Lovely Western music

Recommendations for Western All-Female Bands—from Legendary Groups to Promising Newcomers

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

The idea that rock is for men feels like a thing of the distant past, with energetic all-girl bands thriving today.

This time, we’re casting a wide net across genres—rock, pop, metal, punk, and more—to spotlight Western girl bands admired by band-loving women.

From legendary groups from the days when all-female bands were still rare to the hottest up-and-coming acts, we’ve carefully selected the best to introduce to you.

You’re sure to find your new favorite girl band.

Be sure to check them out!

Recommendations for Western All-Female Bands: From Legendary Acts to Promising Newcomers (51–60)

Let Me DownThe Staves

The Staves – Let Me Down

Let Me DownThe Staves

The members of this UK-born acoustic/folk rock band are three beautiful sisters.

Their warm acoustic sound is highlighted by the trio’s gorgeous harmonies.

If you enjoy indie pop like Belle and Sebastian, you should definitely give them a listen.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

It’s up to youThe Tuesdays

The Tuesdays – it’s up to you

It's up to youThe Tuesdays

They are a Norwegian band formed in 1990.

They didn’t achieve worldwide success, but their pop sensibilities—especially their beautiful melodies—captivated listeners.

While the strong influence of The Bangles is evident, I think they’ve absorbed it well.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Cherry BombThe Runaways

The Runaways – Cherry Bomb

Cherry BombThe Runaways

Debuting at an average age of just 16 during the 1970s—often called the golden age of rock—the Runaways became pioneers of the all-girl band.

Their brief yet striking career is candidly portrayed in the 2010 film The Runaways.

Lead vocalist Cherie Currie’s provocative outfits and the band’s accessible, pop-tinged rock made them wildly popular in Japan even more than in their home country.

Beyond their tours in Japan, the renowned photographer Kishin Shinoyama even released a photo book centered on Currie.

After the band broke up, guitarist-vocalist Joan Jett and fellow guitarist Lita Ford each went on to successful solo careers.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

M.I.A.7 Year Bitch

7 Year Bitch M.I.A.

M.I.A.7 Year Bitch

7 Year Bitch is a punk rock band formed in Seattle in 1990.

This song was written for Mia Zapata, the lead vocalist of the Seattle punk band The Gits, who was murdered in 1993.

It is included on the album “¡Viva Zapata!” released in 1994.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Bruise VioletBabes In Toyland

Babes In Toyland – “Bruise Violet”

Bruise VioletBabes In Toyland

In Japan, the grunge rock band Babes in Toyland.

You can also strongly feel influences from Sonic Youth and Hüsker Dü.

Although they did not achieve major-label success during their decade-long career, their powerful sound and distinctive character—hard to believe it came from an all-female band—undoubtedly helped define the era.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem