21 Famous Female Guitar Players Who Rock (Must Hear)

Throughout the history of music, female guitar players have made an indelible mark across various genres, from rock and blues to jazz and classical. These trailblazing women have not only mastered their instruments but have also shattered stereotypes, proving that the guitar is not just a man’s domain.

Their innovative techniques, powerful performances, and groundbreaking contributions have inspired countless musicians and redefined the role of women in music.

In this article, we’ll delve into the careers of famous female guitar players, celebrating their achievements and the lasting impact they’ve had on the world of music.

21 Most Rockin’ Famous Female Guitarists You Should Hear

These guitarists have made significant contributions to their respective genres, breaking barriers and inspiring countless musicians around the world.

Here’s a list of 21 famous female guitar players known for their contributions to various genres:

#1 Sister Rosetta Tharpe

Sister Rosetta Tharpe, born in 1915, was a pioneering guitarist and singer whose blend of gospel music and electric guitar paved the way for rock and roll. Often referred to as the “Godmother of Rock and Roll,” Tharpe was one of the first musicians to use heavy distortion on her guitar, which became a defining feature of her sound. Her powerful voice and virtuosic guitar playing influenced countless artists, including Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard. Tharpe’s performances, particularly her energetic live shows, broke barriers in the music industry, bringing gospel music to mainstream audiences.

Despite her significant contributions to music, Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s legacy was overlooked for many years. However, in recent decades, she has been recognized as one of the most important figures in the history of rock and roll, earning her a posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.

#2 Joan Jett

Joan Jett, born in 1958, is a rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter best known as a founding member of The Runaways and the frontwoman of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Jett’s gritty, no-nonsense guitar playing and rebellious attitude made her an icon of the punk and hard rock scenes. With The Runaways, Jett helped pave the way for female musicians in the male-dominated world of rock. After the band’s breakup, she found success with Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, scoring hits like “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Bad Reputation,” and “Crimson and Clover.”

Jett’s influence extends beyond her music, as she has long been an advocate for women in rock and a role model for aspiring female musicians. Her contributions to rock music were recognized with her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, cementing her status as one of the most important female rockers of all time.

#3 Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt, born in 1949, is an American blues and rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for her slide guitar playing and soulful voice. Raitt emerged in the 1970s with a series of critically acclaimed albums that showcased her blues-infused rock sound. Her mastery of the slide guitar set her apart from her contemporaries, earning her widespread recognition and respect within the music industry. Raitt achieved mainstream success in the late 1980s with her album Nick of Time, which won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.

Throughout her career, Bonnie Raitt has been a strong advocate for social and environmental causes, using her platform to raise awareness on issues she is passionate about. Her contributions to music, combined with her activism, have made her a beloved figure in the world of blues and rock, and she continues to inspire musicians with her talent and dedication.

#4 Nancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson, born in 1954, is the guitarist and backing vocalist for the rock band Heart, which she co-founded with her sister Ann Wilson. Known for her dynamic guitar playing and ability to seamlessly switch between acoustic and electric, Nancy Wilson helped define Heart’s sound, which blends hard rock with folk and pop elements. With hits like “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You,” and “Magic Man,” Heart became one of the most successful rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s. Wilson’s guitar work, particularly her acoustic fingerpicking and powerful electric riffs, has earned her widespread acclaim.

In addition to her work with Heart, Nancy Wilson has composed music for films and released solo albums, further showcasing her versatility as a musician. Her contributions to rock music have solidified her place as one of the most influential female guitarists of all time.

#5 Lita Ford

Lita Ford, born in 1958, is a British-American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter who gained fame as the lead guitarist for The Runaways, an all-female rock band that became a pioneering force in the 1970s. Ford’s aggressive guitar playing and flashy stage presence helped establish her as one of the leading female guitarists in the male-dominated rock scene. After The Runaways disbanded, Ford launched a successful solo career in the 1980s, with hits like “Kiss Me Deadly” and “Close My Eyes Forever” (a duet with Ozzy Osbourne) becoming staples of the hard rock genre.

Lita Ford’s influence on rock music is significant, as she broke barriers for women in the industry and inspired a generation of female guitarists. Her contributions to rock were recognized with her induction into the Guitar Player Magazine Hall of Fame, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the world of rock guitar.

