The electrifying world of guitar playing has long been perceived as a male-dominated arena, but the truth is a vibrant and powerful history of Female Guitar Players exists, stretching back to the very roots of modern music. Far from being a novelty, these women have been pioneers, innovators, and virtuosos, shaping genres, inspiring generations, and consistently proving that talent knows no gender. While a single list of 25 names can barely scratch the surface of this rich tapestry, we aim to spotlight some of the most groundbreaking and influential female guitar players who have not only mastered their instrument but have redefined what it means to play guitar.
From the foundational sounds of gospel, country, folk, and blues to the explosive energy of rock and beyond, female guitar players have been integral to the evolution of music. This list isn’t just about technical prowess; it’s about recognizing the artists who forged unique styles, became cornerstones of iconic bands, and laid down legendary tracks that continue to resonate. Your personal favorite female guitarist might not be explicitly named here, but consider this a celebration of all the women who have picked up a guitar and plugged into their passion. These are the female guitar players who not only played the instrument but elevated it, often in the face of societal expectations and industry biases. They are the trailblazers, the innovators, and the undeniable forces who have earned their place in music history, and it’s time to turn up the volume and give them the recognition they deserve.
25: Sarah Lipstate (Noveller)
Sarah Lipstate of Noveller performing live, showcasing her ambient guitar looping techniques.
Sarah Lipstate, known musically as Noveller, is a contemporary master of sonic architecture. She’s not just playing guitar; she’s crafting immersive soundscapes. Lipstate’s expertise lies in her masterful use of looping pedals and effects, transforming her guitar into an orchestra of textures and atmospheres. Drawing inspiration from minimalist composers like Rhys Chatham, with whom she has collaborated, and the experimental soundscapes of Robert Fripp, Noveller transcends traditional song structures. While her work is often layered with feedback and distortion, beneath the surface lies a keen understanding of melody and sonic logic. This unique blend of experimental sound and underlying songcraft has garnered her attention from across the musical spectrum. From indie rock luminaries like St. Vincent to punk icon Iggy Pop, diverse artists have recognized and invited Noveller to share her captivating sonic world with their audiences, solidifying her position as a cutting-edge female guitar player.
24: Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker (Sleater-Kinney)
Sleater-Kinney redefined guitar-driven rock, and at its heart were the dynamic duo of Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker. While Brownstein, often taking the lead guitar role, frequently receives accolades for her energetic solos, the true magic of Sleater-Kinney’s guitar work resided in the intricate and powerful interplay between Brownstein and Tucker. Notably, the band operated without a bass guitar, a sonic void brilliantly filled by Tucker. Using a harmonizer, she crafted deep basslines while simultaneously delivering signature choppy rhythms that became a hallmark of Sleater-Kinney’s sound. Their guitar partnership was a marvel of both precision and raw, controlled energy. The interlocking riffs and counter-melodies were mathematically tight yet brimming with punk fury. Beyond Sleater-Kinney, Tucker’s guitar talents have also been showcased on several solo albums by Eddie Vedder, further highlighting her versatility and skill as a female guitar player.
23: Felicia Collins
For millions of television viewers, Felicia Collins is synonymous with exceptional guitar playing. As the lead guitarist for the house band on Late Night With David Letterman, Collins showcased her remarkable adaptability and musical breadth night after night. While her foundation is rooted in funk, Collins possessed the rare ability to seamlessly tap into the musical wavelength of any guest, regardless of genre. Prior to her television fame, Collins was deeply embedded in the influential Nile Rodgers musical universe. She collaborated extensively with Rodgers and his roster of artists, including pop icon Madonna, and even made guest appearances with the legendary funk collective P-Funk. Her impact extended beyond studio work; when the Thompson Twins infused funk elements into their Live Aid performance, Felicia Collins was the secret weapon that made it happen, proving her prowess as a versatile and highly sought-after female guitar player.
