Top 1980s Female Rock Artists

The top 1980s female rock artists were often eclipsed by the pop stars of the era. There were many new female rock artists that emerged during the 1980s. The top 1980s female rock artists were influential and many remain popular to this day. 

Pat Benatar

Pat Benatar dabbled in other musical genres but stayed true to her rock roots. She's one of the top 1980s female rock artists because she was a prolific songwriter, as well as a fashion icon. One of her biggest hits was the song "Hit Me With Your Best Shot."

Joan Jett

Joan Jett emerged as one of the top independent 1980s female rock artists after founding and playing in the band "The Runaways." She mixed together aspects of punk rock and heavy metal into her mainstream rock music. Joan Jett was a touch androgynous which set her apart from other female rock musicians.

Tina Turner

Tina Turner offered more to the 1980s than the gorgeous gams she was known for. She was one of the top 1980s female rock stars due to her soulful voice. Tina Turner had a background in R&B and funk music and that gave her music a different appeal from most other female vocalists in the 1980s. One of her biggest hits was the song "Better Be Good to Me."

Annie Lennox

Annie Lennox became popular during the end of the 1980s. She was the female vocalist for "The Eurythmics." Her soulful style mixed with power vocals made her one of the top 1980s female rock artists. One of the band's most popular hits was "Here Comes the Rain Again."