The 1990s was a time of great change in the music industry, with the rise of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Amidst this cultural shift, many female singers rose to fame, carving out their own unique identities and styles. These women were pioneers in their own right, challenging gender norms and breaking down barriers in the male-dominated industry.
Female singers of the 1990s represented a diverse range of genres and styles, from the soulful R&B of Mariah Carey to the alternative rock of Alanis Morissette, and the pop hooks of Britney Spears to the feminist anthems of the Riot Grrrl movement. These women not only had incredible talent but also used their platforms to speak out on issues such as gender equality, sexual empowerment, and mental health.
Many of these female singers have remained cultural icons, with their music continuing to inspire and influence new generations of artists. The 1990s was truly a golden age for female singers, and their impact on the music industry and popular culture will continue to be felt for years to come.
1. Sinéad O’Connor
Sinéad O’Connor is an Irish singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with her powerful voice, striking image, and outspoken views on social and political issues. Born in Dublin in 1966, O’Connor began her music career in the early 1980s as a member of several Irish bands before embarking on a solo career.
O’Connor’s music is known for its emotional depth and raw honesty, as well as its blend of rock, folk, and traditional Irish influences. She has released numerous hit albums and singles, including “Nothing Compares 2 U,” which became a worldwide sensation in 1990.
Throughout her career, O’Connor has been known for her controversial views and actions, including her protest against the Catholic Church on Saturday Night Live in 1992, and her open discussions about mental illness and abuse. Despite facing backlash and criticism for her views, O’Connor has remained committed to using her platform to speak out for those who are marginalized or oppressed.
With her powerful voice, emotional depth, and fearless activism, Sinéad O’Connor has become one of the most influential and respected artists of her generation, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike.
2. Dolores O’Riordan
Dolores O’Riordan was an Irish musician, singer, and songwriter born on September 6, 1971, in Limerick, Ireland. She is best known as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the rock band The Cranberries, which gained popularity in the 1990s. With her unique vocal style, she became one of the most recognizable voices in the music industry.
O’Riordan grew up in a working-class family and began singing at an early age. She joined The Cranberries in 1990, and the band’s first album, “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?”, released in 1993, was a massive success. The album’s lead single, “Linger,” became an international hit and earned the band a loyal fan base.
O’Riordan’s songwriting focused on themes such as love, loss, and social issues, and she often incorporated elements of Irish folklore and mythology into her music. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its ethereal quality and strong emotional delivery, helped to set The Cranberries apart from other bands of the era.
Tragically, O’Riordan passed away on January 15, 2018, at the age of 46. Her sudden death shocked fans around the world, but her music continues to resonate with listeners today. O’Riordan’s legacy as a talented musician and songwriter lives on, and she remains an inspiration to many aspiring artists.
3. Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful voice, emotional ballads, and powerful stage presence. Born on October 7, 1967, in Severn, Maryland, Toni began her music career in the early 1990s as part of the R&B group The Braxtons, which included her sisters. She gained wider recognition with her solo debut album “Toni Braxton” in 1993, which included the hit singles “Another Sad Love Song” and “Breathe Again.”
Toni’s music is characterized by her rich, deep vocals and emotional lyrics, which often explore themes of heartbreak, love, and resilience. Her signature ballads, such as “Un-Break My Heart” and “You Mean the World to Me,” have become classics and continue to resonate with audiences today. Toni has won multiple awards for her music, including seven Grammy Awards.
Aside from her music career, Toni is also a successful actress, with roles in films such as “Kingdom Come” and “The Oogieloves in the Big Balloon Adventure.” She has also been open about her struggles with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, and has used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for research.
Overall, Toni Braxton is a talented and influential artist who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her powerful voice and emotional ballads have touched the hearts of many, and her advocacy work has made her an inspiration to many others.
4. Madonna
Madonna is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur who has been a major force in the music industry for over four decades. Born in Bay City, Michigan, in 1958, Madonna moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue a career in music and dance. She released her self-titled debut album in 1983, which included hit singles such as “Borderline” and “Lucky Star.”
Madonna has been a trailblazer in the music industry, pushing boundaries and constantly reinventing her image and sound. She has incorporated elements of pop, rock, dance, electronic, and hip-hop music into her work, while also addressing social and political issues through her lyrics and performances. Her hits include “Like a Virgin,” “Vogue,” “Material Girl,” and “Hung Up,” among many others.
In addition to her music career, Madonna has also been a successful entrepreneur, launching her own record label, clothing line, and fragrance line. She has also been a prominent advocate for various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights, women’s empowerment, and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Madonna’s impact on popular culture has been enormous, earning her a reputation as a cultural icon and inspiring countless artists who have followed in her footsteps. She has sold over 300 million records worldwide and earned numerous awards throughout her career, including multiple Grammy Awards and Golden Globes.
