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!

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

AddictedIvy Lies

Addicted – Ivy Lies (Official Music Video)

AddictedIvy Lies

A girls’ hard rock band from New Zealand.

They are characterized by a fast-paced hard rock sound, strongly influenced by bands like Linkin Park.

The group was formed around vocalist Emra Palmer and drummer Rosie O’Connell.

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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.

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Don’t Call Me on the PhoneBeach Day

Beach Day – “Don’t Call Me on the Phone” {OFFICIAL VIDEO}

Don't Call Me on the PhoneBeach Day

Beach Day is a garage/surf rock band from Florida.

Their dreamy songs, tinged with nostalgia, vividly evoke the image of Florida’s ocean.

It’s refreshing girls’ rock that breathes in the spirit of timeless classics like The Beatles and The Beach Boys.

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The WireHaim

HAIM – The Wire

The WireHaim

Haim, whose debut album released in 2013 was a major hit, quickly became a leading girls’ band.

The sound crafted by the three sisters—Este, Danielle, and Alana—carries on the West Coast sound that has continued since the 1970s, delivering music that is hard-edged yet warmly textured.

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

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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