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While talent will always be first and foremost among how we judge and enjoy music sung by female vocalists and artists, we can’t shy away from the fact that looks can play a pretty important role in marketing a rockstar. It’s just an honest statement. As a music history site, our goal has always been to showcase the greatest music and musical artists in history. While the majority of the singers on this list are female rockers we have included a few outside of the genre from the R&B, country, and jazz fields because as we always try to argue on here, all music is connected. So here we go…
# 25 – Olivia Newton-John
Photo: Posterazzi, CC BY 2.5 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5>, via Wikimedia Commons
Olivia Newton-John was an Australian singer, actress, and advocate known for her angelic voice, charismatic presence, and impressive versatility across pop, country, and adult contemporary music. Rising to fame in the 1970s, she achieved worldwide recognition with songs like “I Honestly Love You” and “Have You Never Been Mellow.” Her career reached new heights with her iconic role as Sandy in Grease, where her transformation from sweet girl-next-door to rebellious rock star captivated audiences. This stunning portrait captures her timeless beauty and radiant smile, which made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
Read More: Top 10 Olivia Newton-John Songs
# 24 – Alicia Keys
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Alicia Keys is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her soulful voice, captivating piano skills, and powerful lyrics. Rising to fame with her debut album Songs in A Minor in 2001, she became a defining voice in contemporary R&B and soul, with hits like “Fallin’” and “If I Ain’t Got You.” Her music often explores themes of love, empowerment, and resilience, resonating with audiences worldwide. Over the years, Alicia has become a multi-Grammy Award-winning artist and a respected advocate for social justice, using her platform to inspire and uplift.
Read More: Top 10 Alicia Keys Songs
# 23 – Lizzy Hale – Halestorm
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Lzzy Hale, the fierce frontwoman of Halestorm, is known for her powerful voice, gritty guitar riffs, and unapologetically bold presence. Formed with her brother Arejay Hale, Halestorm quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and raw rock sound, leading them to become one of the most successful modern rock bands. Their self-titled debut album in 2009 showcased Lzzy’s vocal prowess with hits like “I Get Off,” while their Grammy-winning song “Love Bites (So Do I)” from The Strange Case Of… solidified their place in rock history.
Read More: Top 10 Halestorm Songs
# 22 – Amy Lee – Evanescence
Photo: Justin Higuchi from Los Angeles, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Amy Lee, the powerhouse vocalist and co-founder of Evanescence, is known for her haunting voice, gothic aesthetic, and intense emotional depth. Emerging in the early 2000s with the release of Evanescence’s debut album Fallen, Lee captured audiences worldwide with hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal,” which showcased her unique ability to blend rock, classical, and alternative elements. Her classically trained background, combined with her skills as a pianist and songwriter, brought a sophistication to Evanescence’s sound, making the band stand out in the rock scene. Amy Lee’s dark, ethereal look—often featuring corsets, flowing skirts, and dramatic makeup—has become as iconic as her music, creating an enduring image of her as one of rock’s most enigmatic and talented frontwomen.
Read More: Top 10 Evanescence Songs
# 21 – Belinda Carlisle
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Belinda Carlisle first rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the pioneering all-female rock band The Go-Go’s, who became a staple of the 1980s music scene with hits like “We Got the Beat” and “Our Lips Are Sealed.” As the band’s popularity skyrocketed, so did Carlisle’s image as the charismatic and energetic frontwoman. When she embarked on a solo career in 1985, she found even more success with hits like “Heaven is a Place on Earth” and “Circle in the Sand,” cementing her as a pop-rock icon. Known for her bright, warm smile and vibrant style, Carlisle’s look and sound epitomized the infectious spirit of the ‘80s.
Read More: Top 10 Belinda Carlisle Songs
# 20 – Sharon den Adel – Within Temptation
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Sharon den Adel, the charismatic lead vocalist of the Dutch symphonic metal band Within Temptation, has captivated audiences worldwide with her stunning vocal range and striking stage presence. Hailing from the Netherlands, Sharon co-founded Within Temptation in 1996 alongside guitarist Robert Westerholt, marking the beginning of a career that would lead the band to international acclaim. Her powerful, ethereal voice has been a defining feature in the band’s catalog, with standout albums such as Mother Earth, The Silent Force, and Hydra, which have solidified their place in the symphonic and gothic metal genres. In the image, Sharon exudes both elegance and strength, dressed in a corset that enhances her commanding presence on stage. Her expressive performance style, as seen in this shot, captures the emotional intensity she brings to every performance, making her not only a talented musician but also one of the most visually compelling figures in rock.
