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 Foreign Girl Bands: From Legendary Groups to Promising Young Acts (41–50)

CloserTegan and Sara

Tegan and Sara – Closer [OFFICIAL HD MUSIC VIDEO]

CloserTegan and Sara

A single released from Heartthrob, the seventh album by Canadian indie pop duo Tegan and Sara, released in 2013.

It was produced by Greg Kurstin, who is also known for his work with Kelly Clarkson and P!nk.

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I Heard It Through The GrapevineThe Slits

The Slits I Heard It Through The Grapevine

I Heard It Through The GrapevineThe Slits

A girls’ post-punk band from London.

The Slits were a band that shattered conventions and loudly championed the liberation of women and the mind.

Produced by Dennis Bovell, who also worked with The Pop Group, their sound is primitive yet unrestrained, infused with elements of reggae.

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KoolMeet Me @ The Altar

Meet Me @ The Altar: Kool [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

KoolMeet Me @ The Altar

Pop punk, a genre that boomed in the 2000s.

Although it was a scene largely dominated by white artists, there’s a pop punk band of people of color that’s been gaining popularity lately: Meet Me @ The Altar, who sing “Kool.” Pop punk is by no means a scene riddled with racism.

Still, when it comes to speaking for the struggles many girls of color face, there may be no band better suited than they are.

Women who struggle with self-confidence might find this song uplifting.

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I Heard You SayVivian Girls

Vivian Girls – I Heard You Say [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

I Heard You SayVivian Girls

This is a song included on Share The Joy, the final album released in 2011 by the lo-fi punk band Vivian Girls, formed in Brooklyn, New York.

The band disbanded in 2014.

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You Don’t SatisfyPandoras

Pandoras “You Don’t Satisfy”

You Don't SatisfyPandoras

Pandoras are a scream-inducing garage punk band, also known for having Kim Shattuck—who later formed The Muffs—as a member.

Their sound and style are pure ’60s, the kind you could easily imagine appearing in a Quentin Tarantino film.

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