5. Lisa Loeb
Lisa Loeb is an American singer-songwriter born on March 11, 1968, in Bethesda, Maryland. She first gained fame in the mid-1990s with her hit song “Stay (I Missed You),” which was featured in the film “Reality Bites” and earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Loeb’s music style can be described as a blend of pop, rock, and folk, and her lyrics often focus on personal experiences and relationships. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its sweet and slightly raspy quality, has become a trademark of her music.
In addition to her successful music career, Loeb is also an actress, author, and philanthropist. She has appeared in various films and TV shows, including “Gossip Girl” and “Fuller House,” and has published several children’s books.
Loeb has released over a dozen albums throughout her career, including her most recent album “A Simple Trick to Happiness,” which was released in 2019. She continues to tour and perform regularly, showcasing her talent as a singer-songwriter and her enduring popularity with fans.
Overall, Lisa Loeb has made a significant impact on the music industry with her unique voice and relatable lyrics, and her contributions to other areas such as acting and writing have further cemented her status as a multifaceted and talented artist.
6. Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple is an American singer-songwriter known for her haunting vocals, introspective lyrics, and unique musical style. Born on September 13, 1977, in New York City, Fiona began her music career in the mid-1990s with the release of her debut album “Tidal,” which included the hit singles “Shadowboxer” and “Criminal.” Her music is characterized by her powerful voice and raw emotion, which is often channeled into her introspective lyrics.
Fiona’s music has been described as a blend of alternative rock, jazz, and pop, and her influences range from jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone to rock icons like Elvis Costello and The Beatles. She is known for her poetic and often confessional lyrics, which explore themes such as love, heartbreak, and personal struggle.
Aside from her music career, Fiona is also a committed activist, speaking out on issues such as animal rights and LGBTQ rights. She has received numerous awards for her music, including a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album for her album “When the Pawn…” in 1999.
Overall, Fiona Apple is a unique and influential artist who has left a lasting impact on the music industry. Her haunting vocals, introspective lyrics, and unique musical style have inspired many, and her commitment to activism has made her an inspiration to fans around the world.
7. Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and actress who first gained fame in the mid-1990s with her hit album, “Tuesday Night Music Club.” Born in Kennett, Missouri, in 1962, Crow began her music career as a backup singer for artists such as Michael Jackson and Don Henley before launching her solo career.
Crow’s music is known for its blend of pop, rock, folk, and country elements, and her lyrics often touch on themes of love, relationships, and social and political issues. Her hits include “All I Wanna Do,” “If It Makes You Happy,” and “Everyday Is a Winding Road,” among others.
In addition to her music career, Crow has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as “The Minus Man” and “De-Lovely.” She has also been a prominent advocate for various causes, including environmentalism, cancer research, and animal rights.
Sheryl Crow’s impact on music and popular culture has been significant, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and a reputation as one of the most versatile and respected artists of her generation. Her powerful voice and relatable lyrics have inspired countless fans around the world, and her commitment to social and environmental causes has made her a role model for many.
8. Shakira
Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. She rose to international fame in the early 2000s with her unique blend of Latin, Arabic, and rock music styles, and has since become one of the world’s best-selling music artists.
Shakira’s music career spans over three decades and includes multiple Grammy Awards, Latin Grammy Awards, and other prestigious accolades. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its powerful and versatile range, has captivated audiences around the world. Her music often includes lyrics that address social and political issues, as well as themes of love, empowerment, and identity.
In addition to her music career, Shakira is also a humanitarian and philanthropist, known for her work with various charitable organizations. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has used her fame to advocate for issues such as education and child welfare.
Shakira’s impact on the music industry extends beyond her own music, as she has collaborated with numerous other artists and has been credited with popularizing Latin music globally. She has also been recognized for her impressive dance skills, which she incorporates into her live performances.
Overall, Shakira’s talent as a singer, songwriter, dancer, and humanitarian has made her a true icon in the music industry and a role model for many.
9. Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morissette is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her groundbreaking album, “Jagged Little Pill.” Born in Ottawa, Canada, in 1974, Morissette began her music career in her teenage years, releasing her debut album, “Alanis,” in 1991. However, it was her third album, “Jagged Little Pill,” released in 1995, that brought her international fame.
“Jagged Little Pill” was a landmark album, blending elements of alternative rock, pop, and folk music with Morissette’s confessional lyrics and powerful voice. The album spawned numerous hit singles, including “You Oughta Know,” “Hand In My Pocket,” and “Ironic,” and went on to sell over 33 million copies worldwide.
Throughout her career, Morissette has continued to explore personal and social issues through her music, touching on topics such as love, relationships, mental health, and spirituality. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie,” “Under Rug Swept,” and “Flavors of Entanglement.”