# 19 – Cindy Blackman
Photo: Mandy Hall, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Cindy Blackman, an exceptional drummer and vocalist known for her work in jazz and rock, has carved a distinct place in music history with her dynamic style and remarkable talent. Originally from Yellow Springs, Ohio, Cindy’s career took off as a jazz drummer, with early influences from legends like Art Blakey and Tony Williams. She rose to prominence in the rock world as the touring drummer for Lenny Kravitz, where her powerful rhythms on songs like “Are You Gonna Go My Way” left an indelible mark. Later, she expanded her career further by collaborating with her husband, Carlos Santana, both on stage and in the studio.
Read More: Cindy Blackman of Santana: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 18 – Carly Simon
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Carly Simon, an American singer-songwriter and icon of the 1970s, captivated audiences with her sultry voice, introspective lyrics, and radiant beauty. Born in New York City, Simon achieved her first taste of fame with the release of Anticipation in 1971, and quickly followed it with the chart-topping single “You’re So Vain” from her 1972 album No Secrets. Known for her sophisticated, confessional style, Simon’s songs often delve into themes of love, betrayal, and identity. In this promotional photograph, her relaxed smile and confident gaze capture her natural charisma and timeless appeal, both of which have contributed to her legacy as one of rock and pop’s most alluring figures.
Read More: Top 10 Carly Simon Songs
# 17 – Ronnie Spector
Photo: General Artists Corporation-GAC (management)-photographer-James Kriegsmann, New York., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Ronnie Spector, born Veronica Bennett, was a pioneering voice and face of rock and roll and the unforgettable lead singer of The Ronettes. Emerging from Spanish Harlem, Spector and her band became icons of the 1960s with hits like “Be My Baby,” known for its lush production and her powerful yet vulnerable vocals. Her signature look—heavy eyeliner, sky-high beehive hair, and a captivatingly confident stare—became iconic, defining an era of rock and roll glamour. The photo above from the height of her fame captures her intense, smoldering beauty and rock-star attitude, qualities that helped her become an enduring symbol of girl-group cool and rebellion.
Read More: Top 10 Ronnie Spector Songs
# 16 – Camilla Cabello
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Camila Cabello, a Cuban-American singer and songwriter, first gained fame as a member of the girl group Fifth Harmony before embarking on a successful solo career. She quickly made her mark with hits like “Havana” and “Señorita,” showcasing her distinctive voice and Latin-influenced pop style. Known for her passionate performances and infectious personality, Cabello has become a prominent figure in pop music, often celebrating her Cuban heritage and connecting with fans worldwide. In this image, her confident and sultry look highlights her effortless charisma and star quality, traits that have made her a beloved artist in the music industry
Read More: Top 10 Camila Cabello Songs
# 15 – Joss Stone
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Joss Stone, the soulful British singer-songwriter, rose to fame with her debut album The Soul Sessions in 2003, which brought classic soul and R&B back into the spotlight with her unique, powerful voice. Known for hits like “Super Duper Love” and “Right to Be Wrong,” Stone has captivated audiences with her raw vocal talent and emotional depth. Her bohemian, earthy style complements her soulful, bluesy sound, establishing her as one of the most authentic voices in modern soul music.
Read More: Top 10 Joss Stone Songs
# 14 – Diana Krall
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Diana Krall, the Canadian jazz pianist and singer, is celebrated for her smooth contralto voice and impeccable piano skills, bringing jazz standards to life with a style that’s both elegant and sensual. Rising to international fame in the late 1990s, Krall’s albums, such as When I Look in Your Eyes and The Look of Love, showcase her sophisticated interpretations and earned her multiple Grammy Awards. Known for her sultry renditions of classics and her ability to balance technical precision with emotional warmth, Krall has solidified her place as one of jazz’s most esteemed artists in contemporary music.
Read More: Top 10 Diana Krall Songs
# 13 – Samantha Fish
Photo: Salamanamanjaro, CC BY-SA<https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Samantha Fish is a powerhouse American blues-rock guitarist and singer who has been electrifying audiences with her gritty vocals and fiery guitar skills. Known for her raw energy and versatile musicianship, Fish rose to prominence in the 2010s with albums like Runaway and Black Wind Howlin’, showcasing her fierce dedication to blues, rock, and a touch of country influence. In this photo, Fish commands the stage with her signature style—her glamorous dress juxtaposed with her rugged, hard-hitting guitar work. Her ability to blend soulful vocals with searing guitar solos has cemented her reputation as one of the most exciting contemporary blues musicians.
