In this article, we’ll explore the incredible female rock singers who left a lasting mark on the 1970s music scene.
These women not only showcased their powerful voices but also broke barriers in a male-dominated industry.
From Janis Joplin’s raw, soulful performances to Stevie Nicks’ enchanting and poetic lyrics, these 34 singers prove that women in rock were a force to be reckoned with.
Their influence extends far beyond the 70s, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike.
So, let’s dive in and celebrate the women who shaped an era and paved the way for future female artists in the world of rock music.
34 Legendary Female Rock Singers of the 70s
1. Janis Joplin
Known for her raw, powerful voice and electrifying performances, Janis Joplin became a symbol of the 70s rock era. Her emotional delivery and honest lyrics connected deeply with audiences.
Rising to fame with Big Brother and the Holding Company, she later had a successful solo career with hits like “Me and Bobby McGee.”
- Years Active: 1962-1970
- Famous Songs: “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Cry Baby”
- Famous Albums: “Cheap Thrills,” “Pearl”
2. Grace Slick
As the lead singer of Jefferson Airplane, Grace Slick’s distinctive voice and commanding stage presence made her a key figure in psychedelic rock. Her powerful vocals helped define the era, with hits like “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.”
- Years Active: 1965-1988
- Famous Songs: “Somebody to Love,” “White Rabbit,” “Jane”
- Famous Albums: “Surrealistic Pillow,” “Volunteers”
3. Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt’s versatile voice allowed her to excel in various genres, but her rock performances in the 70s cemented her status as a legend. With hits like “You’re No Good,” she showcased her powerful vocals and emotional depth.
- Years Active: 1967-2011
- Famous Songs: “You’re No Good,” “When Will I Be Loved,” “Blue Bayou”
- Famous Albums: “Heart Like a Wheel,” “Simple Dreams”
4. Patti Smith
Dubbed the “punk poet laureate,” Patti Smith blended rock with poetry, influencing many punk and rock artists. Her 1975 debut album, “Horses,” is considered a groundbreaking work in punk rock.
- Years Active: 1967-present
- Famous Songs: “Because the Night,” “Gloria,” “Dancing Barefoot”
- Famous Albums: “Horses,” “Easter”
5. Debbie Harry
As the lead singer of Blondie, Debbie Harry brought punk and new wave to the mainstream with her cool style. Hits like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me” made Blondie one of the most successful bands of the late 70s.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” “Rapture”
- Famous Albums: “Parallel Lines,” “Eat to the Beat”
6. Chrissie Hynde
Chrissie Hynde’s distinctive voice and tough attitude helped The Pretenders carve out a unique space in rock music. With hits like “Brass in Pocket,” she showcased her ability to craft catchy, meaningful songs.
- Years Active: 1975-present
- Famous Songs: “Brass in Pocket,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” “Don’t Get Me Wrong”
- Famous Albums: “Pretenders,” “Learning to Crawl”
7. Ann Wilson
With her powerful vocals, Ann Wilson led Heart to become one of the most successful rock bands of the 70s. Hits like “Barracuda” showcased her incredible vocal range and emotive power.
- Years Active: 1972-present
- Famous Songs: “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man”
- Famous Albums: “Dreamboat Annie,” “Little Queen”
8. Joan Jett
A pioneer of hard rock, Joan Jett’s gritty voice, and rebellious spirit made her a trailblazer for female rock musicians.
As the founder of The Runaways and later the frontwoman of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, she proved that women could rock just as hard as men. Her hit songs became anthems of female empowerment.
- Years Active: 1975-present
- Famous Songs: “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Bad Reputation,” “Crimson and Clover”
- Famous Albums: “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Bad Reputation”
9. Suzi Quatro
As one of the first female bassists to become a major rock star, Suzi Quatro broke barriers and inspired many women to pick up the instrument. With her energetic stage presence, Quatro defied gender stereotypes and proved women could be just as tough as men.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “Can the Can,” “Devil Gate Drive,” “48 Crash”
- Famous Albums: “Suzi Quatro,” “Quatro”
10. Carly Simon
Known for her introspective songwriting and captivating voice, Carly Simon’s music resonated deeply with 70s audiences. Her hit singles showcased her ability to craft clever, emotionally honest lyrics.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “You’re So Vain,” “Anticipation,” “Nobody Does It Better”
- Famous Albums: “No Secrets,” “Anticipation”
11. Stevie Nicks
With her enchanting voice and mystical stage presence, Stevie Nicks became an iconic member of Fleetwood Mac, helping to define the band’s unique sound.
Her solo work further showcased her artistic vision and cemented her status as a rock legend.
- Years Active: 1966-present
- Famous Songs: “Rhiannon,” “Dreams,” “Edge of Seventeen”
- Famous Albums: “Rumours” (with Fleetwood Mac), “Bella Donna” (solo)
12. Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics made her one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the decade. Her albums showcased her ability to weave complex emotions and vivid imagery into her music.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “Big Yellow Taxi,” “A Case of You,” “Both Sides Now”
- Famous Albums: “Blue,” “Court and Spark”
13. Bonnie Raitt
Bonnie Raitt’s blend of blues and rock, combined with her slide guitar skills, brought a fresh sound to the 70s rock scene. Her soulful voice and emotive performances earned her a dedicated following.