In addition to her music career, Morissette has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as “Dogma” and “We’re the Millers.” She has also been a prominent advocate for various causes, including mental health and women’s empowerment.
Alanis Morissette’s influence on music and popular culture has been significant, paving the way for a generation of female singer-songwriters with her honest, introspective lyrics and unique sound. She has won multiple Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
10. Aaliyah
Aaliyah was an American singer, actress, and model who rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop music. Born on January 16, 1979, in Brooklyn, New York, Aaliyah began her music career at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her powerful vocals and unique style.
Aaliyah’s music was characterized by her smooth, sultry vocals and her ability to effortlessly blend different genres of music. Her debut album “Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number” was released in 1994, and included the hit singles “Back & Forth” and “At Your Best (You Are Love).” Her follow-up album, “One in a Million,” was released in 1996 and cemented her status as a rising star in the music industry.
Tragically, Aaliyah’s life was cut short when she died in a plane crash in 2001, at the age of 22. Despite her short career, she left a lasting impact on the music industry, inspiring countless artists with her unique style and powerful voice.
Aside from her music career, Aaliyah was also an accomplished actress, with roles in films such as “Romeo Must Die” and “Queen of the Damned.” She was known for her beauty and charisma, and her influence continues to be felt in the music and entertainment industries to this day.
11. Beyoncé
Beyoncé is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur who has been a leading figure in the music industry for over two decades. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé first gained fame as a member of the girl group Destiny’s Child in the late 1990s. After the group disbanded, she launched a highly successful solo career, releasing hit albums such as “Dangerously in Love,” “B’Day,” and “Lemonade.”
Beyoncé is known for her powerful voice, captivating performances, and innovative music videos. She has explored a wide range of genres, including R&B, pop, hip-hop, and soul, and has collaborated with numerous artists throughout her career, including husband Jay-Z.
In addition to her music career, Beyoncé has also been a successful entrepreneur, launching her own fashion line, fragrance line, and production company. She has also been a prominent advocate for various causes, including gender equality, Black Lives Matter, and Hurricane Katrina relief.
Beyoncé’s impact on popular culture has been enormous, earning her a reputation as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. She has won 28 Grammy Awards, making her the most awarded female artist in Grammy history, and has sold over 100 million records worldwide. Her powerful voice and inspiring message have inspired millions of fans around the world.
12. Celine Dion
Celine Dion is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and actress born on March 30, 1968, in Charlemagne, Quebec. She rose to fame in the 1990s with her powerful and emotive vocal performances, and has since become one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Dion’s music style can be described as a blend of pop and adult contemporary, with influences from various genres including rock, R&B, and gospel. She is known for her soaring ballads and ability to convey strong emotions through her voice.
Dion has won numerous awards throughout her career, including five Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards for her contributions to film soundtracks. She is also known for her residencies in Las Vegas, where she performed to sold-out crowds for several years.
In addition to her music career, Dion is also a humanitarian and philanthropist. She has been actively involved in various charitable causes, including organizations focused on children’s welfare and cancer research.
Overall, Celine Dion’s impact on the music industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. Her talent as a vocalist and performer has made her a beloved and respected figure, and her contributions to charitable causes have further endeared her to fans around the world.
13. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and record producer born on March 27, 1969, in Huntington, New York. She first rose to fame in the 1990s with her powerful and distinctive five-octave vocal range and has since become one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Carey’s music style can be described as a blend of pop, R&B, and soul, and her lyrics often focus on themes of love, empowerment, and personal struggles. She is also known for her songwriting abilities and has written many of her own hit songs.
Throughout her career, Carey has won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards and 19 World Music Awards. She is also known for her impressive vocal acrobatics, often incorporating whistle notes and other techniques into her music.
In addition to her music career, Carey has also appeared in various films and television shows, showcasing her talents as an actress. She has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including her own charity organization, the Fresh Air Fund’s Camp Mariah.
14. Christina Aguilera
15. Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and fashion designer known for her distinctive voice, eclectic style, and larger-than-life personality. Born on October 3, 1969, in Fullerton, California, Gwen began her music career in the early 1990s as the lead vocalist of the ska-punk band No Doubt.
Gwen’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals and catchy pop hooks, which blend elements of ska, punk, and new wave. As a solo artist, she has released several successful albums, including “Love. Angel. Music. Baby.” and “The Sweet Escape,” which included the hit singles “Hollaback Girl” and “Wind It Up.”
Aside from her music career, Gwen is also a successful fashion designer, with her own fashion line, L.A.M.B. She has also been a judge on the hit television show “The Voice” and has appeared in several films, including “Zoolander” and “Trolls.”
Overall, Gwen Stefani is a multi-talented artist who has left an indelible mark on the music and fashion industries. Her powerful voice and catchy pop hooks have made her a beloved icon, and her unique style and larger-than-life personality have inspired countless fans around the world.
16. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was an American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with her powerful vocals and captivating performances. Born on August 9, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, Houston grew up in a musical family and began singing in the church choir at a young age. She was later discovered by music executive Clive Davis and signed to Arista Records, launching her career as a solo artist.
Houston’s self-titled debut album was released in 1985 and quickly became a success, spawning hit singles such as “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know.” She continued to dominate the charts with subsequent albums, including “Whitney” and “The Bodyguard” soundtrack, which featured her iconic rendition of “I Will Always Love You.”
In addition to her successful music career, Houston also ventured into acting, starring in films such as “The Bodyguard” and “Waiting to Exhale.” Despite her talent and success, Houston struggled with drug addiction and personal turmoil in her later years, which led to a decline in her career and ultimately her untimely death in 2012.
Houston’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, with her powerful vocals, emotional performances, and chart-topping hits earning her numerous accolades and cementing her status as one of the greatest singers of all time.
17. Björk
Björk is an Icelandic singer, songwriter, actress, and producer known for her experimental music, unique style, and artistic vision. Born on November 21, 1965, in Reykjavík, Iceland, Björk began her music career in the late 1970s and early 1980s with the Icelandic punk band Tappi Tíkarrass.
Björk’s music is characterized by her haunting vocals, electronic beats, and eclectic instrumentation, which often includes elements of folk music, classical music, and avant-garde experimentation. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Debut,” “Homogenic,” and “Vespertine,” which have been praised for their innovative sound and poetic lyrics.
Aside from her music career, Björk is also an accomplished actress, with roles in films such as “Dancer in the Dark” and “The Juniper Tree.” She is known for her unique style, which often includes avant-garde fashion and elaborate costumes.
Overall, Björk is a visionary artist who has pushed the boundaries of music and art throughout her career. Her innovative sound, haunting vocals, and poetic lyrics have inspired countless musicians and artists, and her unique style and artistic vision have made her a beloved icon in the music and fashion industries.
18. Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who first rose to fame in the late 1980s with her debut single “The Loco-Motion.” Born on May 28, 1968, in Melbourne, Australia, Minogue began her career as an actress, appearing in popular television shows and soap operas before pursuing music.
In 1987, Minogue signed a recording contract with Mushroom Records and released her debut album, “Kylie,” which spawned several hit singles, including “I Should Be So Lucky” and “Got to Be Certain.” She continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s, including “Rhythm of Love” and “Light Years,” which featured her signature dance-pop sound and catchy hooks.
In addition to her music career, Minogue has also acted in numerous films and television shows, including the hit Australian soap opera “Neighbours” and the film “Moulin Rouge!” She has also been a judge on the singing competition show “The Voice UK” and has been awarded numerous accolades for her contributions to music and entertainment.
Throughout her career, Minogue has remained a beloved icon in the music industry, known for her infectious pop hits, glamorous image, and energetic live performances. She has sold over 70 million records worldwide and continues to inspire fans with her upbeat music and positive spirit.
19. LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes is an American singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her powerful vocals and country-pop sound. Born on August 28, 1982, in Jackson, Mississippi, LeAnn began her music career at a young age and released her debut album, “Blue,” in 1996 at the age of 13.
LeAnn’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals and her ability to blend elements of country, pop, and rock music. She has released several successful albums, including “You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs,” which won a Grammy Award in 1998, and “This Woman,” which included the hit single “Nothin’ Better to Do.”
Aside from her music career, LeAnn is also an accomplished actress, with roles in films such as “Logan Lucky” and “Coyote Ugly.” She has also appeared in several television shows, including “Anger Management” and “Hollywood Medium with Tyler Henry.”
Overall, LeAnn Rimes is a talented singer and actress who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her powerful vocals and unique style have inspired countless fans around the world, and her success as both a musician and an actress is a testament to her versatility and talent.
20. Trisha Yearwood
Trisha Yearwood is an American country singer and cookbook author who has been a prominent figure in the music industry since the early 1990s. Born on September 19, 1964, in Monticello, Georgia, Trisha began her music career in the late 1980s as a demo singer in Nashville, Tennessee.
Trisha’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals and her ability to convey emotion through her songs. She has released several successful albums, including “She’s in Love with the Boy,” which became a number one hit on the country charts, and “Thinkin’ About You,” which included the hit single “XXX’s and OOO’s (An American Girl).”
Aside from her music career, Trisha is also a successful cookbook author, with several bestselling cookbooks to her name. She has also appeared in several television shows, including “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen” on the Food Network.
Overall, Trisha Yearwood is a talented singer and author who has made a significant impact on the music and culinary industries. Her powerful vocals and emotional performances have inspired countless fans around the world, and her success as a cookbook author is a testament to her versatility and creativity.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