22: Vicki Peterson (The Bangles)
While often categorized alongside the vocal-centric “girl group” sound, The Bangles’ musical DNA was firmly rooted in the raw energy of mid-1960s garage rock. Their early performances were brimming with covers of garage rock anthems like The Yardbirds’ “I’m Not Talkin'” and The Seeds’ “Pushin’ Too Hard,” influences that carried over into their chart-topping era. Vicki Peterson’s often-understated lead guitar work was The Bangles’ secret weapon, a crucial element in their distinctive sound. As the band evolved, Peterson’s guitar style expanded, incorporating power-pop jangle, driving power chords, and even George Harrison-esque melodic lead lines, adapting her playing to perfectly suit each song. Her versatility and musicality solidified her place among the best female guitar players. Beyond her guitar skills, Peterson was also a significant songwriter for The Bangles, contributing to their enduring success.
21: Wendy Melvoin (The Revolution, Wendy & Lisa)
Wendy Melvoin, in partnership with keyboardist Lisa Coleman, was an undeniable force within Prince’s musical universe. Their arrival marked a pivotal shift in Prince’s sound, introducing him to the vibrant world of psychedelic music, a transformation that profoundly shaped his iconic sound. The film Purple Rain not only cemented Prince’s legendary status but also showcased Melvoin’s guitar prowess to a global audience, firmly establishing her as one of the most influential female guitar players. Her contribution to the iconic title track of Purple Rain is undeniable. Later, as Wendy & Lisa, Melvoin demonstrated that the funky riff-mastery and electrifying solos within The Revolution weren’t solely Prince’s domain. Her talents have continued to be sought after, leading to collaborations with artists like Madonna and Neil Finn, further demonstrating her versatility and impact as a female guitar player.
20: Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s early acoustic guitar work, characterized by its intricate lyricality and unique tunings, was already enough to earn her recognition among notable female guitar players. As her music evolved and she ventured into electric sounds, she collaborated with guitar heavyweights like James Burton and Larry Carlton. However, as Mitchell’s compositions grew more complex and harmonically sophisticated, outside guitarists found it challenging to navigate her intricate musical landscapes. This led Mitchell to take on more of the guitar work herself. She played approximately half of the lead guitar parts on Hejira, including the memorable jazz-infused riffs in “Coyote,” all but one lead on Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter, and all the lead guitar on the jazz-inspired Mingus. In doing so, she not only held her own but shone brightly alongside some of the most celebrated jazz musicians of the era, including Wayne Shorter and Jaco Pastorius, solidifying her reputation as a truly exceptional and innovative female guitar player.
19: Dot Wiggin (The Shaggs)
Dismissing The Shaggs’ guitar playing as simple or unskilled misses the point entirely. Try replicating Dot Wiggin’s guitar parts – the apparent simplicity is deceptive. The Shaggs, a late-1960s garage band comprised of sisters, defied all conventional musical logic, creating a sound that was uniquely their own. Whether their unconventional approach was born from raw, untutored talent or simply a happy accident is almost irrelevant. As female guitar players, The Shaggs proved to be far more influential than countless technically proficient bands. Dot Wiggin’s singing and guitar playing often existed in completely different rhythmic planes, with the drummer operating on yet another rhythmic axis – a testament to their unique and almost avant-garde approach to music. Their impact extends beyond their singular sound; The Shaggs arguably pioneered the tradition of female indie-rock trios utilizing two guitars instead of a bass, further cementing their legacy as groundbreaking female guitar players.
18: Melissa Etheridge
Melissa Etheridge embodies the spirit of Pete Townshend in her fiercely percussive approach to the acoustic guitar. She attacks the instrument with the intensity and energy typically associated with amplified electric guitars. This signature style, honed during her years playing in coffeehouses, is central to her sound. Her closely-miked acoustic guitar often serves as the instrumental hook in her hit songs. While Etheridge’s bands typically include a male lead guitarist, they often take a supporting role when Etheridge’s powerful playing takes center stage. Her raw energy and commanding acoustic guitar presence solidify her position as a force among contemporary female guitar players.