Read More: Complete List Of Samantha Fish Albums And Discography
# 12 – Whitney Houston
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Whitney Houston, often regarded as “The Voice,” is an American icon whose remarkable vocal range and power redefined pop and R&B in the 1980s and 1990s. Born into a musical family, with gospel singer Cissy Houston as her mother and Dionne Warwick as her cousin, Whitney was destined for greatness. Her self-titled debut album, Whitney Houston, delivered timeless hits like “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know,” propelling her to international stardom. Known for her impeccable vocal technique and emotive delivery, she went on to become one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Just look at her in this photo and how her radiant smile and sparkling attire reflect the glamour and grace that she brought to every stage, leaving an indelible legacy in music and pop culture.
Read More: Top 10 Whitney Houston Songs
# 11 – Michelle Phillips
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Michelle Phillips, a founding member of The Mamas and the Papas, became an icon of the 1960s folk-rock scene with her ethereal voice and natural beauty. Born in Long Beach, California, Phillips brought a distinct lightness to the group’s harmonies on hits like “California Dreamin’” and “Monday, Monday.” Beyond her musical career, she transitioned into acting, appearing in films and television, which showcased her talent beyond the music world. As you can see in the photo above, her serene expression, embodying the timeless appeal and introspective beauty made her a captivating presence in the rock and entertainment worlds.
Read More: Top 10 Mamas And The Papas Songs
# 10 – Grace Potter
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Grace Potter, known for her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence, rose to fame as the lead singer of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. Hailing from Vermont, Potter is a multi-talented artist who not only sings but also plays guitar and piano with equal flair. Her music blends rock, blues, and soul, creating an electrifying sound that resonates with fans of all ages. With albums like The Lion the Beast the Beat and Midnight, Potter has solidified her place in modern rock, celebrated for her vocal range and charismatic live performances. Her image often captures the essence of a rock star with a free spirit, embodying the energy and passion she brings to her music.
Read More: Top 10 Grace Potter And The Nocturnals Songs
# 9 – Sheryl Crow
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Sheryl Crow, an American rock, pop, and country icon, has been captivating audiences since the early 1990s with her unique blend of genres and heartfelt songwriting. Born in Missouri, Crow first gained attention with her breakout album, Tuesday Night Music Club, which featured hits like “All I Wanna Do” and “Strong Enough.” Over her career, she has released multiple chart-topping albums, won nine Grammy Awards, and collaborated with legends like Eric Clapton, Mick Jagger, and Stevie Nicks. Known for her natural beauty and laid-back style, Crow embodies an effortless cool, both on and off stage. With her timeless sound and relatable lyrics, she has cemented herself as a beloved figure in the rock and pop music world.
Read More: Top 10 Sheryl Crow Songs
# 8 – Debbie Harry
Photo: Brian McLaughlin; Distributed by Chrysalis Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Debbie Harry, the legendary frontwoman of the band Blondie, is one of rock’s most iconic figures. Born in Miami and raised in New Jersey, Harry became a defining face of the New York punk and new wave scenes in the 1970s. With her distinctive voice and striking style, she led Blondie to international success with hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “One Way or Another.” Known for her platinum blonde hair, punk attitude, and a look that combined glamour with gritty edge, Harry broke boundaries for female rockers and became a fashion and cultural icon. Her influence spans generations, as she continues to be celebrated not only for her music but for her role as a trailblazer in rock music.
Read More: Top 10 Blondie Songs
# 7 – Kate Bush
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Kate Bush, the British singer-songwriter and producer, is renowned for her ethereal voice, poetic lyrics, and experimental approach to music. She burst onto the music scene in 1978 with her debut single “Wuthering Heights,” becoming the first female artist to reach number one in the UK with a self-written song. Known for her theatrical performances and genre-blending style that spans art rock, progressive pop, and alternative, Bush’s influence is monumental in the music industry. Albums like Hounds of Love and The Kick Inside showcase her unique storytelling and innovative production techniques, solidifying her status as a visionary artist. This haunting portrait reflects her enigmatic presence and the mystique that has made her one of the most revered figures in modern music.
Read More: Top 10 Kate Bush Songs
# 6 – Susanna Hoffs
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Susanna Hoffs, the charismatic lead singer of The Bangles, captivated audiences with her expressive voice and vibrant stage presence. Known for hits like “Walk Like an Egyptian,” “Manic Monday,” and “Eternal Flame,” The Bangles became a defining band of the 1980s pop-rock era, blending catchy melodies with rock sensibilities. Hoffs’ powerful vocals and her iconic side-glance in music videos made her a standout figure in music. Just look at her timeless beauty and enduring charm in this photo.
