Roundup of popular female guitarists: introducing guitar players from Japan and around the world.

Playing with Pink Noisekaki king

Kaki King – Playing With Pink Noise

Kaki King is a guitarist and composer from the U.S.

state of Georgia.

In 2006, Rolling Stone named her one of “The New Guitar Gods,” making her the only woman and the youngest person on the list.

She is an artist renowned for her commanding guitar performances, featuring percussive playing that makes extensive use of tapping techniques and delicately crafted, intricately interwoven melodies.

Within You Without YouPatti Smith

Patti Smith Within You Without You

Patti Smith is known as an artist representing New York’s punk rock scene.

Active since the 1970s, she has captivated many fans with her unique style that fuses rock and poetry.

She released her debut album, Horses, in 1975 and became a central figure in the punk rock movement.

In 1978, Because the Night became a hit, and she was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Beyond music, she is a multi-talented creator who also excels as a poet and painter.

Her powerful vocals and literary lyrics are distinctive, and her willingness to tackle a wide range of themes—from religion to the Beat movement—is compelling.

She’s a highly recommended artist for those interested in punk rock and poetry.

Newton’s appleHaruka

HARUKAtomiyuki “Newton’s Apple” (Official Music Video)

I’m the vocalist and guitarist of the folk-rock duo Haruka to Miyuki.

I also write and compose all of our songs.

Beyond my refined features, my clear, translucent singing voice—tinged with a quiet madness that highlights our introspective lyrics—is part of the appeal.

ALL I FOUNDDebbie Davies

“ALL I FOUND” – DEBBIE DAVIES @ Callahan’s Music Hall, April 2010

Debbie Davies is a female guitarist from Los Angeles, born in 1952, who began playing piano and guitar at the age of 12.

She joined Maggie Mayall & the Cadillac Band in 1984, then from 1988 honed her skills with Albert Collins’s band, the Icebreakers, and in 1991 joined as guitarist for Fingertips Taylor.

She made her solo debut in 1993 with the release of her first album, “Picture This.” Her performances, backed by over 30 years of experience as a guitarist, are outstanding.

Me And Bobby McGeeJanis Joplin

Janis Joplin – Me And Bobby McGee (Audio)

Janis Joplin, known as one of the defining white female blues vocalists of the 1960s, captivated audiences with her intense, unrestrained musical style.

She first drew attention as the vocalist for Big Brother and the Holding Company and later found success as a solo artist.

Her emotional, powerful voice—shaped by blues, rock, soul, and American folk—continues to be highly acclaimed.

Her electrifying performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival had a major impact on the music scene.

Despite her brief career, she left behind hits like “Piece of My Heart” and secured a legendary place in music history.

She’s highly recommended for those who want to be moved by a powerful voice and soulful performances.

Bang Bang BangTracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman – Bang Bang Bang (Official Video)

Tracy Chapman is an American singer-songwriter born in 1964.

She works across a wide range of genres, including folk, blues rock, pop, and soul.

She released her debut album, “Tracy Chapman,” in 1988 and gained worldwide recognition.

She has an impressive list of accolades, including four Grammy Awards and the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year.

Her appeal lies in lyrics filled with deep social insight and a warm, resonant voice.

Many of her songs carry political messages, reflecting her commitment to addressing social issues through music.

She is recommended not only for fans of folk and blues, but also for anyone drawn to lyrics that speak to the heart.

Bring Me Your LovesSt. Vincent

St Vincent – Bring Me Your Loves (T in the Park 2015)

St.

Vincent is an American guitarist and vocalist born in 1982.

After starting guitar at 12, she enrolled at Berklee College of Music, left after three years, and went on to perform with groups such as The Polyphonic Spree, the Glenn Branca Guitar Orchestra, and as a touring member for Sufjan Stevens.

She released her debut album, “Marry Me,” in 2007 and remains a highly popular artist today.