Ultimate Compilation: Over 100+ Iconic Female Singers of the 90s

In every era of music, there are remarkable female singers who leave a lasting impact, and this held true in the 90s as well. The decade witnessed the rise of numerous talented female artists who delivered outstanding music. Whether through their infectious pop and rock anthems or their unique alternative sound, these singers brought a distinct flavor to the music scene.

Therefore, it is only fair to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of these remarkable female singers from the 90s. Whether they were part of girl groups or pursued solo careers, their names may be familiar to you, or you might need to acquaint yourself with their incredible talent.

Top Best Female Singers of the 90s

Among the vast array of talented female singers, these 10 remarkable ladies have undeniably made an indelible impact on the music industry. Their voices have graced some of the most cherished and unforgettable songs in history, resonating with millions of listeners worldwide.

Please note that this list solely reflects their extraordinary accomplishments in terms of album sales, commercial success, and overall popularity.

1. Madonna
2. Celine Dion
3. Kylie Minogue
4. Alanis Morissette
5. Aaliyah
6. Mariah Carey
7. Shakira
8. Shania Twain
9. Britney Spears
10. Christina Aguilera

Country Female Singers of the 90s

Since the inception of country music, talented women have played a vital role. Maybelle Carter, one of the earliest country artists, achieved commercial success and paved the way for future female musicians.

However, it was in the late 1970s and early 1980s that female country artists truly began to gain widespread recognition. In the 1990s, these women reached new heights with their exceptional talents, reshaping the landscape of country music.

Notable artists such as Shania Twain, Faith Hill, and LeAnn Rimes not only possessed remarkable voices but also shattered barriers within the genre. Their contributions were instrumental in shaping the present-day country music scene.

Here, we celebrate some of the most beloved and influential female country singers of the 1990s.

1. LeAnn Rimes
2. Shania Twain
3. Dixie Chicks
4. Faith Hill
5. Kathy Mattea
6. Trisha Yearwood
7. The Judds
8. Martina McBride
9. Lisa Brokop
10. Mindy McCready

90s Female R&B Singers

Just try to imagine a world without the incredible talents of Beyoncé, Rihanna, or Alicia Keys. It’s a difficult task, isn’t it?

But here’s the thing: without the groundbreaking success of female R&B singers in the 1990s, these iconic artists might not have achieved the same level of prominence they enjoy today.

The 90s marked a resurgence of R&B music, with extraordinary female vocalists like Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton, and Whitney Houston leading the way.

These extraordinary women dominated the airwaves with their soulful voices, impeccable harmonies, and unparalleled talent, propelling R&B to become one of the most beloved genres of the decade.

While each artist possessed her own unique sound, they all shared a penchant for delivering dramatic and emotionally charged music. Their songs told stories of love and heartbreak that deeply resonated with listeners. Moreover, these timeless tracks continue to captivate audiences today, remaining popular among fans of classic R&B music.

1. Mary J. Blige
2. Whitney Houston
3. Toni Braxton
4. Aaliyah
5. Monica Arnold
6. Vanessa Williams
7. Lauryn Hill
8. Brandy Norwood
9. Faith Evans
10. Kelly Price

Black Female Singers of the 90s

Diversity in talent is a cornerstone of the music industry, and the 1990s showcased the exceptional achievements of black female singers who left an indelible mark.

These remarkable artists not only faced the challenges of pursuing their dreams but also confronted the additional hurdle of racism. Nonetheless, they overcame adversity and carved out their rightful place in the music world.

Across genres like R&B, soul, hip-hop, and pop, these gifted women brought an unparalleled level of soulfulness and passion to their music, setting themselves apart from their contemporaries.

Noteworthy among the highly esteemed black female singers of the 1990s were Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, and Lauryn Hill.

Each artist possessed her own unique style and sound, yet they all shared an undeniable thread of triumph. Their immense talent propelled them to sell millions of records and earn numerous accolades on a global scale.

1. Macy Gray
2. Whitney Houston
3. Erykah Badu
4. Janet Jackson
5. Toni Braxton
6. Tracy Chapman
7. Lauryn Hill
8. Mary J. Blige
9. Brandy Norwood
10. Kelly Rowland

Alternative Female Singers of the 90s

During the early 1990s, alternative music experienced a significant surge in popularity. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden dominated the scene, particularly in Seattle. However, amidst this wave, there existed another captivating facet that often remains overshadowed: the female-led alternative music scene.

