Lovely Western music

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

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

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!

Recommendation of Western All-Female Bands: From Legendary Groups to Promising Young Acts (21–30)

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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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.

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Recommendations for Western All-Female Bands: From Legendary Acts to Promising Newcomers (31–40)

JumpersSleater-Kinney

Sleater-Kinney – Jumpers [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

JumpersSleater-Kinney

A girls’ trio from Olympia, Washington, USA.

While they never achieved major commercial success, they enjoyed a cult following on the indie scene and, since their formation in 1994, have continued to influence many bands over a long period.

They went on hiatus in 2006, but restarted in 2014 and are now energetically active as a duo with two original members.

Perhaps their most distinctive feature is their bass-less lineup.

In their early days they had a rough, punkish sound emblematic of Riot Grrrl, but later their music became more refined, embracing a rich musicality centered on a supple, distinctly feminine sensibility.

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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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Son Of A BitchCivet

Civet – Son Of A Bitch

Son Of A BitchCivet

Civet is a girls’ rock band from Long Beach, California.

Signed to Hellcat Records, the label of the punk band Rancid, they deliver a fiery punk sound.

In particular, vocalist Liza Graves’s gritty, full-bodied vocals have an undeniable power that can only be described as simply cool.

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Three Small WordsJosie&the Pussycats

Josie And The Pussycats – 3 Small Words

Three Small WordsJosie&the Pussycats

Josie and the Pussycats is a fictional rock band originally created by American cartoonist Dan DeCarlo.

The song was produced by Babyface, known for his work with R&B artists such as Mary J.

Blige and Boyz II Men, and is performed by the girl band portrayed by Rachael in the 2001 film of the same name starring Rachael Leigh Cook.

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LiarVanilla Ninja

VANILLA NINJA – LIAR (Official Music Video | HD) 2004

LiarVanilla Ninja

A girls’ hard rock band from Estonia in the Baltic states, their name is Vanilla Ninja! Even if the meaning isn’t entirely clear, the grandiose, quintessentially hard-rock-sounding name suits them as they deliver an ’80s-style hard rock sound.

They enjoy high popularity in Europe, and it’s said an ice cream of the same name was made.

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