Top 9 Female Classic Rock Singers of All Time
From the 95.9 The Hawk panel of experts.
9. Lita Ford gained prominence as the guitarist for the all-female rock band The Runaways in the late 1970s. The band was influential in paving the way for women in rock music. After The Runaways disbanded, Lita Ford embarked on a successful solo career.
8. Debbie Harry (Blondie) – Debbie Harry’s cool and iconic presence, along with her blend of punk, rock, and pop, contributed to Blondie’s success and lasting impact.
7. Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders) – Chrissie Hynde’s distinctive voice and her band’s fusion of rock and new wave elements set The Pretenders apart as a classic rock powerhouse.
6. Joan Jett – Often referred to as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Joan Jett’s rebellious attitude and gritty vocals made her a trailblazer for female rock musicians.
5. Pat Benatar – Pat Benatar’s powerful and versatile voice made her a force to be reckoned with in the classic rock scene. She brought a tough yet vulnerable persona to her performances.
4. Grace Slick – The frontwoman of Jefferson Airplane and later Jefferson Starship, Grace Slick’s strong vocals and charismatic stage presence helped define the psychedelic rock era.
3. Ann Wilson (Heart) – With her powerhouse vocals and ability to deliver both rock and ballads, Ann Wilson played a crucial role in shaping Heart’s success as a classic rock band.
2. Stevie Nicks – As the lead vocalist of Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks brought a mystical and ethereal quality to her performances. Her distinctive voice and songwriting prowess contributed to the band’s iconic sound.
1. Janis Joplin – Known for her powerful and soulful voice, Janis Joplin was a pioneer of blues rock and a symbol of the 1960s counterculture. Her emotional performances and unique vocal style left an indelible mark on classic rock.