- Years Active: 1971-present
- Famous Songs: “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” “Something to Talk About,” “Love Sneakin’ Up On You”
- Famous Albums: “Nick of Time,” “Luck of the Draw”
14. Carole King
As a talented songwriter and performer, Carole King’s album “Tapestry” became a defining work of the decade. The album’s honest, heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies struck a chord with listeners.
- Years Active: 1958-present
- Famous Songs: “It’s Too Late,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” “You’ve Got a Friend”
- Famous Albums: “Tapestry,” “Music”
15. Yoko Ono
Known for her avant-garde style and partnership with John Lennon, Yoko Ono pushed the boundaries of rock music. Her experimental approach challenged conventional notions of what rock could be.
- Years Active: 1961-present
- Famous Songs: “Walking on Thin Ice,” “Kiss Kiss Kiss,” “Give Peace a Chance” (with John Lennon)
- Famous Albums: “Double Fantasy” (with John Lennon), “Plastic Ono Band”
16. Kate Bush
With her theatrical performances and experimental music, Kate Bush redefined what rock music could be. Her unique voice, poetic lyrics, and innovative use of synthesizers created a sound that was both ethereal and powerful.
- Years Active: 1975-present
- Famous Songs: “Wuthering Heights,” “Running Up That Hill,” “Babooshka”
- Famous Albums: “The Kick Inside,” “Hounds of Love”
17. Emmylou Harris
Emmylou Harris blended country with rock, creating a unique sound that influenced many artists in both genres. Her pure, haunting voice and emotive performances brought a new level of depth and authenticity to country music.
- Years Active: 1969-present
- Famous Songs: “Boulder to Birmingham,” “Two More Bottles of Wine,” “Luxury Liner”
- Famous Albums: “Pieces of the Sky,” “Elite Hotel”
18. Rickie Lee Jones
Known for her jazzy voice and eclectic style, Rickie Lee Jones brought a new dimension to 70s rock. Her self-titled debut album showcased her ability to blend rock, jazz, and folk influences into a sound that was distinctly her own.
- Years Active: 1978-present
- Famous Songs: “Chuck E.’s In Love,” “The Last Chance Texaco,” “Danny’s All-Star Joint”
- Famous Albums: “Rickie Lee Jones,” “Pirates”
19. Marianne Faithfull
With her deep, husky voice, Marianne Faithfull’s music evolved significantly during the 70s, blending rock with her unique style. Her 1979 album “Broken English” showcased a new level of depth and raw emotion.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “As Tears Go By,” “The Ballad of Lucy Jordan,” “Broken English”
- Famous Albums: “Broken English,” “Faithless”
20. Agnetha Fältskog
As one of the lead singers of ABBA, Agnetha Fältskog helped bring Swedish pop and rock music to a global audience. Her clear, powerful voice and emotive performances were central to ABBA’s signature sound.
- Years Active: 1967-present
- Famous Songs: “Dancing Queen,” “Waterloo,” “The Winner Takes It All”
- Famous Albums: “Arrival,” “Super Trouper”
21. Anni-Frid Lyngstad
Alongside Agnetha, Anni-Frid Lyngstad’s harmonies and powerful vocals were central to ABBA’s worldwide success. Her rich, soulful voice added depth and texture to the group’s sound.
- Years Active: 1967-present
- Famous Songs: “Fernando,” “Money, Money, Money,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You”
- Famous Albums: “The Album,” “Voulez-Vous”
22. Amanda Lear
With her deep voice and glamorous persona, Amanda Lear became a prominent figure in the European rock and disco scenes. Known for her collaborations with Roxy Music and her solo work, Lear’s music blended elements of rock, disco, and cabaret.
- Years Active: 1975-present
- Famous Songs: “Follow Me,” “Enigma (Give a Bit of Mmh to Me),” “Queen of Chinatown”
- Famous Albums: “I Am a Photograph,” “Sweet Revenge”
23. Etta James
Etta James’ powerful voice and emotional delivery brought blues and soul into the rock genre, influencing many artists. Her raw, passionate performances on songs like “I’d Rather Go Blind” showcased her ability to convey deep emotion.
- Years Active: 1954-2012
- Famous Songs: “At Last,” “I’d Rather Go Blind,” “Tell Mama”
- Famous Albums: “At Last!,” “Tell Mama”
24. Aretha Franklin
Known as the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin’s crossover into rock showcased her incredible vocal talent and versatility. Her powerful voice and emotive performances made her a true force in music.
- Years Active: 1956-2018
- Famous Songs: “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” “Think”
- Famous Albums: “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You,” “Lady Soul”
25. Tina Turner
Tina Turner’s dynamic performances and raspy voice made her one of the most electrifying rock singers of the 70s. Her solo career reached new heights with albums that blended rock, pop, and soul.
- Years Active: 1958-2021
- Famous Songs: “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Private Dancer”
- Famous Albums: “Private Dancer,” “Break Every Rule”
26. Millie Jackson
Millie Jackson’s bold lyrics and strong stage presence brought a unique edge to rock music with her blend of soul and blues. Her powerful voice and dynamic performances made her a standout figure.