#6 Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell, born in 1943, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Mitchell’s innovative use of open tunings and complex chord structures on the guitar helped define her unique sound, which blends elements of folk, jazz, pop, and rock. Her albums, such as Blue, Court and Spark, and Hejira, showcase her intricate guitar work and deeply personal lyrics, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Mitchell’s influence extends beyond her guitar playing, as she has been a major force in shaping the singer-songwriter genre.

Throughout her career, Joni Mitchell has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her contributions to music and her ability to continually evolve as an artist have made her a timeless figure in the world of music.

#7 Orianthi

Orianthi, born Orianthi Panagaris in 1985, is an Australian guitarist and singer-songwriter known for her exceptional technical skill and electrifying stage presence. She gained widespread attention after being chosen as Michael Jackson’s lead guitarist for his ill-fated This Is It concert series, where her powerful solos and virtuosity brought her to international prominence. Orianthi’s debut album Believe featured the hit single “According to You,” which showcased her blend of rock and pop influences with blistering guitar solos. Her ability to seamlessly switch between genres, from hard rock to blues and pop, has made her a versatile and sought-after guitarist.

In addition to her solo career, Orianthi has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Alice Cooper, Santana, and Richie Sambora. Her influence as a female guitarist in the rock world continues to grow, inspiring young guitarists with her technical prowess and dynamic performances.

#8 Ani DiFranco

Ani DiFranco, born in 1970, is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist known for her fiercely independent spirit and socially conscious lyrics. DiFranco’s guitar playing is characterized by her use of alternate tunings, complex fingerpicking, and percussive strumming, which have become hallmarks of her unique sound. She released her debut album at the age of 19 on her own record label, Righteous Babe Records, and has since built a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and a prolific output of music. Albums like Not a Pretty Girl and Dilate showcase her ability to blend folk, punk, and rock influences with deeply personal and political lyrics.

Ani DiFranco’s impact extends beyond her music, as she has been a strong advocate for social justice, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. Her DIY approach to the music industry has inspired countless independent artists, making her a pioneering figure in the world of alternative music.

#9 Kaki King

Kaki King, born in 1979, is an American guitarist and composer known for her innovative approach to the guitar and her genre-defying music. King’s playing style, which incorporates fingerstyle techniques, tapping, and percussive elements, has earned her critical acclaim and a reputation as one of the most creative guitarists of her generation. Her albums, such as Legs to Make Us Longer and Dreaming of Revenge, showcase her ability to blend elements of rock, jazz, and experimental music into a cohesive and distinctive sound. King’s use of extended techniques and alternate tunings has pushed the boundaries of what the guitar can do.

In addition to her solo work, Kaki King has composed music for film and television, further demonstrating her versatility as a musician. Her contributions to the world of guitar music have earned her a devoted following and solidified her place as one of the most innovative guitarists of the 21st century.

#10 Susan Tedeschi

Susan Tedeschi, born in 1970, is an American blues and soul guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for her powerful voice and emotive guitar playing. Tedeschi first gained attention with her 1998 album Just Won’t Burn, which showcased her blend of blues, rock, and soul influences and earned her a Grammy nomination. Her guitar playing, characterized by its soulful phrasing and deep connection to the blues tradition, has drawn comparisons to legends like Bonnie Raitt and B.B. King. Tedeschi’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music has made her one of the most respected figures in contemporary blues.

In 2010, Tedeschi co-founded the Tedeschi Trucks Band with her husband, guitarist Derek Trucks. The band has since become one of the most acclaimed acts in the blues and jam band scenes, known for their electrifying live performances and tight musicianship. Tedeschi’s contributions to blues music continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

#11 Elizabeth Cotten

Elizabeth Cotten, born in 1893, was an American folk and blues guitarist and songwriter known for her unique fingerpicking style, often called “Cotten picking.” Cotten, a self-taught left-handed guitarist, played a right-handed guitar upside down, which contributed to her distinctive sound. She is best known for her song “Freight Train,” which became a folk standard and has been covered by numerous artists. Cotten’s music, characterized by its simplicity, warmth, and emotional depth, resonated with audiences and helped to preserve traditional American folk music.