Read More: Top 10 Susanna Hoffs Songs
# 5 – Nancy Wilson
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Nancy Wilson, guitarist and vocalist of Heart, has become a rock icon with her electrifying performances and impressive musicianship. Hailing from Seattle, she and her sister Ann Wilson led Heart to fame with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” and “Barracuda,” merging hard rock with folk and blues influences. Known for her fiery guitar skills and captivating voice, Nancy has been instrumental in crafting Heart’s distinctive sound and remains an influential figure in rock. We love this photo with her sporting a stylish top hat, highlights her charismatic presence and unique flair, a testament to her role as a trailblazer for women in rock.
Read More: 11 Best Heart Songs Sung By Nancy Wilson
# 4 – Linda Ronstadt
Larry Bessel, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Linda Ronstadt, an influential voice in rock, folk, and country, became a sensation in the 1970s and ’80s with her rich vocals and genre-crossing appeal. Known for hits like “You’re No Good,” “Blue Bayou,” and “When Will I Be Loved,” she effortlessly blended rock, country, and pop, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and a devoted fan base. In this relaxed photo, barefoot and leaning on a porch railing like the girl next door, Ronstadt radiates a natural charm that mirrors her effortless approach to music. Her impact on American music is undeniable, as she remains one of the most versatile and admired female vocalists of her time. We all wish we had a neighbor like Linda.
Read More: Linda Ronstadt’s Best Song On Each Of Her 1970s Studio Albums
# 3 – Rihanna
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Rihanna, a global icon and powerhouse in music, fashion, and beauty, hails from Barbados and burst onto the music scene in 2005 with her debut single “Pon de Replay.” She has since become one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with hits like “Umbrella,” “Diamonds,” and “We Found Love.” Known for her bold style and fearless image, Rihanna’s influence spans far beyond music as she continues to redefine beauty and fashion standards through her Fenty brand. In this striking image, Rihanna’s intense gaze and sophisticated attire highlight her poise and effortless confidence, embodying the star power that has made her a cultural phenomenon worldwide.
Read More: Ultimate Rihanna Page
# 2 – Grace Slick
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Grace Slick, one of rock’s most iconic and influential female voices, rose to fame as the lead singer of Jefferson Airplane in the 1960s, a pivotal band in the San Francisco psychedelic rock scene. Known for her powerful vocals and bold stage presence, she helped define the countercultural sound of the era with songs like “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.” Her work with Jefferson Airplane, and later Jefferson Starship, left an indelible mark on rock music.
Read More: A Look Back At Grace Slick’s Great Society Band
# 1 – Stevie Nicks
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Stevie Nicks, widely recognized for her mystical stage presence and ethereal voice, became a rock icon as a member of Fleetwood Mac and through her successful solo career. Joining Fleetwood Mac in 1975, she contributed timeless songs like “Rhiannon,” “Landslide,” and “Dreams,” helping to catapult the band to unprecedented success. Known for her distinctive, bohemian style and hauntingly poetic lyrics, Nicks carved a unique place in rock history. This vintage photo captures her as the embodiment of 1970s rock mystique, with her wavy hair and friendly but curious expression, illustrating why she remains one of rock’s most enigmatic and beloved female artists.
Read More: 10 Most Underrated Stevie Nicks Songs.
Musicians Who Should Have Been On The List, But We Just Ran Out of Room
Pat Benatar
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Christine McVie
Warner Bros. Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Suzi Quarto
AVRO, CC BY-SA 3.0 NL <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/nl/deed.en>, via Wikimedia Commons
Rebecca Lovell – Larkin Poe
Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
Alison Krauss
carrie-nelson / Shutterstock.com
Carrie Underwood
Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
Lita Ford
DFree / Shutterstock.com
Susan Tedeschi
S. Kuelcue / Shutterstock.com
Siouxie Sioux
Marianne Faithfull
Joan Jett
Donna Summer
Patty Smythe
Martina McBride
Sheena Easton
Nico
Kate Pierson
Diana Ross
Faith Hill
Courtney Love
Chrissie Hynde
Debbi Peterson
Vicki Peterson
Kim Deal
Annette Zilinskas
Sonja Kristina
Tori Amos
Aimee Mann
Wendy Coleman
Lisa Melvin
25 Best Looking Female Rock And Pop Singers Of All Time article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
All attractive, particularly in their heyday, and some still currently; many of which I personally had a “crush” on, as well as matching their talent, especially Olivia Newton-John, Carly Simon, Grace Potter, Linda Ronstadt, Joss Stone, and Kate Bush.
Surprisingly, one female artist that many of us of the era were enamored with, both in appearance and musically, is not on the list – Pat Benatar.
Her HBO special during her peak popularity (I think broadcast around 1982 or 1983), really turned a lot of male heads, as well as our ears.