Poison Ivy of The Cramps, iconic female guitarist
The exciting truth about the best female guitarists is that there are simply too many to list comprehensively, even beyond a list of 25. Their legacy stretches back to the very foundations of gospel, country, folk, and rock music. While your personal favorite might not be on this list, we’ve aimed to include the women who shone brightest, those who forged unique styles, played pivotal roles in iconic bands, or set the standard for generations to come. This compilation of the best female guitarists celebrates some of the most influential musicians ever to record, including a few who were secretly admired and emulated by male guitar heroes.
If you’re seeking a refreshing alternative to typical guitar heroics, this rundown of 25 of the best female guitarists of all time is definitely for you.
25: Sarah Lipstate (Noveller)
Sarah Lipstate, known as Noveller, is a master of sonic landscapes. She utilizes looping techniques to craft expansive and immersive atmospheres, drawing comparisons to pioneers like Rhys Chatham, with whom she has collaborated, and Robert Fripp. However, beneath the layers of feedback and texture, Lipstate maintains an indie rock sensibility for song structure. The melodic core of her pieces, though often veiled, is always present. It’s no surprise that adventurous rock artists like St Vincent and Iggy Pop have invited her to tour with them, recognizing her unique talent.
24: Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker (Sleater-Kinney)
Carrie Brownstein often receives the spotlight, particularly for her dynamic solos, but the true magic of Sleater-Kinney’s guitar work resided in the intricate interplay between Brownstein and Corin Tucker. Notably lacking a bass guitar, Sleater-Kinney ingeniously created basslines through Tucker’s harmonizer, which she employed when not laying down their signature, angular rhythms. Their guitar collaboration is a study in both mathematical precision and raw, controlled energy. Beyond Sleater-Kinney, Tucker’s guitar skills have been showcased on several Eddie Vedder solo projects.
23: Felicia Collins
For many in the US, Felicia Collins is synonymous with her role as the dynamic lead guitarist for the house band of Late Night With David Letterman. A funk specialist at her core, Collins possessed the remarkable ability of a seasoned TV orchestra musician to seamlessly adapt to the musical style of any guest. Prior to her late-night television fame, she was deeply embedded in Nile Rodgers’ musical network, collaborating with numerous artists he produced, including Madonna, and even making guest appearances in the legendary P-Funk universe. If the Thompson Twins sounded exceptionally funky at Live Aid, Felicia Collins was the secret ingredient.
22: Vicki Peterson (The Bangles)
In contrast to their Los Angeles contemporaries The Go-Go’s, who leaned into the vocal harmonies of the “girl group” sound, The Bangles drew their primary influences from mid-60s garage rock. Their early performances frequently included covers of The Yardbirds’ “I’m Not Talkin'” and The Seeds’ “Pushin’ Too Hard,” songs they carried into their mainstream success era. Vicki Peterson’s often-understated lead guitar playing served as The Bangles’ secret weapon. As the band evolved, Peterson’s guitar vocabulary expanded to encompass power-pop jangle, driving power chords, George Harrison-esque melodic leads, and any style the songs demanded, firmly establishing her place among the best female guitarists. Beyond her guitar prowess, Peterson was also a significant songwriter for the band.
21: Wendy Melvoin (The Revolution, Wendy & Lisa)
The impact of Wendy Melvoin and her musical partner Lisa Coleman on Prince’s artistic trajectory cannot be overstated. Their arrival in Prince’s world marked a turning point, introducing him to the vibrant sounds of psychedelic music. The iconic film Purple Rain cemented Melvoin’s status as one of the best female guitarists, prominently featuring her crucial role in crafting the legendary title track. Later, in their own project Wendy & Lisa, Melvoin demonstrated that Prince wasn’t the only source of funky riffs and scorching solos in The Revolution. Her diverse talents have led her to collaborations with artists like Madonna and Neil Finn in his solo endeavors.