Though not receiving as much mainstream attention as their male counterparts, these talented women brought a fresh dose of energy and attitude to the genre.

Among the most prominent figures were Tori Amos, Björk, Alanis Morissette, and Liz Phair. Each singer possessed a distinctive sound that pushed boundaries and defied conventions.

Notably, Tori Amos emerged as one of the most controversial and outspoken voices of the decade. Fearlessly addressing topics such as rape, religion, and politics in her songs, she fearlessly expressed her opinions.

While her commercial success varied, Amos developed a dedicated cult following among those who recognized and appreciated her raw talent and unfiltered honesty.

1. Gwen Stefani
2. Courtney Love
3. Alanis Morissette
4. Björk
5. Tori Amos
6. Liz Phair
7. Dolores O’Riordan
8. Kathleen Hanna
9. PJ Harvey
10. Fiona Apple

90s Female Pop Singers

In the realm of pop music, numerous remarkable female singers have left their mark throughout history. However, the 1990s emerged as a particularly influential decade for the genre.

The advent of groundbreaking technologies such as MTV and CDs democratized access to pop music on a global scale. Capitalizing on this newfound accessibility, female artists like Madonna, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera soared to prominence.

Dressed in flashy attire, armed with infectious hooks, and accompanied by captivating dance moves, these talented women knew how to captivate an audience. Their music exuded a sense of fun and positivity, while their music videos often courted controversy.

Despite facing their fair share of criticism, these determined individuals persevered, ultimately becoming some of the most successful singers of the era. They achieved staggering record sales and amassed dedicated fan bases that spanned the globe.

1. Mariah Carey
2. Christina Aguilera
3. Gina G
4. Mya Harrison
5. Jennifer Lopez
6. Britney Spears
7. Kylie Minogue
8. Sarah McLachlan
9. Sade Adu
10. Anastacia

90s Female Soul Singers

The term “singing from the soul” aptly captures the essence of those singers who pour their hearts and emotions into their music. The 1990s witnessed an abundance of female vocalists who embodied this spirit.

Among them were renowned artists such as Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross. Through their music, these remarkable women have brought solace, empowerment, and inspiration to countless listeners, leaving an enduring impact on the world.

Whitney Houston’s remarkable achievement of securing seven consecutive number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 remains unparalleled in music history.

Similarly, Mariah Carey’s astounding record of nineteen number-one Billboard Hot 100 singles stands as a testament to her exceptional talent and enduring popularity. Such feats are undeniably impressive and highlight the immense impact these artists have had on the music industry.

1. Amy Winehouse
2. Chaka Khan
3. Diana Ross
4. Alicia Keys
5. Mary J. Blige
6. Whitney Houston
7. Roberta Flack
8. Jill Scott
9. Angie Stone
10. Toni Braxton

90s Alternative Rock Female Singers

Rock music has witnessed the birth of various subgenres throughout its history, and one of the notable ones that gained popularity in the early 1990s was alternative rock.

Alternative rock encompasses a distinct sound characterized by its mellower tone and introspective lyrics. The genre’s DIY (do-it-yourself) ethic, popularized by bands like Nirvana, also played a significant role.

Despite being predominantly male-dominated, the 1990s saw the rise of several exceptionally talented female singers who thrived within the alternative rock scene. These women made their mark and contributed significantly to the genre’s success.

Here are ten of those singers :

1. Neko Case
2. Carrie Akre
3. Amy Lee
4. Sarah McLachlan
5. Jenny Lewis
6. Kate Pierson
7. Anneke van Giersbergen
8. Juliana Hatfield
9. Donita Sparks
10. Annie Lennox

90s Female Folk Singers

Folk music, rooted in the tradition of passing down songs through generations, is characterized by acoustic instruments and storytelling.

Though the 1990s may not have been the pinnacle of folk music, there were still numerous gifted female singers who produced exceptional music within the genre.

Jewel, Shawn Colvin, Emmylou Harris, and Natalie Merchant are among the noteworthy talents of that era. It is worth noting that many of these singers had already established their careers in the 1980s, but they continued to find success in the 1990s by captivating audiences with their folk-inspired compositions.

