The Best 90s Bands With Female Singers
The music scene of the 1990s was bustling with rebellion and new sounds, especially in the rock scene. Grunge, industrial, shoegaze, and other forms of the genre became popularized and with it came some excellent 90s bands with female leads. Some of these bands contained all women while some had female singers backed by a mixed or male instrumental band. The contrast of a feminine voice and hard guitars was the recipe for success for a lot of bands on this list.
Sleater-Kinney, now legendary, burst onto the scene influenced by riot grrrl and punk sounds with their all-female cast. The Cranberries, meanwhile, were originally an all-male band before their lead singer was replaced by the fantastic Dolores O'Riordan and the rest is history. Other great 90s female fronted bands include Hole, Garbage, and Portishead.
Vote on your favorite 90s bands with female singers and scan the list for new possible favorites.
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With a unique blend of jangle pop, folk-rock, and post-punk, this Irish band quickly rose to fame in the '90s thanks to their passionate and politically charged lyrics, coupled with unforgettable melodies. The late Dolores O'Riordan's hauntingly beautiful voice and emotive vocal style added considerable depth to the songs, helping to create their signature sound. Their immense popularity during the decade led to multiple chart-topping albums and a lasting impact on the era's alternative rock landscape.
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- Garbage Unlimited / Infectious Music
Known for their dark and moody brand of alternative rock, this American-Scottish group led by the sultry and enigmatic Shirley Manson made waves throughout the decade. Their combination of electronic-tinged alt-rock and defiantly confessional lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike. As part of the rising wave of female-fronted bands of the '90s, their uncompromising approach and global success cemented their position as influential pioneers.
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Propelled by the dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals of Gwen Stefani, this southern California band skyrocketed to fame with their infectious mix of ska, punk, and pop. Their lively performances captivated audiences around the world as they tackled themes of heartache, personal growth, and female empowerment. As one of the most iconic bands of the 90s, their influence can still be heard in the music industry today, and Stefani went on to enjoy a successful solo career.
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Renowned for their ethereal, dreamy soundscapes, this California band captivated listeners with their atmospheric blend of psychedelic rock, blues, and folk. Frontwoman Hope Sandoval's hauntingly beautiful vocals and seductive stage presence were essential to their hypnotic appeal. Their critically acclaimed albums and enduring influence on the genre of dream pop continue to enchant listeners and inspire new generations of musicians.
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- Three Lobed Recordings
Though Sonic Youth formed in the early '80s, their impact on the 90s alternative rock scene cannot be overstated. With Kim Gordon's dynamic vocals and fearless stage presence, they earned a reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the era. Blending experimental noise with melodic rock, their groundbreaking albums and dedication to pushing boundaries continue to inspire countless musicians today.
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Hailing from Sweden, this pop-rock outfit led by the enchanting vocals of Nina Persson found international success with their cleverly crafted hooks and an engaging mix of bittersweet lyrics. Their seamless blending of elements from various genres, including jazz, indie rock, and electronica, helped them to stand out from the crowd. With a succession of popular albums and hit singles, they have left an indelible mark on the '90s music scene.