20: Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s distinctive and lyrical acoustic guitar playing on her early albums alone would warrant her inclusion among the best female guitarists. As her musical explorations progressed into electric instrumentation, she collaborated with guitar luminaries like James Burton and Larry Carlton. However, as Mitchell’s compositions became increasingly sophisticated and harmonically rich, external musicians found it challenging to navigate their complexities. Ultimately, Mitchell took on a greater role herself, playing approximately half the lead guitar parts on Hejira, including the notable jazz-infused riffs in “Coyote,” all but one lead on Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter, and all lead guitar work on Mingus. In doing so, she held her own alongside some of the most esteemed jazz musicians of the time, including Wayne Shorter and Jaco Pastorius. Her command of the guitar speaks for itself.
19: Dot Wiggin (The Shaggs)
Think playing guitar parts for The Shaggs doesn’t require genuine musicianship? Try replicating them yourself. At this juncture, whether The Shaggs – the late-60s sister garage band that defied conventional musical logic – were accidental geniuses or simply a stroke of luck is almost irrelevant. As female guitarists, their influence has surpassed countless more conventional bands. Dot Wiggin’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, often in completely independent rhythms (while the drummer carved out yet another rhythmic path), demanded remarkable focus and a unique musical sensibility. Furthermore, the enduring tradition of female indie-rock trios utilizing two guitars instead of a bass? They arguably pioneered that too.
18: Melissa Etheridge
Melissa Etheridge stands out as perhaps the contemporary guitarist who most embodies the Pete Townshend tradition of aggressively playing an acoustic guitar as if it were a high-volume electric – or a personal adversary. This powerful approach likely stems from her years honing her craft in coffeehouses. Her closely-miked acoustic guitar provides the central instrumental hook in many of her signature hits. While her bands typically include a (male) lead guitarist, they often take a supportive role when Etheridge’s own passionate playing takes over.
17: Annie Clark (St Vincent)
During her Masseduction tour, Annie Clark, known as St Vincent, broke new ground, possibly being the first lead guitarist to use a different DayGlo pastel-colored guitar for each song – each a variation of the custom signature guitar designed for her by Ernie Ball. Her playing was as vibrant and striking as the instruments themselves. Clark is a fluid and imaginative soloist in the vein of Robert Fripp and Frank Zappa, building solos around intricate melodic contours. However, she is equally adept as a dance-pop songwriter, seamlessly integrating her sophisticated rhythm guitar work into tracks like “Slow Disco.”
16: Joan Jett (Joan Jett And The Blackhearts)
Joan Jett has never professed to be a virtuoso lead guitarist, and has consistently included lead guitarists in her bands. However, the very essence of punk guitar – rhythm chords delivered with urgency and unwavering precision – is deeply ingrained in her musical DNA. While she may not receive the label frequently, her guitar work is arguably as influential as that of her Runaways bandmate, Lita Ford. Yet, as always, Jett remains too dedicated to rocking to be concerned with debates about the best female guitarists; she simply embodies the spirit.
15: Orianthi
Orianthi initially gained attention playing alongside Carrie Underwood, and was slated to tour with Michael Jackson on his final tour. However, this Australian guitarist’s primary achievement lies in dismantling the boundaries of classic rock guitar. She possesses the grit to play lead guitar with Alice Cooper, trade guitar riffs with Steve Vai, and co-found the duo RSO with Richie Sambora. Her rendition of “Hellbound Train” is arguably the finest Savoy Brown cover ever recorded, regardless of gender. While her partnership with Sambora has ended, Orianthi remains a formidable and independent musical force.
14: Bonnie Raitt
You would need to delve deeply into the pantheon of 70s rock heroes to discover a slide guitarist with a more distinctive and recognizable sound than Bonnie Raitt. One of her primary influences, Little Feat’s Lowell George, was both a collaborator and a devoted admirer. While Raitt maintains a presence in the singer-songwriter realm, her guitar playing is the unwavering link to her deep blues roots. Though her bands typically include a guitarist to handle lyrical passages, the most electrifying and emotionally charged guitar moments invariably come from Raitt herself.