1. Patty Griffin
2. Cerys Matthews
3. Kate Rusby
4. Shawn Colvin
5. Jill Gibson
6. Iris DeMent
7. Beth Gibbons
8. Suzy Bogguss
9. Rebecca Pidgeon
10. Tracy Chapman

Hot 90s Female Singers

The definition of “hot” can vary from person to person, encompassing a combination of factors such as looks, talent, and personality. Ultimately, it is subjective and up to individual interpretation.

However, there is no denying that the female singers mentioned below were not only exceptionally talented but also widely regarded as some of the most attractive women in the world.

Among the notable names are Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, Alicia Keys, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera.

These remarkable individuals not only achieved great success in the 1990s but continue to thrive and excel in their respective careers to this day.

1. Madonna
2. Aaliyah
3. Liv Kristine
4. Jennifer Lopez
5. Kylie Minogue
6. Mya Harrison
7. Gina G
8. Tori Amos
9. Britney Spears
10. Shakira

Canadian Female Singers 90s

Canada is renowned for various cultural icons, including maple syrup, hockey, and frigid winters. However, it also proudly claims some of the world’s finest female singers among its own.

These exceptional artists include Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Alanis Morissette, and Sarah McLachlan.

Celine Dion, in particular, emerged as one of the biggest global stars of the 1990s. Hailing from Quebec, she skyrocketed to fame with her 1990 album, “Unison,” ultimately selling over 200 million records throughout her illustrious career.

Another Canadian powerhouse is Shania Twain, who experienced tremendous success in the ’90s. As the best-selling female artist in the history of country music, she has amassed five Grammy Awards and continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry.

The achievements of these talented women exemplify Canada’s position as a fertile breeding ground for exceptional female singers. Their remarkable contributions have firmly established Canada as a formidable force in the music industry.

1. Nelly Furtado
2. Celine Dion
3. Alanis Morissette
4. Joni Mitchell
5. Sarah McLachlan
6. Anne Murray
7. Shania Twain
8. Vanity
9. k.d. lang
10. Lara Fabian

90s Female Tejano Singers

Tejano music, originating in Texas, stands as a genre deeply influenced by Mexican culture. Its name pays homage to the people of Texas, of Spanish heritage. The first recordings of Tejano music emerged in the early 1920s, but it reached its peak in the vibrant era of the 1990s.

During this time, numerous female singers played a vital role in popularizing Tejano music. Among these influential artists were Selena Quintanilla-Perez, Graciela Beltran, and Lisa Lopez.

Tejano music remains popular to this day, resonating not only with Mexican Americans but also with non-Hispanic Americans who have embraced the genre’s vibrant rhythms and cultural significance.

1. Elida Reyna
2. Selena Quintanilla
3. Laura Canales
4. Esmi Talamantez
5. Gloria Estefan
6. Suzette Quintanilla
7. Shelly Lares
8. Jennifer Peña
9. Rebecca Valadez
10. Thalía Sodi
11. Alejandra Guzmán

90s British Bands with Female Singers

There is an undeniable allure to British bands with female lead singers. Perhaps it’s the charming accent or their innate sense of coolness that captivates audiences.

Regardless of the reason, these bands made a significant impact in the 90s and their popularity endures to this day, nearly three decades later.

Elastica, Garbage, Eurythmics, and The Pretenders stand among the most beloved and successful British bands with female singers. Their distinctive sound and remarkable talent continue to captivate listeners worldwide.

Here are some more.

1. Emma Anderson (Lush)
2. Louise Wener (Sleeper)
3. Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders)
4. Lauren Laverne (Kenickie)
5. Saffron (Republica)
6. Justine Frischmann (Elastica)
7. Skin (Skunk Anansie)
8. Shirley Manson (Garbage)
9. Kelli Ali (former singer – Sneaker Pimps)
10. Shelly Poole (Alisha’s Attic)

Forgotten Female Singers of the 90s

The 1990s witnessed an abundance of exceptional female singers, but amidst their success, there are a few whose contributions may have been overlooked. These are the forgotten female singers of the era.

While some of these artists achieved moderate success within the music industry, they fell short of reaching the pinnacle of fame. Others possessed remarkable talent but lacked the ideal opportunities to showcase their skills fully.

