We usually love seeing a hot guy playing guitar, but rocking female guitarists make us feel both free and empowered. The world of rock isn't just about guys. Women can shred with the best of them. If you're ready to get your rock on, check out some of the best rock female guitarists and you'll be itching to grab your own six string.
1 Orianthi
Endorsements from both Michael Jackson and Santana speak volumes about this young, but talented guitarist. From pop to rock to blues, Orianthi can make a guitar say just about anything she wants. While she may look more like a pop star, she's one of the best and most universal female guitarists. While she's only released a few albums, she's guested on numerous others.
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2 Joan Jett
Nothing quite says rock like Joan Jett. The moment she starts to play, crowds are hooked. Whether you grew up with her music or not, you've likely heard and rocked out to “I Love Rock 'n' Roll” at some point. Her musical genius has inspired countless women to pick up their own guitars and let their inner rock star out. She was even honored by Rolling Stone 2003 as one of the best guitarists ever.
3 Nancy Wilson
Heart is one of those iconic rock bands that everyone knows. At the heart of the band is lead guitarist Nancy Wilson. Her sister definitely has some killer vocal chops, but can you really imagine “Barracuda” or “What About Love” without the signature guitar riffs? The band is still going strong, thanks in no small part to Nancy's amazing skills.
4 Jennifer Batten
Michael Jackson definitely knew what to look for in a guitarist. Out of hundreds of guitarists, Jennifer Batten was hand picked by Jackson to handle the iconic “Beat It” solo on three different tours. She's played a little of everything, from rock to blues to electronica. Her versatility led her to play in six bands, release several solo albums and pair up with other guitarists for mind-blowing duets.
5 Lita Ford
When you think of female guitarists in the '80s, Lita Ford is the first that comes to mind. She played to the iconic hair band look while making guitars seem sexier than ever. However, it wasn't just tight pants that made her so popular. Tons of amazing riffs along with a stunning duet with Ozzy Osbourne show just how incredible she really is.
6 Jan Kuehnemund
The late, great Jan Kuehnemund left behind beautiful solos that will rock the world for generations to come. The founder and lead guitarist of Vixen knew exactly how to make a guitar talk. While the music itself was amazing, it was the lead runs and solos that made the songs truly rock. She isn't as talked about as some of the others on the list, but she's no less talented.
7 Jessica Gardlund
While you've likely never heard of Jessica Gardlund, her only album so far has four powerful tracks that showcase some amazing rock guitar. Watching her play makes me want to grab my own guitar. She's mainly a YouTube rocker at the moment, but hopefully she'll be shredding some more in the future. The world could definitely use more guitarists like her.
The staple of any great rock band is the guitarist and these beautiful ladies know how to let loose. You can't listen to any of them without wanting to take a walk on the wild side and rock out in front of thousands. What other amazing female rock guitarists would you add to this list?