Despite starting her professional music career later in life, Cotten became a celebrated figure in the folk revival of the 1960s, earning widespread recognition for her contributions to the genre. Her influence on folk and blues guitarists is profound, and she remains a revered figure in the history of American music.

#12 St. Vincent

St. Vincent, born Annie Clark in 1982, is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for her genre-defying music and innovative guitar work. Clark’s playing is characterized by her use of dissonance, unconventional chord progressions, and a wide array of effects, creating a sound that is both experimental and accessible. Her albums, such as Strange Mercy and St. Vincent, have received critical acclaim for their bold, inventive approach to rock and pop music. Clark’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of art rock, electronic music, and pop has earned her a reputation as one of the most forward-thinking artists of her generation.

In addition to her work as St. Vincent, Clark has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including David Byrne and The National. Her influence on modern guitar playing, particularly for women in alternative and indie music, is significant, making her a key figure in contemporary music.

#13 Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy, born Kristy Marlana Wallace in 1953, is the guitarist and co-founder of the psychobilly band The Cramps. Known for her distinctive blend of rockabilly, punk, and surf music, Ivy’s guitar work became the backbone of The Cramps’ sound. Her use of reverb-drenched riffs, combined with a raw, minimalist approach to playing, helped define the band’s unique style. The Cramps became a pioneering force in the psychobilly genre, with Ivy’s guitar playing serving as a key element of their dark, campy aesthetic.

Throughout her career, Poison Ivy remained a central figure in The Cramps, contributing to the band’s influence on punk, goth, and alternative music scenes. Her innovative approach to the guitar and her role as a female guitarist in a male-dominated genre have made her an iconic figure in the world of underground music.

#14 Jennifer Batten

Jennifer Batten, born in 1957, is an American guitarist known for her virtuosic playing and work with some of the biggest names in music. Batten first gained widespread attention as the lead guitarist for Michael Jackson’s Bad, Dangerous, and HIStory world tours, where her technical skill and flamboyant style made her a standout performer. Her ability to execute complex solos and tapping techniques with precision earned her a reputation as one of the top guitarists in the industry. Batten’s work with Jackson, including her performance at the iconic Super Bowl XXVII halftime show, showcased her ability to command the stage alongside the King of Pop.

In addition to her work with Michael Jackson, Jennifer Batten has released solo albums that explore a wide range of musical styles, from rock to jazz fusion. Her contributions to guitar playing, particularly her pioneering use of tapping and digital effects, have made her a highly respected figure in the world of guitar music.

#15 Melissa Etheridge

Melissa Etheridge, born in 1961, is an American rock singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her raspy voice and emotionally charged performances. Etheridge rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with hits like “Bring Me Some Water,” “Like the Way I Do,” and “Come to My Window.” Her guitar playing, characterized by its strong rhythmic style and blues-rock influences, became a defining element of her music. Etheridge’s songwriting often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and activism, making her a voice for social change, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.

Throughout her career, Etheridge has received numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Her powerful guitar work and deeply personal lyrics have earned her a loyal fanbase, and she continues to be a prominent figure in rock music, inspiring audiences with her resilience and passion.

#16 Marnie Stern

Marnie Stern, born in 1976, is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for her intricate finger-tapping technique and experimental approach to music. Stern’s playing style is highly unconventional, characterized by rapid-fire tapping, complex time signatures, and a frenetic energy that sets her apart from other guitarists. Her albums, such as In Advance of the Broken Arm and This Is It and I Am It and You Are It and So Is That and He Is It and She Is It and It Is It and That Is That, showcase her ability to blend math rock, punk, and avant-garde elements into a unique and captivating sound.

Stern’s influence on the world of indie and experimental rock is significant, as she has challenged traditional notions of guitar playing and expanded the possibilities of the instrument. Her technical skill and innovative approach have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following in the underground music scene.

#17 Chrissie Hynde

Chrissie Hynde, born in 1951, is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter for The Pretenders, a band that became a major force in the punk and new wave scenes of the late 1970s and 1980s. Hynde’s guitar playing, characterized by its raw energy and melodic sensibility, helped define The Pretenders’ sound on hits like “Brass in Pocket,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” and “Middle of the Road.” Her distinctive voice, combined with her ability to craft memorable riffs and poignant lyrics, made her one of the most influential female figures in rock music.