- Years Active: 1964-present
- Famous Songs: “Hurts So Good,” “If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Want to Be Right),” “Love Is a Dangerous Game”
- Famous Albums: “Caught Up,” “Feelin’ Bitchy”
27. Olivia Newton-John
Although primarily known for her pop hits, Olivia Newton-John’s forays into rock music during the 70s showcased her versatility. Her 1978 album “Totally Hot” featured a more rock-oriented sound.
- Years Active: 1963-2018
- Famous Songs: “A Little More Love,” “Deeper Than the Night,” “Physical”
- Famous Albums: “Totally Hot,” “Physical”
28. Dusty Springfield
Known for her soulful voice, Dusty Springfield made significant contributions to rock with her powerful performances. Her 1969 album “Dusty in Memphis” is considered a masterpiece of blue-eyed soul.
- Years Active: 1958-1995
- Famous Songs: “Son of a Preacher Man,” “I Only Want to Be with You,” “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me”
- Famous Albums: “Dusty in Memphis,” “A Girl Called Dusty”
29. Nico
As a member of The Velvet Underground, Nico’s haunting voice and unique style left a lasting impact on rock music. Her debut solo album, “Chelsea Girl,” showcased her ability to blend elements of folk, classical, and avant-garde music.
- Years Active: 1965-1988
- Famous Songs: “These Days,” “All Tomorrow’s Parties,” “Femme Fatale”
- Famous Albums: “Chelsea Girl,” “The Marble Index.”
30. Sandy Denny
With her clear, emotive voice, Sandy Denny’s work with Fairport Convention and as a solo artist earned her critical acclaim. She helped pioneer the British folk-rock movement.
- Years Active: 1965-1978
- Famous Songs: “Who Knows Where the Time Goes,” “Meet on the Ledge,” “The North Star Grassman and the Ravens”
- Famous Albums: “Liege & Lief,” “The North Star Grassman and the Ravens”
31. Maria Muldaur
Best known for her hit “Midnight at the Oasis,” Maria Muldaur’s blend of folk, blues, and rock made her a distinctive voice of the 70s. Her self-titled debut album showcased her ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles.
- Years Active: 1963-present
- Famous Songs: “Midnight at the Oasis,” “I’m a Woman,” “It Ain’t the Meat It’s the Motion”
- Famous Albums: “Maria Muldaur,” “Waitress in a Donut Shop”
32. Cynthia Robinson
- Years Active: 1966-2015
- Famous Songs: “Dance to the Music,” “Everyday People,” “I Want to Take You Higher”
- Famous Albums: “Stand!,” “There’s a Riot Goin’ On”
33. Phoebe Snow
Known for her multi-octave vocal range and ability to blend jazz, blues, and rock, Phoebe Snow was a unique talent of the 70s. Her self-titled debut album showcased her incredible voice and eclectic musical style.
- Years Active: 1972-2011
- Famous Songs: “Poetry Man,” “Harpo’s Blues,” “Two-Fisted Love”
- Famous Albums: “Phoebe Snow,” “Second Childhood”
34. Grace Jones
Grace Jones’ bold and androgynous style, along with her genre-bending music, made her a standout figure in 70s rock. Her unique blend of disco, funk, and post-punk influences created a sound that was both danceable and edgy.
- Years Active: 1973-present
- Famous Songs: “Pull Up to the Bumper,” “Slave to the Rhythm,” “I’ve Seen That Face Before (Libertango)”
- Famous Albums: “Nightclubbing,” “Slave to the Rhythm”
The Legacy They Left
The female rock singers of the 70s left an indelible mark on the music industry, shaping the course of rock music for generations to come.
Their unique voices, powerful performances, and innovative approaches to songwriting and stage presence redefined what it meant to be a rock artist.
These women challenged gender stereotypes and proved that they could rock just as hard as their male counterparts, if not harder. Their music inspires and influences artists across various genres, from rock and pop to country and R&B.
The emotional depth, raw energy, and unapologetic authenticity they brought to their music set a new standard for artistic expression. It helped to broaden the scope of what rock music could encompass.
The trailblazing female rock singers of the 70s made their mark on the music industry and paved the way for future generations of women in rock.
The impact of these groundbreaking female rock singers can still be felt today. Their songs remain timeless classics, and their influence continues to shape the sound and spirit of rock music.
The legacy of these groundbreaking artists can be seen in the work of countless female rock musicians who have since taken the stage.
Wrapping It Up
The female rock singers of the 70s left a long-lasting legacy that inspired and influenced generations of musicians.
From Janis Joplin’s raw, powerful performances to Stevie Nick’s enchanting voice and poetic lyrics, these women redefined what it meant to be a rock star.
Their impact can still be felt today, as countless female artists follow in their footsteps, following their unique styles and pushing the boundaries of the genre.
As we celebrate these iconic singers, we must also recognize their role in paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse music industry.
Their legacy reminds us that true artistry knows no gender and that the power of music can transcend any barrier.
