The Best Female Singers Of The 1970s

Joni Mitchell, Diana Ross, Barbra Streisand, Cher, Carly Simon… All of these women defined the 1970s pop culture music scene through their unparalleled talent and empowering hit songs. Trailblazing country royalty Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn transformed the country music industry with numerous heartfelt acoustic albums, especially their unforgettable ballads “Jolene” and “Coal Miner's Daughter.” The ‘Queen of Disco’ Donna Summer redefined pop music by paving the way for modern electronica and dance, ultimately serving as the voice of '70s club music. Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Joan Jett and Debbie Harry proved that female-fronted rock bands could dominate the Billboard charts; and civil rights advocates Aretha Franklin and Joan Baez fearlessly fought injustice through their profound gospel and folk protest anthems. 

Which of these influential vocalists were the best female artists of the 1970s, and who deserves GOAT status at the top of this list? Vote below for your favorite 1970s female singers across the decade, and feel free to check out their discography lists afterwards if you'd like to discover more of their best albums.