10 Must Hear Female Blues Rock Guitarists
Blues rock has long been dominated by legends wielding six-strings, but in recent decades, female guitarists have been carving their place at the forefront of the genre. These artists bring passion, innovation, and soul to blues rock, inspiring fans and fellow musicians alike. Here are 10 must-hear female blues rock guitarists you should know.
Joanne Shaw Taylor
With her gritty vocals and stellar guitar work, Joanne Shaw Taylor has become a leading name in contemporary blues rock. Discovered by Dave Stewart of Eurythmics fame, Taylor showcases an ability to balance soulful melodies with raw, powerful riffs. Her playing is rooted in traditional blues yet brims with modern energy, creating a sound that feels both classic and fresh. Whether performing live or in the studio, Taylor’s dynamic presence continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Joanne has been on the blues rock scene for over 15 years and she’s really been hitting her stride in the last few receiving a nice bounce on Joe Bonamassa’s record label.
Joanna Connor
Joanna Connor is renowned for her fiery slide guitar technique and electrifying live performances. Joanna has been a fixture in the Chicago blues scene for decades and her Joe Bonamassa/Josh Smith produced album 4801 South Indiana Avenue finally brought her the attention she deserves landing #1 on the Billboard Blues chart. Connor’s ferocious solos are a masterclass in intensity, earning her comparisons to many of the greats. Connor is a powerhouse performer who brings a raw authenticity to every stage she graces.
Ana Popovic
Ana Popovic has brought a sophisticated and dynamic edge to blues rock. Hailing from Serbia and now based in the U.S., Popovic’s genre-blurring style is evident. Her technical finesse is complemented by a fearless exploration of funk, jazz, and rock, making her one of the genre’s most versatile players. Onstage, Popovic’s energy and charisma shine through, delivering performances that leave audiences in awe. Over her career, Ana has been nominated for 10 Blues Music Awards, and her latest album, Power, hit #1 on the Billboard Blues chart.
Samantha Fish
Known for her raw intensity and versatility, Samantha Fish is a modern trailblazer in blues rock. Samantha blends traditional blues with rock, soul, and even pop influences, all while delivering jaw-dropping guitar solos. Fish’s commanding stage presence and soulful voice add another layer of depth to her artistry, making her a must-see live act. Her dedication to pushing blues rock into new territories like she did on the Grammy nominated Death Wish Blues with Jesse Dayton ensures she remains a key figure in its future evolution. Samantha has been everywhere in recent years sharing the stage with Slash, opening for the Rolling Stones, and taking part in the Experience Hendrix tour and several major festivals.
Sue Foley
Canadian-born Sue Foley has a unique style rooted in Texas blues, blending traditional sounds with her own flair. Known for her mastery of the Telecaster, Foley displays virtuosity and a deep connection to the blues. Foley’s tasteful phrasing and understated power set her apart as a true purist of the genre. Her decades-long career stands as a testament to her unwavering passion and commitment to keeping blues alive. This year, Sue earned a Grammy nomination for One Guitar Woman.
Orianthi
Orianthi burst onto the scene with her high-energy guitar solos and crossover appeal. While she’s known for her work with artists like Michael Jackson and Alice Cooper, Orianthi demonstrates an ability to infuse blues rock with her signature, shredding style. Her blend of flashy technique and emotional depth makes her a standout among modern guitarists. With a global fanbase, Orianthi continues to inspire a new generation of musicians with her genre-spanning creativity. Orianthi has recently teamed with producer Kevin Shirley and will release a new album in 2025.
Bonnie Raitt
A household name in blues rock, Bonnie Raitt has been a trailblazer for decades. Her slide guitar playing and emotive singing shine. Raitt’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music has made her one of the most beloved artists in the genre. Now in her mid-70s, Bonnie is still going strong winning three Grammys in 2022.
Larkin Poe/Megan and Rebecca Lovell
This sister duo featuring slide queen Megan Lovell and guitarist Rebecca has helped revitalize blues rock with their modern take on the genre. Larkin Poe’s innovative use of lap steel guitar and vocal harmonies sets them apart from other artists in the genre. Larkin Poe’s ability to honor the past while looking forward makes them a vital force in blues rock today. The duo’s career reached a high point in 2024 winning the Grammy for “Best Contemporary Blues Album.”
Hannah Wicklund
Hannah Wicklund is a rising star known for her electrifying performances and killer guitar chops. She blends blues rock with a classic rock vibe that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Hannah packs powerful riffs and raw, emotional vocals. Wicklund’s fearless approach to songwriting and performance makes her one to watch in the blues rock world. She is one of the top guitarists in the genre and is an artist that more people need to hear.
Ally Venable
A rising star in blues rock, Ally Venable has been wowing audiences with her fiery guitar playing . Ally brings a deep connection to the blues and a fresh perspective to the genre. Only in her 20s, Venable has already shared stages with legends like Buddy Guy, proving her talent is undeniable. Her youthful energy and passion ensure she’s poised to help lead blues rock into its next chapter.
No Debbie Davies? Seriously?
Where is Beth Hart?
She is incredible, but she is not a guitar player.
Wasn’t aware that Beth played guitar…???
