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- Iris Schneider, L.A. Times
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The Best Female Rock Singers Of The '80s, Ranked
Vote up your favorite lady rock singers of the '80s.
The 1980s marked an exhilarating era in rock music, with female artists stepping into the spotlight and commanding the stage like never before. These trailblazing rocker women not only challenged gender norms, but also left a mark on the rock genre with their raw talent, powerful voices, and distinctive styles.
Joan Jett, often hailed as the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," emerged as a powerful star with her band, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. She was known for her rebellious persona and raspy voice, and her anthem "I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll" became an iconic track of the decade. Tina Turner, another luminary of the '80s, redefined rock and pop with her electrifying stage presence and dynamic vocal performances. After a tumultuous period in her personal life, Turner made an extraordinary comeback with the release of her solo album Private Dancer. Stevie Nicks, both as a member of Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist, also made an unforgettable impact on the rock genre in the '80s. With her mystical stage presence, airy voice, and poetic songwriting, Nicks created timeless hits such as "Gypsy" and “Edge of Seventeen.”
These stars are just a few among many who defined the rock landscape of the '80s. The singing achievements of the best woman rockers of the '80s continue to resonate through the decades.
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Ann Wilson is the lead vocalist of Heart, a band she co-founded with her sister, Nancy Wilson. Known for her powerful, multi-octave voice and emotional delivery, Ann helped Heart become a major force in rock music with hits spanning from the '70s through the '80s.
Band: Heart
Standout Song: "Alone"
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Stevie Nicks is both a solo artist and a member of Fleetwood Mac, where her distinctive voice and mystical stage presence made her famous. Known for her poetic songwriting, Stevie had a solo career that took off in the '80s with hits like "Edge of Seventeen."
Band: Fleetwood Mac
Standout Song: “Gypsy”
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Pat Benatar is famous for her powerhouse vocals and strong performance style. Her classical training in opera allowed her to bring technical precision and dramatic intensity to rock music. With hits like "Love Is a Battlefield," she became a defining voice of '80s rock, known for her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability. Pat's dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess have earned her multiple Grammy Awards and a lasting legacy in rock history.
Band: N/A (Solo artist)
Standout Song: “Love Is a Battlefield”
Love this rock star?![Nancy Wilson]()
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Nancy Wilson is known as the guitarist and backing vocalist for Heart, a band she co-founded with her sister Ann Wilson. Her exceptional guitar skills, ranging from intricate acoustic work to powerful electric solos, have been a defining element of Heart's sound. In addition to her musicianship, she has contributed significantly to the songwriting, helping create some of the band's most memorable hits.
Band: Heart
Standout Song: “These Dreams”
Love this rock star?![Joan Jett]()
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Joan Jett is a rock musician best known for her work with the Blackhearts as well as her earlier band, The Runaways. She has been called the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll" for her rebellious persona, distinctive raspy voice, and influential presence in the rock music scene.
Band: Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Standout Song: "I Love Rock ’n’ Roll"
Love this rock star?![Susanna Hoffs]()
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Susanna Hoffs is best known as the lead singer and guitarist of The Bangles, a band that achieved considerable success with their blend of rock and pop. Her clear, melodic voice and engaging stage presence were central to the band's appeal. Susanna's talent for crafting catchy, memorable pop-rock songs helped the band secure numerous hits.
Band: The Bangles
Standout Song: “Walk Like an Egyptian”
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