17: Annie Clark (St. Vincent)
Annie Clark, known as St. Vincent, is a visionary guitarist who seamlessly blends technical brilliance with artistic flair. During her Masseduction tour, she famously used a different DayGlo pastel-colored custom signature Ernie Ball guitar for each song, visually mirroring the vibrant nature of her music. Her guitar playing is as striking and dynamic as her stage presence. Clark is a fluid and imaginative soloist, drawing inspiration from the improvisational styles of Robert Fripp and Frank Zappa, crafting solos that are built upon intricate melodic lines rather than simple shredding. However, she is equally adept at crafting infectious dance-pop songs, utilizing her distinctive rhythm guitar riffs to create tracks like “Slow Disco.” St. Vincent’s multifaceted talent as both a songwriter and an innovative guitarist places her firmly among the leading female guitar players of her generation.
16: Joan Jett (Joan Jett and The Blackhearts)
Joan Jett has never claimed to be a virtuoso lead guitarist, and her bands have always included lead players. However, she is the embodiment of punk guitar’s raw essence – rhythm chords delivered with unwavering urgency and precision. This foundational punk guitar style is etched into her musical DNA. While often overshadowed by lead guitarists, Jett’s rhythmic guitar work is arguably just as influential as that of her Runaways bandmate, Lita Ford. But Joan Jett’s focus has always been on the music, on rocking audiences and delivering powerful performances, rather than seeking accolades in lists of best female guitar players. Her enduring impact stems from her powerful rhythm guitar playing and her unwavering commitment to rock and roll.
15: Orianthi
Orianthi burst onto the scene with her undeniable guitar talent, initially gaining attention for her work with Carrie Underwood and her planned involvement in Michael Jackson’s final tour. However, her true achievement lies in her ability to transcend genre boundaries and break down the walls of classic rock. She possesses the technical chops to trade blistering leads with guitar virtuoso Steve Vai, the rock pedigree to play lead guitar for shock-rock icon Alice Cooper, and the versatility to form the duo RSO with Richie Sambora. Her powerful rendition of “Hellbound Train” is considered by many to be the definitive Savoy Brown cover, regardless of gender. Despite recent news of her split from Sambora, Orianthi remains a formidable solo force, a testament to her exceptional talent and drive as a female guitar player.
14: Bonnie Raitt
Bonnie Raitt is a singular voice in blues and rock guitar, particularly renowned for her distinctive slide guitar playing. Within the pantheon of 1970s rock guitar heroes, it’s difficult to find a slide guitarist with a more immediately recognizable and soulful sound. Even Little Feat’s Lowell George, a slide guitar master himself, was both a collaborator and an admirer of Raitt’s work. While rooted in the singer-songwriter tradition, Raitt’s guitar playing is deeply connected to her blues foundation. Although her bands typically include guitarists who handle lyrical passages, the most emotionally charged and electrifying guitar moments in her performances are almost always delivered by Raitt herself, solidifying her status as a premier female guitar player.
13: Nancy Wilson (Heart)
Nancy Wilson holds a unique place in rock history as the first female guitarist to lead a band to the top of the charts. She and her sister Ann are the consistent creative core of Heart. While Heart has featured other talented lead guitarists throughout their career, Nancy Wilson is responsible for one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable guitar moments in their entire catalog: the seamless acoustic transition from “Dreamboat Annie” into the explosive “Crazy On You.” It’s Nancy Wilson’s musical vision that ensured Heart’s artistry embraced both delicate acoustic textures and powerful electric anthems, a balance that persisted even during their 1980s arena rock era. Furthermore, Nancy Wilson has been a key composer for Heart, contributing to nearly every one of their most famous and enduring songs, marking her as a truly influential female guitar player.
12: Poison Ivy (The Cramps)
Poison Ivy, the guitarist for The Cramps, was arguably the most visually and sonically distinctive female guitarist in the American punk scene. You could recognize a Cramps song instantly, often before Lux Interior even began to sing, thanks to Ivy’s signature guitar sound. She effectively reconnected punk rock to its primal roots in trashy rockabilly and twangy surf rock, contributing to the rediscovery of guitar legends like Link Wray and The Ventures’ Nokie Edwards. Poison Ivy’s place among the best female guitar players is secured by the sleazy, hypnotic riffs that formed the foundation of The Cramps’ sound. As the band evolved, she also developed into a skilled and distinctive soloist. Her mastery of reverb is unparalleled, creating a sonic signature that is instantly identifiable. Poison Ivy has remained largely out of the public eye since the passing of her partner Lux Interior, but her influence and unique guitar style are deeply missed.