13: Nancy Wilson (Heart)
Nancy Wilson holds the distinction of being the first female guitarist to lead a chart-topping rock band. Along with her sister Ann, Nancy is a core, consistent member of Heart. While the band has featured other lead guitarists, the first – and arguably most iconic – guitar moment in their extensive catalog belongs to Nancy: the acoustic transition from “Dreamboat Annie” into “Crazy On You.” It is largely thanks to Nancy that Heart’s artful acoustic side has consistently coexisted with their powerful electric sound, even during their arena rock era of the 80s. She also played a significant role in composing nearly every famous song the band ever recorded.
12: Poison Ivy (The Cramps)
Poison Ivy was arguably the most visually and sonically distinctive guitarist in the entire US punk movement. You can instantly recognize a Cramps song, often before lead singer Lux Interior even begins to sing. Poison Ivy re-established punk’s connection to its primal roots in trashy rockabilly and twangy guitar sounds, contributing to a renewed appreciation for artists like Link Wray and The Ventures’ Nokie Edwards. Her place among the best female guitarists is secured by the sleazy, unforgettable riffs that formed the backbone of Cramps songs, and she evolved into a highly skilled soloist as their albums progressed. Her innovative use of reverb is unmatched. Ivy has maintained a low profile since the passing of her partner Lux, and her unique musical voice is deeply missed.
11: Marnie Stern
Blending a shredder’s technical speed with an indie rocker’s artistic sensibility, Marnie Stern embodies the modern definition of a guitar hero. You don’t even need to be a guitar enthusiast to appreciate her concept album, The Chronicles Of Marnia, which is full of cleverly constructed pop hooks. However, if you are a guitar player, you’ll marvel at the inventiveness of her rapid runs and her efficient approach to songwriting. Across five albums, she has yet to release a song exceeding four and a half minutes in length. If Eddie Van Halen had been a member of Sleater-Kinney… it still might not have been as uniquely compelling as Marnie Stern.
10: Kristin Hersh (Throwing Muses)
Kristin Hersh is a consistently underrated figure who deserves to be recognized alongside Bob Mould and J Mascis as a pioneering indie-rock guitarist. Her distinctive guitar sound is instantly recognizable. Easily one of the best female guitarists of the 80s and 90s, Hersh can deliver furious, mind-melting lead guitar work and distorted power chords, then seamlessly transition to acoustic guitar and play with remarkable elegance. She truly came into her own around the time Throwing Muses streamlined into a power trio (their later albums are masterclasses in revitalizing that format). Her more recent solo albums, where she also plays bass, further showcase the breadth of her musical capabilities.
9: Susan Tedeschi (Tedeschi Trucks Band)
Any jam-band aficionado will confirm that the Tedeschi Trucks Band is not simply a band featuring a female and male guitarist or a married couple; it is a band with two exceptional guitarists, full stop. What’s remarkable is the mutual growth they’ve experienced as musicians since joining forces. Tedeschi has absorbed her partner Derek Trucks’ jazz influences, while Trucks has embraced her R&B sensibilities. For a prime example of Tedeschi at her peak, watch the video clip of her performing “Crossroads” alongside Eric Clapton at his festival. Note the wide smile that spreads across Clapton’s face after her guitar solo – a testament to her skill.
8: Kaki King
Kaki King stands apart from many of the best female guitarists on this list. She is more accurately described as a modern composer who happens to be a guitar virtuoso. Her pieces are rich with elements of modern classical music, progressive jazz, and occasional forays into satisfying pop melodies. Whether collaborating with classical or rock musicians, King elevates acoustic guitar to new levels with a percussive technique that is part flamenco and part Van Halen-esque tapping. She could have easily built a career on showy techniques, but her recent work – including the conceptual piece The Neck Is A Bridge To The Body – reveals her deeper artistic ambitions.
7: Peggy Jones
Peggy Jones, better known as Lady Bo, made history as the first female guitarist in a major rock and roll band. She joined Bo Diddley’s group at the young age of 16 and played on many of his classic singles, including “Mona,” “Crackin’ Up,” and “Bo Diddley’s A Gunslinger.” Later, she contributed to numerous singles highly sought after by record collectors, such as Les Cooper’s “Oowee Baby” and The Soul Rockers’ “Wiggle Wobble.” She even had a stint in James Brown’s band for a period. Peggy Jones continued performing as Lady Bo until her passing in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as a true pioneer.
