5 Women Who Rocked the 1970s: Joan Jett, Heart, and More

Women were a huge influence in 1970s rock music, and these five powerhouses are still considered quite legendary today. Let’s take a walk through music history and explore five women who rock the 1970s!

1. Heart

This entry is technically two women, but both of them are absolutely worth mentioning on our list of women who rocked the 1970s. With the debut of their very first album Dreamboat Annie in 1976, Heart changed the game of hard rock. Sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson have released so many killer songs since then, but nothing hits like the 1970s classics “Barracuda” and “Dreamboat Annie”. Thankfully, these two powerhouses are still touring today.

2. Kate Bush

Kate Bush is one of the most legendary English singer-songwriters in the rock genre, though it’s not entirely accurate to place her in rock alone. The Kick Inside and Lionheart are impressive pieces of work that influenced countless art rock and progressive pop artists who followed in her footsteps.

3. Joan Jett

From her time in The Runaways to her long-lasting stint with The Blackhearts, Joan Jett is one of the most iconic women in rock and roll. She embodied it all: Killer vocal ability, unique guitar-playing skills, a notable style, and a fierce attitude. She really flourished as a solo artist in the 1980s, but her start in the 1970s was quite important.

4. Suzi Quatro

Suzi Quatro was in the rock scene before The Runaways were even a thought. She clearly influenced them as well as hard rock and pop rock in general. She debuted with much success in Australia and Europe with hits like “Can The Can” from 1973 and “Devil Gate Drive” in 1974. 

5. Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks is a shoo-in for lists like this. She quickly became one of the most notable members and songwriters of Fleetwood Mac in the 1970s. Rumours is still the band’s most memorable album, due in part to her glittering vocals and unique songwriting chops. “Dreams”, “I Don’t Want To Know”, and “Gold Dust Woman” are all essential listening, but Rumours as a whole is worth a solid run-through. “Silver Springs” is another iconic folk-rock tune by Nicks that (for some insane reason) didn’t make it to that particular album.

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.