and “Doll Parts.”
6. Evanescence
Evanescence was formed in 1995 by Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody. The band’s music blended elements of rock and classical music, and Lee’s powerful vocals helped them achieve mainstream success. Their hits include “Bring Me To Life,” “My Immortal,” and “Going Under.”
5. Garbage
Shirley Manson is the incredible woman who fronted Garbage. The band’s music blended elements of rock, electronica, and pop, and Manson’s powerful vocals helped them stand out in a crowded music scene. Their hits include “Stupid Girl,” “Only Happy When It Rains,” and “Push It.”
4. The Pretenders
The Pretenders were formed in 1978 by Chrissie Hynde. Their music was a mix of punk, rock, and pop, and they quickly became one of the most influential bands of the 80s. Their hits include “Brass in Pocket,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” and “Middle of the Road.”
3. The Cranberries
The late great Dolores O’Riordan was the wonderfully talented face of The Cranberries. The band’s music was a mix of alternative rock and Irish folk music, and O’Riordan’s distinctive vocals helped them stand out in the 90s music scene. Their hits include “Zombie,” “Linger,” and “Dreams.”
2. No Doubt
There is no doubt (pun intended) that Gwen Stefani had an incredible pop career but it’s a shame she didn’t spend longer in the rock genre.
No Doubt was formed in 1986 and the band’s music was a fresh mix of ska, reggae, and rock, and their energetic live shows helped them become one of the most popular bands of the 90s. Their hits include “Don’t Speak,” “Just a Girl,” and “Spiderwebs.”
She was a brilliant frontwoman and songwriter who helped to inspire many women around the globe.
1. Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac has had 18 band members across their history, and haven’t always been fronted by a woman, but by far their most notable lead singer throughout their career was Stevie Nicks.
She helped to bring the band to new heights, not only with her performances and stage presence, but also her songwriting.
Nicks joined the band in 1975 and helped them achieve mainstream success with her unique voice. While Nicks is a rock legend, it’s also important to mention the influence of the late, great Christine McVie on the band.
She wasn’t on lead vocals as much as Nicks but she was a phenomenal talent and songwriter who was responsible for some of the band’s best songs.
Breaking Down Barriers
These ten bands have proven that women can rock just as hard as their male counterparts. They have broken down barriers and challenged stereotypes, inspiring countless young women to pursue their dreams of becoming rock stars.
Their impact on the music industry has been immense, and their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
However, it’s important to note that this list is not comprehensive, and there are countless other female-fronted rock bands that deserve recognition.
Bands like The Bangles, Veruca Salt, Sleater-Kinney, and more have also left their mark on the genre. New bands such as Nova Twins, Pale Waves, and Wet Leg could well make their way onto this list in the future.
Best Female-Fronted Rock Bands – Final Thoughts
Female-fronted rock bands have been making waves in the music industry for decades, and these ten bands have left an indelible mark on the genre.
They have challenged stereotypes, broken down barriers, and inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams of becoming rock stars. Their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and their impact on the music industry will never be forgotten.