The Top Female Country Singers
Some of the biggest selling and most popular singers in country music are women. With their heartfelt lyrics, strong vocal range, and magnetic personalities, these female country singers are many country music fans' favorite vocalists. Many classic artists on this list, like Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, and the late June Carter Cash, are established icons of Country/Western's old guard. Others still are newer to the genre, and are currently among the most famous singers of the modern day. Many have even crossed over finding audiences in the pop and rock worlds, including women country singers Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, and top selling female singer of all time Shania Twain.
Many of the legends of the country genre are ladies who helped paved the way for today's top female country singers. Country women like Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette, and Lynn Anderson are responsible for early hits that made lasting impacts for other girl country singers. As some of the foremothers of country music, they are considered to be not only the some of the top singers from a lyrical and popularity standpoint, but also due to their importance in making it culturally acceptable for country music to accept females in the usually male-driven industry.
Vote for who you think should be considered the best female country artists on this Ultimate List. There are so many of the most recognizable ladies in country, so you really can't go wrong with whomever you deem to be the greatest women of country music.
A powerhouse in the country music world, Reba McEntire has been captivating audiences for decades with her emotive storytelling and powerful vocals. With 33 studio albums under her belt, McEntire has produced countless hits such as "Fancy," "The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia," and "Does He Love You." Her accolades include two Grammy Awards, seven CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards, and a well-deserved place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. As an influential figure in country music, Reba's impact spans multiple generations, solidifying her status as one of the best female country artists of all time.
Patsy Cline's soulful voice and timeless classics like "Crazy" and "I Fall to Pieces" have left an indelible mark on country music. Though her career was tragically cut short due to a plane crash, she managed to release three influential studio albums that showcased her unique vocal talents. Today, Patsy is remembered as a pioneer for women in country music, having been the first female solo artist to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry and later being posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
An iconic figure in the world of country music, Dolly Parton boasts an impressive discography spanning over five decades. Known for hit songs like "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You," Parton has released 50 studio albums throughout her illustrious career. Her numerous accolades include nine Grammy Awards and an induction into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame. Beyond her musical achievements, Parton's philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact on literacy programs worldwide through her Imagination Library initiative.
With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Martina McBride has become synonymous with powerful ballads and awe-inspiring vocal performances. Her hit songs such as "Independence Day," "Concrete Angel," and "A Broken Wing" showcase her ability to convey emotion and resonate with listeners on a profound level. McBride has released 13 studio albums and received numerous awards, including four CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards. As an advocate for ending domestic violence, her music often tackles important social issues, solidifying her place among the best female country artists.
Since winning American Idol in 2005, Carrie Underwood has taken the country music world by storm. Her powerful vocals have earned her numerous accolades, including seven Grammy Awards and multiple CMA Awards. With hit songs like "Before He Cheats," "Jesus Take The Wheel," and "Blown Away," Underwood's discography spans eight studio albums showcasing her versatility as a vocalist and songwriter. As one of the best-selling female country artists in recent history, her impact on the genre is undeniable.
A trailblazer for women in country music, Loretta Lynn's career spans over six decades, producing countless hits such as "Coal Miner's Daughter" and "Don't Come Home A' Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind)." Her autobiographical songwriting style resonated with audiences worldwide, earning her four Grammy Awards and an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. As a prolific songwriter with over 50 albums to her name, Loretta Lynn's enduring influence on country music is immeasurable.
