Lately, I've come across a great variety of female musicians that have really impacted the way I listen to music. I thought it necessary to share my findings by compiling a list. While this is not intended to be an in-depth review of these artists, it is simply a starting point for others to discover their music. I have to say that I used to be a skeptic about female vocalists and thought them to be too "girly" and "poppy". While some are, others bring much more to the table. So here are my favorites:
1. Gillian Welch- I saw Gillian open for Bright Eyes in Nashville at the historic Ryman Auditorium and it was love at first sight. Her voice is captivating and contains that southern twang (although she's not southern) that really captures the essence of her music. Favorite Song: Annabelle.
2. Jenny Lewis- Whether she's rocking with indie group Rilo Kiley or harmonizing with The Watson Twins, Jenny Lewis always delivers. Her voice has tremendous range and can deliver a variety of musical genres. Favorite Song: Born Secular-Jenny Lewis and The Watson Twins.
3. Neko Case- Like Jenny Lewis, Case is a member of multiple bands. Although she is most known for her solo efforts, she also tours with The New Pornographers. Probably the most powerful vocalists I've ever heard. With a piercing voice that cuts through the silence and superb songwriting, she is the alt-country queen. Favorite Song: Maybe Sparrow.
4. Maria Taylor- Like Gillian Welch, I discovered Maria through the band Bright Eyes. She has done vocals on many Bright Eyes records and has two solid LPs of her own. With a new EP released this week, she's rapidly gaining popularity and has been featured on shows like Grey's Anatomy. Favorite Song: Smile and Wave.
5. Ingrid Michaelson- Rounding out the top five is Ingrid Michaelson. While she is a "pop-star", her music does reveal some indie influences, as well. Just off a tour with Josh Ritter, she is now headlining her own tour and catapulting to the forefront of the musical world.
Other Notables: Tegan and Sara, Cat Power, Stars/Broken Social Scene, Pricilla Ahn, She and Him, Regina Spektor, Nicole Atkins, and Tilly and the Wall.
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