Never seen her play guitar. Piano, yes, and well, but not guitar. Does she play guitar and I just haven’t ever seen it? Could be.
No I haven’t seen her play guitar , but she is awesome singer
You’re missing the whole point of the list!
She does play guitar which I’ve seen multiple time. . I may have pics maybe video but , she doesn’t belong on the list of guitar players for sure .
Yes she does
Beth Hart is not a guitar player.
Beth Hart isn’t a guitarist.
Beth is a PIANO player, not a rock/blues guitarist if I remember correctly.
This is about girl blues rock guitarists. Though Beth Hart is Beth Hart, like Johnny Cash is Johnny Cash. They are their own genre!
I have seen Beth Hart 2x, Samantha Fish 4x, Larkin Poe2x, Ana Popovic 2x, Ida Mae(Stephanie Jean Ward), Emily Wolfe, Amanda Fish(Samantha’s older sister, she plays Bass), Danielle Nicole 2x(also Bass)
After watching all these ladies, they are all awesome and I don’t give Two cents for pop and country. Some of the most talented artists man or woman I have ever heard. When you see them live, you know they are special!
But blues rock women are the best out there. Sad they don’t get the recognition! Their talent dominates. They don’t have to flash their boobs or do stupid drama to get noticed.
They are talented and love the their fans, who in return loves them.
Get a chance go see any of them. Other ladies to see Elles Bailey, Joanna Shaw Taylor, the Wandering Hearts, Ruthie Foster
Please share a video of Beth playing guitar so we can judge.
What about the stunning Jackie Venson?
Second that one!
Problem is so many of them, you occasionally miss them. Jackie Venson, Fiona Boyes, Sari scohrr
I know these lists are subjective and No Disrespect to any of these ladies… But HOW IN THE WORLD do you leave off Carolyn Wonderland???
Exactly! Texas LEGEND!
Amen
Any list of top blues rock guitarists that doesn’t include Laura Chavez is immediately suspect.
Amen!!! Laura is a better blues guitarist than ANY of the 10 mentioned!
Keep an ear out for Sadie Johnson…
My thoughts, too.
I’ve seen both Sue Foley and JST live. Both were amazing.
What about Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Deborah Connor? Lest we not forget Etta Baker and her great finger- picking!
Have seen JST, Ana Popovic, Samantha Fish (x2), Bonnie Raitt, and Ally Venable (2). Tons of talent in that group. Agree with the previous comment that Carolyn Wonderland deserves recognition too. I would love to see Larkin Poe live if they would make their way to Arizona!
Laura Cox should be on this list
Chantel McGregor is
How could U forget;
Susan Tedeschi….
Carolyn Wonderland
Danielle Nicole
Erja Lyytinnen
…and Jennifer Batten
Still a good list
Danielle Nicole plays bass!
Agreed. Susan Tedeschi is a very godd guitarplayer on her own, and Erja Lyytinen (The Queen of Slide) has also a lot to give. They would be on my list.
Susan Tedeschi by far a monster talent and Grammy winner in blues…played with all the greats including Buddy Guy with whom she toured with. Sorry not to see her on this list
I know she’s not strictly a blues guitarist but if you haven’t checked out Grace Bowers, please do. The girl can shred!
The late Jan Kuehnmund
The B in R&B is blues. She indeed shreds!
Where the hell is Chantel McGregor? It’s sacrilegious not to have her in this list!
What about H.E.R.
Pretty good Axe player
Once a young prodigy, with an excellent debut album, “Loud Guitars, Big Suspicions” and critically acclaimed at the age of 14, Shannon Curfman, somehow virtually retreated to the background, and only released two follow full-length recordings, her last in 2010, since her heralded debut from 1999.
She has done some side work with Johnny Lang and Kid Rock, but it is a shame, as she showed such promise, and released some damn fine music, along with her excellent blues guitar playing.
Yeah, I was just thinking of Shannon when I came across your post!
She was good, writing adult level songs on her CD at 14 as well as singing and great guitar work!
Susan Tedeschi
Agreed. Anyone who has seen her live will know. If she can share the stage with Derek Trucks, she’s GOOD.
Young up and comer Erin Coburn deserves a mention and a must is British singer/songwriter/guitarist Chantel McGregor. Brilliant.
Very good list, with some good suggestions in the comments. I would add Laurie Morvan as well.
Maki Shizusawa. Japan. https://youtu.be/33J15nBXVXw?t=3
Shoka Okubu. Japan
Kumi Adachi. Japan
All those gals are awesome. Not one mentioned Jackie Venson.
All those gals are awesome. Not one mentioned Jackie Venson.
What about the band called The Warning from monterrey mexico. 3 sisters and the lead guitarist can PICK.
Tedeschi rocks but has to have her slide guy y’all know him truck’s
You forgot the 🐐Susan Tedeschi!
Nobody has mentioned Eliana Cargnelutti yet
Laura Chavez out to be on the list.
The late great rock guitarist from the band Vixen. Had some great rock chops, but no blues that I ever heard.
No Carolyn Wonderland?!?!
What bout Samantha Fish. incredible guitarist and sings like a blues banshee