There are so many female artists producing music these days, but what sets them apart from the rest? I've found a number of women who, with the right recognition, could change the face of music and show the power that women have in such an industry. The women listed are a mix of throwbacks, rising stars, and somewhat obscure artists, but each has something to offer to their genre and to music as a whole.
1. CHVRCHES
For those who love a mix of pop and dance, CHVRCHES is the band for you. Heading the band, vocalist Lauren Mayberry provides a simple yet sweet take on the popular music genre. Proving that with the help of a her two bandmates and incredibly catchy lyrics, her music begins to transcend the typical dance/pop genre.
Listen to: "Leave a Trace," "Clearest Blue," and "The Mother We Share."
2. Tori Kelly
Breaking into the music scene from YouTube, recently Grammy-nominated Tori Kelly is the freshest face in pop music. Releasing her debut album in 2015, Tori's music is not your traditional pop radio classic. It's revitalizing. Her vocals are impeccable, and her lyrics give depth to pop music and put to shame any songstress currently on the radio.
Listen to: "Unbreakable Smile," "Funny," and "Dear No One."
3. Betty Who
Australian pop queen Betty Who brings the 80s feel back to pop music with her incredible dance anthems. Supplementing her synth-centered dance tracks with more chill, emotional tracks proves that she can sing whatever she puts her mind to.
Listen to: "Just Like Me," "High Society," and "Missing You."
4. Hinds
Switching from the pop genre to something a lot more different, Madrid-based, garage-pop band, Hinds, throws out any stereotypes of an all-girl band and reminds us that girls are crazy but wicked fun. Their music has a very upbeat sound to it, even on the sadder tracks. The classic electric guitar sound, solid bass and drums, and unique vocals makes Hinds a band to watch this year.
Listen to: "Garden," "Bamboo," and "Solar" (instrumental).
Bonus cover: "Davey Crockett" by Thee Headcoats.
5. Dido
Here's a throwback. I'm sure we all remember listening to Dido's chill vocals on a soft rock radio station at some point in the early 2000s. Turns out, she has a number of tracks that are worthy of recognition. And who wouldn't love to relive the feels that "White Flag" gave to anyone that listened to it?
Listen to: "Look No Further," "Let Us Move On (feat. Kendrick Lamar)," and "Thank You."
6. Daughter
Daughter combines moving lyrics and intense instruments to create the most emotional music. Elena Tonra's soft vocals bring a depth to her music that can only be achieved by a true musician. If you really want to feel something from listening to music, I encourage giving Daughter a listen.
Listen to: "Youth," "Medicine," and new release "Doing the Right Thing."
7. Jessie Ware
Delving into the R&B genre, Jessie Ware offers her beautiful vocals to tracks that range from slow and romantic to upbeat and exciting. The power of her voice is somewhat of a surprise, and hitting ridiculous high notes adds to her incredible talent.
Listen to: "Say You Love Me," "Champagne Kisses," and "Wildest Moments."
8. ZZ Ward
ZZ Ward is a an eclectic mix of pop, rock, and R&B. Her music is filled with soul and is extremely catchy to first listeners. She's not widely known by a large audience, but that shouldn't stop you from giving her a chance and falling in love with her bluesy and soulful craft.
Listen to: "Put the Gun Down," "Til the Casket Drops," and "Love 3X."
9. Ruth B
Current newcomer and previous YouTube star, Ruth B uses her piano and vocals to send a message of pureness and simplicity to the music industry. She has only released four tracks, but each one has a sweet story and shows her potential.
Listen to: "Lost Boy," "2 Poor Kids," and "Superficial Love."
10. KT Tunstall
Another throwback that should have had more recognition in her "prime." KT Tunstall is best known for "Black Horse in the Cherry Tree," but actually has multiple tracks on her older albums that should have been more popular because they are great pop-rock tunes.
Listen to: "Stoppin' the Love," "Hold On," and "Fade Like a Shadow."
11. LIGHTS
Last but most definitely not least, LIGHTS. The most interesting thing about her is that she can switch from dance-pop to acoustic and have no problem. Her melodies are infectious and overall genius, and that's only the vocal track. Her guitar on the acoustic tracks is beautiful, and the electronic instrumentals on her dance tracks are perfectly synchronized with the vocals. LIGHTS is very much an artist that everyone can enjoy.
Listen to: "Running with the Boys," "Banner (acoustic)," and "Child."