Throughout her career, Chrissie Hynde has remained a vital presence in the music world, continuing to record and tour with The Pretenders and as a solo artist. Her contributions to rock music have been widely recognized, and she remains an inspiration for female musicians who seek to break boundaries and challenge norms in the industry.

#18 Nita Strauss

Nita Strauss, born in 1986, is an American guitarist best known for her work as the lead guitarist for Alice Cooper and her successful solo career. Strauss is celebrated for her virtuosic playing, which blends elements of metal, rock, and classical music. Her technical proficiency, particularly her speed and precision on the guitar, has earned her recognition as one of the top female guitarists in the metal genre. In addition to her work with Alice Cooper, Strauss has released solo material, including her 2018 album Controlled Chaos, which showcases her skill as a guitarist and composer.

Nita Strauss has also made a name for herself as a role model for aspiring female guitarists, breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of heavy metal. Her contributions to the genre and her dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as one of the leading guitarists of her generation.

#19 Emily Remler

Emily Remler, born in 1957, was an American jazz guitarist who made a significant impact on the jazz world during her short career. Remler’s playing was characterized by its lyrical phrasing, impeccable swing, and deep understanding of the jazz tradition. She was influenced by greats like Wes Montgomery and Joe Pass, and she quickly established herself as a rising star in the jazz community. Her albums, such as Firefly and East to Wes, showcase her technical skill and her ability to blend bebop, blues, and Latin influences into a cohesive and distinctive style.

Despite her untimely death at the age of 32, Emily Remler’s contributions to jazz guitar have left a lasting legacy. She is remembered as a trailblazer for female musicians in jazz, and her work continues to inspire guitarists who seek to push the boundaries of the genre.

#20 Sharon Isbin

Sharon Isbin, born in 1956, is an American classical guitarist known for her virtuosic technique and expansive repertoire. Isbin has performed with some of the world’s leading orchestras and has won multiple Grammy Awards for her recordings. Her ability to seamlessly blend traditional classical guitar with contemporary works has made her one of the most respected figures in the classical music world. Isbin is also known for commissioning and premiering new works by composers such as John Corigliano and Tan Dun, further expanding the possibilities of the classical guitar.

In addition to her performing career, Sharon Isbin is a dedicated educator, serving as the founding director of the guitar department at the Juilliard School. Her contributions to classical guitar music and her commitment to advancing the instrument’s repertoire have earned her a prominent place in the history of classical music.

#21 Memphis Minnie

Memphis Minnie, born Lizzie Douglas in 1897, was a pioneering blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose influence on the genre is profound. Minnie’s guitar playing was characterized by its rhythmic complexity, strong bass lines, and intricate fingerpicking, making her one of the most skilled guitarists of her time. She recorded over 200 songs during her career, with hits like “Bumble Bee” and “Me and My Chauffeur Blues” becoming blues standards. Minnie’s ability to blend traditional country blues with urban electric blues helped pave the way for future generations of blues musicians.

Throughout her career, Memphis Minnie broke barriers as a female artist in a male-dominated field, earning the respect of her peers and influencing countless musicians, including Muddy Waters and Big Mama Thornton. Her legacy as a trailblazing guitarist and songwriter continues to be celebrated in the blues community and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which famous female guitarist is known for playing the Stratocaster with Michael Jackson?

Jennifer Batten is renowned for playing the Stratocaster as Michael Jackson’s lead guitarist during his Bad, Dangerous, and HIStory world tours, where her technical skill and dynamic stage presence gained her widespread acclaim.

How did Bonnie Raitt influence the blues-rock genre with her Stratocaster playing?

Bonnie Raitt brought a unique blend of blues and rock to the forefront with her slide guitar technique on the Stratocaster, helping to popularize the instrument in the genre and inspiring future generations of guitarists.

What makes St. Vincent’s use of the Stratocaster unique in modern music?

St. Vincent, also known as Annie Clark, is known for her innovative use of the Stratocaster, incorporating experimental sounds and unconventional chord progressions into her music, making her one of the most distinctive voices in alternative rock.

Which female guitarist from The Runaways is famous for her use of the Stratocaster?

Lita Ford, the lead guitarist for The Runaways, is famous for her use of the Stratocaster, particularly in her solo career where she became a leading figure in the hard rock and heavy metal scenes.