6: Liona Boyd
Liona Boyd, born in London and raised in Toronto, was both a classical guitar prodigy and a television personality in the 1970s. Marketed as the “first lady of the guitar,” she was an early protégé of Andrés Segovia and performed at Carnegie Hall in 1975. Boyd became a familiar face on Canadian television and, though less publicly known at the time, was romantically involved with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Many favor her classical recordings, with highlights compiled on her 20th Century Masters volume. However, she gradually transitioned into New Age music, increasingly focusing on vocals after a neurological condition impacted her guitar playing.
5: Emily Remler
Like many guitarists from New Jersey, Emily Remler’s early musical experiences were rooted in rock. However, her musical world expanded significantly after studying at Berklee College Of Music, where she discovered the music of Charlie Christian and Wes Montgomery. She quickly became recognized as a leading modern guitarist in the bebop tradition, approaching jazz standards with a fluid tone and boundless creativity. Remler recorded extensively throughout her tragically short career, collaborating with artists like Larry Coryell and Astrud Gilberto. During a brief period in New Orleans, she also played with funk and R&B bands, though no recordings from this period are known to exist. Like Montgomery, her life was cut short, and we can only imagine what she might have accomplished had addiction not claimed her life at age 32.
4: Memphis Minnie
One of the earliest guitar pioneers, Lizzie Douglas, better known as Memphis Minnie, taught herself guitar and banjo, and honed her skills in the vibrant Beale Street blues scene in Memphis. She recorded for major labels like Columbia, Checker, Decca, and Okeh, and was instrumental in the urbanization of the blues sound. Without question, one of the best female guitarists in history, this fearless blueswoman even engaged in – and won – numerous “cutting contests” against blues giants like Big Bill Broonzy and Muddy Waters.
3: Elizabeth Cotten
The groundbreaking folk and blues musician Elizabeth Cotten developed her unique guitar style almost by accident. Left-handed, she initially learned to play her right-handed brother’s banjo upside down. When she transitioned to guitar, she retained the instincts of a banjo player, and because the instrument was still reversed, she fingerpicked the bass strings while using her thumb for the melody lines. This distinctive “Cotten picking” style is notoriously difficult to master, which might explain why no two versions of her signature song, “Freight Train,” sound quite identical.
2: Mother Maybelle Carter
A monumental influence on country guitar playing, Mother Maybelle Carter earns her high ranking among the best female guitarists through her invention of the influential style known as thumb brush, the church lick, and most famously, Carter Family picking. Potentially inspired by banjo techniques, Maybelle used her thumb to pick melody notes on the bass strings while simultaneously strumming rhythms on the higher strings. This innovative approach made the Carter Family trio sound like they had multiple guitars backing them. Guitar legends like Doc Watson, Chet Atkins, and her son-in-law Johnny Cash all recognized and were influenced by her groundbreaking technique.
1: Sister Rosetta Tharpe
No, the devil didn’t have all the good songs, or even all the great guitarists. Topping this list of the best female guitarists in history is the early gospel innovator who truly pioneered many of the distorted guitar tones that blues and rock players would later adopt. Even before that, Sister Rosetta Tharpe recorded some of the most fluid and expressive acoustic lead guitar playing on record. On her 1945 hit “Strange Things Happening Every Day,” she seamlessly blended country, jazz, and gospel, all in service of deeply felt spiritual expression. To witness her full power, seek out the live video of her performance of “Up Above My Head (I Hear Music In The Air).” While the original 1948 single doesn’t feature a solo, this live performance, circa 1963, showcases her proto-shredding while a full choir claps along. There’s a touch of Muddy Waters, a hint of Chuck Berry, and an overwhelming sense of jubilation before she exclaims, “Let’s do that again!” Yes, Sister, please do.
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