Meet the seven legendary female guitarists who not only shattered stereotypes but also set the music world ablaze like a rock ‘n’ roll firework show!
From shredding solos that could make angels weep to riffs so fierce they’d make a dragon blush, these trailblazing women have proven that talent knows no gender. Grab your air guitar and get ready to be inspired—because these ladies didn’t just change the game; they rewrote the entire rulebook!
Sister Rosetta Tharpe – The Godmother of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, often hailed as the Godmother of Rock ‘n’ Roll, was a groundbreaking musician whose electrifying guitar skills and powerful vocals paved the way for generations of artists to come.
Blending gospel, blues, and rock, she created a unique sound that captivated audiences and defied the musical norms of her time. Tharpe’s energetic performances, often featuring her signature style of playing the guitar while singing, showcased her incredible talent and charisma, making her a true trailblazer in the music industry.
Despite facing racial and gender barriers, she inspired countless musicians, including Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley, proving that her influence extended far beyond her era. Her legacy is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and challenge societal expectations, solidifying her place in history as a pioneer who changed the landscape of rock music forever.
Joan Jett – Pioneer of Punk and Hard Rock
Known as a pioneer of punk and hard rock, Joan Jett has made a lasting impact on the music scene with her strong personality and memorable sound.
Best known for her iconic hit “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Jett’s raw energy and powerful guitar riffs challenged the norms of a male-dominated industry and paved the way for future female rockers.
As a founding member of The Runaways, she broke barriers in the 1970s, proving that women could rock just as hard as their male counterparts. Jett’s relentless passion for music and her unapologetic persona have inspired countless artists and fans alike, making her a true icon of rebellion and empowerment.
Bonnie Raitt – A Blues and Slide Guitar Virtuoso
Bonnie Raitt is a celebrated blues and slide guitar virtuoso known for her soulful voice and exceptional guitar skills. Over the course of her career spanning several decades, she has seamlessly blended elements of blues, rock, and folk, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences.
Raitt’s mastery of slide guitar, in particular, sets her apart, allowing her to produce rich, expressive tones that enhance her heartfelt lyrics. Her critically acclaimed albums, including “Nick of Time,” have earned her numerous awards, including multiple Grammy wins.
Bonnie Raitt’s passion for music and her dedication to her craft have solidified her status as one of the most influential female musicians in the blues genre.
Nancy Wilson (Heart) – Master of Both Acoustic and Electric Guitar
The talented guitarist of the rock band Heart, Nancy Wilson, is celebrated for her mastery of both acoustic and electric guitar.
With her skillful playing and innovative techniques, she has crafted some of the most memorable riffs and melodies in rock music, earning her a place among the genre’s greats.
Wilson’s ability to seamlessly switch between the warmth of acoustic tones and the power of electric guitar showcases her versatility as a musician. Hits like “Barracuda” and “Crazy on You” highlight her dynamic playing style and distinct sound, which have inspired countless aspiring guitarists.
As a trailblazer for women in rock, Nancy Wilson continues to be an influential figure, proving that talent knows no boundaries.
Lita Ford – Queen of ‘80s Metal Guitar Shredding
Lita Ford, often referred to as the Queen of ’80s Metal Guitar Shredding, rose to fame with her electrifying guitar skills and powerful stage presence.
As a former member of the all-female band The Runaways, she broke barriers in a male-dominated industry and became a trailblazer for female rock musicians.
Ford’s signature sound is characterized by her lightning-fast solos and fierce riffs, showcased in hits like “Kiss Me Deadly” and “Close My Eyes Forever.” With her blend of hard rock and metal, she captivated audiences and solidified her status as one of the most influential female guitarists of her time.
St. Vincent (Annie Clark) – The Avant-Garde Guitarist
St. Vincent, Annie Clark’s stage name, is celebrated for her innovative and avant-garde approach to guitar playing, which pushes the boundaries of traditional music.
With a unique blend of rock, pop, and experimental sounds, she captivates audiences with her intricate melodies and bold techniques. St. Vincent’s mastery of the guitar is matched by her inventive use of effects and unconventional song structures, making her a standout figure in the modern music scene.
As a trailblazer, St. Vincent continues to inspire a new generation of musicians to explore the limitless possibilities of the guitar.
Orianthi- The Guitarist Who Rocked with Michael Jackson and Alice Cooper
Orianthi is a powerhouse guitarist known for her incredible talent and versatility. She has shared the stage with music legends like Michael Jackson and Alice Cooper.
Her collaboration with Jackson during his ill-fated “This Is It” tour showcased her exceptional skills and earned her widespread recognition in the music industry.
Orianthi’s dynamic playing style combines rock, blues, and pop elements, making her a standout performer in any genre. With Alice Cooper, she brought her signature flair to classic hits, proving that she can hold her own alongside rock royalty.
BEST GUITARS FOR FEMALE BEGINNERS
Jackson JS Series Rhoads MAH JS32, Amaranth Fingerboard, Natural
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OTHER INFO: 24 Jumbo frets
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Epiphone Les Paul Muse, Wanderlust Green Metallic
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OTHER INFO: Available in stunning Wanderlust Green Metallic finish
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When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
LA Select Modern Electric Guitar by Gear4music, Pink
FEATURES: Two humbucker pickups for powerful sound
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When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trailblazers of Sound:
Seven Legendary Female Guitarists Who Redefined Music
These seven legendary female guitarists have not only shattered stereotypes but also set the music world ablaze with their extraordinary talent and passion.
From Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s groundbreaking blend of gospel and rock to Joan Jett’s punk anthems that challenged the status quo, each artist has made a significant impact on the industry. Bonnie Raitt’s soulful slide guitar and Nancy Wilson’s versatile playing further demonstrate that women can dominate the rock scene just as fiercely as their male counterparts.
Meanwhile, Lita Ford’s electrifying shredding and St. Vincent’s avant-garde techniques showcase the diverse paths these trailblazers have taken to redefine what it means to be a guitarist. Orianthi’s collaborations with music legends like Michael Jackson and Alice Cooper highlight the power of female musicians to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best.
Together, these women have rewritten the rules of music, proving that talent knows no gender and inspiring future generations of musicians to follow in their footsteps.