11: Marnie Stern
Marnie Stern is the modern embodiment of a guitar hero, blending shredding technicality with indie-rock sensibility. Even those who aren’t necessarily drawn to guitar virtuosity can appreciate her songwriting, as evidenced by her concept album The Chronicles Of Marnia, which is packed with cleverly crafted pop hooks. However, for guitar enthusiasts, Stern’s playing is a marvel. Her fast runs are executed with breathtaking precision and imagination, and her sense of economy ensures that even her most complex passages serve the song. Across five albums, she has yet to record a song exceeding four and a half minutes, a testament to her focused and dynamic songwriting. If Eddie Van Halen had joined Sleater-Kinney, the result might approach the exhilarating and unique sound of Marnie Stern, a true force among female guitar players.
10: Kristin Hersh (Throwing Muses)
Kristin Hersh is a perpetually underrated yet profoundly influential figure in indie rock guitar. She stands alongside Bob Mould and J Mascis as a pioneer, possessing a guitar sound that is instantly recognizable. Easily ranked among the best female guitar players of the 1980s and 90s, Hersh can unleash furious, mind-melting lead guitar work and distorted power chords, and then seamlessly transition to delicate and elegant acoustic playing. She truly came into her own when Throwing Muses streamlined into a power trio, with the band’s later albums serving as textbooks in revitalizing that format. Her more recent solo albums, where she also plays bass, further showcase the impressive range of sounds and styles at her command, confirming her status as a highly versatile and influential female guitar player.
9: Susan Tedeschi (Tedeschi Trucks Band)
For jam band aficionados, the Tedeschi Trucks Band is not simply a band featuring a female and male guitarist or a married couple; it’s a band defined by two exceptional guitarists, period. What’s remarkable is the mutual growth and evolution both Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks have experienced as players since joining forces. Tedeschi has incorporated Trucks’ jazz sensibilities into her playing, while Trucks has absorbed her R&B phrasing and soulful approach. To witness Tedeschi at her best, seek out the footage of her performing “Crossroads” alongside Eric Clapton at his Crossroads Guitar Festival. Clapton’s wide grin after Tedeschi’s solo speaks volumes, acknowledging her exceptional talent and soulful guitar playing, firmly placing her among the top female guitar players in contemporary music.
8: Kaki King
Kaki King occupies a unique space among female guitar players. She is more accurately described as a modern composer who utilizes the guitar as her primary instrument. Her pieces are rich with elements of modern classical music, progressive jazz, and satisfying forays into pop structures. Whether collaborating with classical ensembles or rock musicians, King elevates acoustic guitar to new sonic territories, employing a percussive technique that draws inspiration from flamenco and even the tapping techniques of Eddie Van Halen. While she possesses the technical ability to focus on purely virtuosic display, her recent work, including the conceptual piece The Neck Is A Bridge To The Body, reveals her commitment to deeper artistic explorations, establishing her as a truly innovative and forward-thinking female guitar player.
7: Peggy Jones
Peggy Jones, better known as Lady Bo, holds a pioneering position as the first female guitarist in a major rock and roll band. She joined Bo Diddley’s band at the young age of 16 and played guitar on many of his classic singles, including “Mona,” “Crackin’ Up,” and “Bo Diddley’s A Gunslinger.” Her career extended beyond Bo Diddley; she contributed to numerous singles prized by record collectors, such as Les Cooper’s “Oowee Baby” and The Soul Rockers’ “Wiggle Wobble,” and even spent time in James Brown’s band. Peggy Jones continued performing as Lady Bo until her passing in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as a groundbreaking female guitar player who paved the way for countless others.
