Celebrating Iconic Women in Music on International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, we honor the voices that have shaped and transformed the music industry throughout the decades. From jazz and blues to pop and soul, these legendary women have defined generations with their groundbreaking talent, and their influence continues to resonate in music today.
Here are 10 iconic female artists from the last 100 years who’ve left an unforgettable mark on the world of music:
1. Billie Holiday (1930s-1950s)
A jazz and blues icon, Billie Holiday's emotive voice made her a legend with tracks like Strange Fruit and God Bless the Child. Her music often confronted social issues, especially racial injustice, making her not just a musician but a voice of change. Her deep emotional expression continues to inspire artists across genres today.
Shop Billie Holiday "Lady in Satin" here
2. Ella Fitzgerald (1930s-1960s)
Known as the "First Lady of Song," Ella’s career spanned five decades. Her impeccable vocal technique and timeless jazz standards like Summertime and Dream a Little Dream of Me earned her a place as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Ella's influence on jazz, and music as a whole, is immeasurable.
3. Diana Ross (1960s-1980s)
Diana Ross rose to fame in the 1960s as the lead singer of The Supremes, one of Motown’s most successful acts. Her smooth voice and radiant stage presence helped shape the sound of Motown, and her solo career skyrocketed with hits like Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. She remains a cultural and musical icon.
4. Janis Joplin (1960s-1970s)
A rock and blues trailblazer, Janis Joplin's powerful, soulful voice and raw, emotional performances set her apart. Hits like Piece of My Heart and Cry Baby showcased her ability to pour everything into her music. Her rebellious spirit made her one of the most influential artists of the late 1960s.
5. Tina Turner (1960s-1990s)
The “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Tina Turner's electric performances and hits like What’s Love Got to Do with It and Proud Mary cemented her status as a global superstar. Her dynamic voice and energy made her a force in the music world, and her legacy continues to inspire artists of all genres.
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6. Roberta Flack (1970s-1980s)
With her smooth, soulful voice, Roberta Flack dominated the 1970s with classics like Killing Me Softly and The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. Her music combined emotion and elegance, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying her place in music history.
7. Madonna (1980s-present)
The "Queen of Pop," Madonna rose to fame in the 1980s with a career defined by reinvention. From Like a Prayer to Vogue, she has been a trendsetter in music, fashion, and culture. Her influence on pop music is unmatched, and she continues to push boundaries, remaining relevant in the music industry decades later.
Shop our featured Madonna albums here
8. Celine Dion (1990s-present)
Celine Dion’s powerful ballads dominated the 1990s, with songs like My Heart Will Go On becoming iconic across the globe. Known for her incredible vocal range and emotional depth, Celine continues to inspire audiences with her timeless performances and international success.
9. Alicia Keys (2000s-present)
Alicia Keys burst onto the music scene in the early 2000s with her classically trained piano skills and soulful voice. Her debut single Fallin’ won multiple Grammys, and she continues to inspire with anthems like Girl on Fire, blending R&B, soul, and classical influences to create her unique sound.
Shop our must-have Alicia Keys albums here
10. Adele (2000s-present)
With her soul-stirring voice and emotionally resonant ballads, Adele has become one of the best-selling artists of the 21st century. Tracks like Someone Like You and Hello have touched millions of hearts, and her authenticity and powerful voice continue to captivate global audiences.
There are so many others unnamed that have made a mark on the last 100 years of music, there’s no way we could include them all.