Though they may not enjoy the same level of recognition as some of their counterparts, their talent and dedication deserve acknowledgment. So, without delay, let us shine a light on the forgotten female singers of the 1990s.

1. Brandy Norwood
2. Tracy Chapman
3. Mandy Moore
4. Paula Cole
5. Shawn Colvin
6. Sarah McLachlan
7. Alanis Morissette
8. Meredith Brooks
9. Jewel
10. Fiona Apple
11. Monica

The 90s One Hit Wonder Female Singers

The 1990s witnessed a wave of one-hit wonders by female singers who had relatively limited experience in the music industry. These individuals skyrocketed to fame with a single song, leaving an indelible mark on the music world.

While their careers may have been defined by a solitary hit, their impact remains undeniable even after nearly three decades. Their songs continue to resonate with audiences to this day.

Among the most popular one-hit-wonder female singers of the 90s were Chumbawamba, Natalie Imbruglia, and Meja. Each artist brought a distinct style to the table, and despite their brief moments in the spotlight, they achieved monumental success with their memorable hit songs.

1. Trisha Yearwood (How Do I Live)
2. Natalie Imbruglia (Torn)
3. Chumbawamba ( Tubthumping )
4. Sinéad O’Connor ( Nothing Compares 2 U )
5. Clint Black and Lisa Hartman Black (When I Said I Do)
6. Oleta Adams (Get Here)
7. Meja (All ‘Bout the Money)

90s Female Rock Singers

Throughout the decades, women have brought their immense talent to the world of rock music, and the 1990s were no exception. With the rise of the grunge scene, there was a renewed appreciation for raw talent and emotional depth in the genre.

Leading the charge were influential female singers such as Courtney Love, Shirley Manson, and Paige Hamilton. These women made a significant impact on the rock music landscape of the 90s, even if their contributions have not always received proper recognition.

Their influence can be seen resonating in the work of contemporary artists like Halsey, Billie Eilish, and Lana Del Rey.

Remarkably, the songs of these trailblazers still resonate today and continue to find popularity among fans of classic rock music. Their enduring impact has left an indelible mark on the genre, ensuring their place in the annals of rock music history.

1. PJ Harvey
2. Courtney Love (Hole)
3. Tanya Donelly ( Throwing Muses, The Breeders, Belly)
4. Gwen Stefani (No Doubt)
5. Bjork
6. Liz Phair
7. Donita Sparks (L7)
8. Shirley Manson (Garbage)
9. Jill Cunniff (Luscious Jackson)
10. Juliana Hatfield (The Blake Babies, Juliana Hatfield Three)

90s Female Pop Singers

The 1990s marked an exceptional era for female pop singers, showcasing an extraordinary array of talent.

The advent of groundbreaking technologies, such as MTV and CDs, propelled pop music to new heights of accessibility worldwide. Seizing this opportunity, iconic female artists like Madonna, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera emerged as titans of the genre.

These performers possessed a magnetic stage presence, donning flamboyant attire, delivering infectious hooks, and showcasing captivating dance moves. Their music was a celebration of fun and upbeat energy, often accompanied by visually stunning and controversial music videos.

Despite facing criticism and challenges, these determined artists persevered, solidifying their positions as some of the most successful singers of the decade. Their tremendous record sales and worldwide fanbases are a testament to their enduring impact on the music industry.

1. Mariah Carey
2. Christina Aguilera
3. Jennifer Lopez
4. Britney Spears
5. Sarah McLachlan
6. Sade Adu
7. Kylie Minogue
8. Gina G
9. Mya Harrison
10. Anastacia

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The iconic female singers of the 90s left an indelible mark on the music industry, captivating audiences worldwide with their exceptional talent, memorable songs, and powerful performances. Artists such as Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Madonna, Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Alanis Morissette, Shania Twain, and TLC became household names and achieved remarkable success during the decade.

These women broke barriers, challenged norms, and empowered a generation of fans. They showcased their immense vocal abilities, embraced individuality, and delivered songs that resonated deeply with listeners. Their music became anthems of empowerment, love, heartbreak, and self-expression.

Beyond their chart-topping hits, these female singers became cultural icons, shaping fashion trends, sparking conversations, and inspiring countless aspiring artists. They received numerous accolades and awards for their contributions to the industry, solidifying their status as legends.