6: Liona Boyd
Liona Boyd, born in London and raised in Toronto, became both a celebrated classical guitarist and a prominent television personality in the 1970s. Marketed as the “first lady of the guitar,” she was an early protégé of the legendary Andres 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. While her classical recordings, particularly those featured on her 20th Century Masters volume, are highly regarded, she gradually transitioned towards New Age music. A neurological condition later impacted her playing, leading her to focus more on vocals. Nevertheless, Liona Boyd’s early career and classical guitar virtuosity cemented her place as a significant female guitar player, bringing classical guitar to a wider audience.
5: Emily Remler
Emily Remler, like many guitarists from New Jersey, began her musical journey playing rock music. However, her musical horizons expanded dramatically after studying at Berklee College of Music, where she discovered the music of jazz guitar icons Charlie Christian and Wes Montgomery. She quickly emerged as a leading modern guitarist in the bebop tradition, approaching jazz standards with a fluid tone and boundless improvisational imagination. Remler recorded prolifically throughout her tragically short career, collaborating with jazz luminaries 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 Wes Montgomery, Emily Remler’s life and career were cut short by addiction at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional jazz guitar playing and the lingering question of what she might have achieved had she lived longer, solidifying her place as a significant, though often overlooked, female guitar player in jazz.
4: Memphis Minnie
Lizzie Douglas, universally known as Memphis Minnie, was a true pioneer of blues guitar. Self-taught on guitar and banjo, she honed her skills in the vibrant Beale Street blues scene in Memphis. Her recording career was extensive, spanning labels like Columbia, Checker, Decca, and Okeh, and she was a crucial figure in the urbanization of the blues sound. Memphis Minnie is undeniably one of the most important female guitar players in history. This fearless blueswoman was renowned for her competitive spirit, famously engaging in “cutting contests” with blues giants like Big Bill Broonzy and Muddy Waters – and frequently emerging victorious. Her powerful playing and commanding stage presence left an indelible mark on the blues and paved the way for future generations of female guitar players.
3: Elizabeth Cotten
Elizabeth Cotten, a trailblazing figure in folk and blues music, developed her distinctive guitar style through an accidental circumstance. Being 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, still playing an upside-down right-handed guitar, fingerpicked the bass strings while using her thumb to play the melodies. This unique “Cotten picking” style is remarkably challenging to master, which might explain why no two versions of her signature song, “Freight Train,” sound exactly alike. Elizabeth Cotten’s innovative approach to guitar playing and her enduring musical legacy make her a pivotal figure among female guitar players.
2: Mother Maybelle Carter
Mother Maybelle Carter is a foundational figure in country guitar. Her place among the best female guitar players is secured by her invention of a guitar style known by various names: thumb brush, the church lick, but most famously, Carter Family picking. Likely inspired by banjo techniques, Maybelle used her thumb to pick melody lines on the bass strings while simultaneously strumming rhythms on the higher strings with her fingers. This innovative technique created a rich, full sound, making the Carter Family trio sound like they were backed by multiple guitars. Guitar legends like Doc Watson, Chet Atkins, and her son-in-law Johnny Cash all recognized and were influenced by Mother Maybelle’s groundbreaking guitar style, solidifying her legacy as a hugely influential female guitar player in country music.
1: Sister Rosetta Tharpe
Sister Rosetta Tharpe tops this list of the best female guitar players not just for her virtuosity, but for her profound impact on the very DNA of rock and roll. This pioneering gospel artist truly invented many of the distorted guitar tones that would later become hallmarks of blues and rock guitar – but even before the distortion, Sister Rosetta Tharpe recorded some of the most fluid and electrifying acoustic guitar leads ever captured. Her 1945 hit “Strange Things Happening Every Day” seamlessly blended country, jazz, and gospel, all in service of her fervent spiritual expression. To truly appreciate her groundbreaking talent, seek out live video footage of her performing “Up Above My Head (I Hear Music In The Air).” While the original 1948 single doesn’t feature a guitar solo, live performances from around 1963 showcase her proto-shredding guitar work, performed with a full choir clapping along. In her playing, you can hear echoes of Muddy Waters, hints of Chuck Berry, and an overwhelming sense of joy and jubilation. Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s electrifying performances and pioneering guitar techniques make her not just the best female guitar player, but one of the most important and influential guitarists of all time.
Explore further into the world of female musicians who have reshaped music history.
