Top Women in Music Who Broke Barriers and Made History

A boundary-pushing pop icon who has influenced generations with her music and performances.

Known as the 'First Lady of Song', she was the first African American woman to win multiple Grammy Awards and broke racial barriers in jazz.

Known as the 'High Priestess of Soul', she used her music to advocate for civil rights and social justice.

The 'Queen of Soul' was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a powerful voice for civil rights.

Influential rapper and singer who broke barriers in hip-hop with her critically acclaimed album 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill'.

First Black performer to sing at the Metropolitan Opera, breaking racial barriers in classical music.

One of the first Black women to work with a white orchestra, known for her powerful voice and anti-lynching song 'Strange Fruit'.

A pioneering rock singer who faced sexism in the 1960s and became a legendary figure in rock music.

A highly influential country singer-songwriter known for her philanthropy and enduring career.

Pioneering songwriter and performer who became the first woman to win the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.