Popular Western female singer-songwriters
We’ve put together a collection of recommended songs by female singer-songwriters in Western music who captivate the world with their beautiful voices.
Enjoy their playlists—both beautiful and cool—and be sure to pay attention to the lyrics as you listen.
Popular Western female singer-songwriters (1–10)
Up on the RoofNEW!Laura Nyro
Singer-songwriter Laura Nyro, who captured the urbane atmosphere of New York in the melodies of her piano.
She is known for a musical style that uniquely fuses soul, jazz, and gospel.
After her debut in 1966, she achieved major success with songs she wrote for other artists, such as Wedding Bell Blues and Stoned Soul Picnic, which became big hits when covered by The 5th Dimension.
Her own vocal album Eli and the Thirteenth Confession is also highly regarded as a classic, and she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame posthumously in 2012.
Alongside Carole King, she can be considered a pioneering female songwriter.
On nights when you want to feel solitude and love amid the city’s bustle, her passionate, deeply resonant voice is sure to touch your heart.
Right NowSabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter is a 17-year-old American singer-songwriter who is also active as an actress on the Disney Channel.
This delightful song, with its lively and upbeat rhythm, carries the message that rather than being trapped by the past or worrying about the future, we should live fully in the present moment.
Dirty LoveCher Lloyd
This song is by the British singer-songwriter Cher Lloyd, and it’s a fun, carefree track where she sings that she prefers wild boys over serious ones.
With its upbeat, catchy sound that makes you want to dance and Cher’s adorable vocals, it’s a truly charming tune.
A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton
Vanessa Carlton is an American singer-songwriter.
This romantic song, marked by its distinctive piano sound and refreshing love-song feel, expresses a straightforward longing for a distant lover, declaring, “I’d walk a thousand miles tonight to see you.” It’s a track that people in long-distance relationships can’t help but relate to and draw courage from.
Boom ClapCharlie XCX
This song is by the British singer-songwriter Charli XCX and was also used as the theme song for the film The Fault in Our Stars.
It’s an electropop-style ballad that sings about a burning, passionate love.
It also drew attention for its second music video, which was filmed in Tokyo.
FireworkKaty Perry
The “firework” that exists within everyone.
That burning force that drives you is your very life force.
Katy is sending a powerful message: “Everyone, shoot your firework high into the sky!” This song says that everyone has it—women who lack confidence, children in the hospital, anyone.
It’s a song that fills you with energy.
What The HellAvril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne is a Canadian singer-songwriter.
This song is an upbeat, wild party track that sings, “Life’s been going well so far, but I don’t care anymore!” Since it was released right after her divorce from her first husband, some say the lyrics may have been influenced by that event.