1. Shirley Manson was a total firecracker. She led Garbage with this bold, “take it or leave it” energy. I remember hearing “Only Happy When It Rains” and thinking, “Whoa, she’s got guts.” That red hair and gritty voice? Unforgettable.

2. Gwen Stefani ruled ska-punk with No Doubt. She’d bounce around stage in crop tops and cool bindis, looking like she owned the place. “Don’t Speak” was everywhere back then—still gives me chills. She made it all look so easy.

3. Dolores O’Riordan? Her voice hit you right in the chest. With The Cranberries, she sang “Zombie” like she was pouring her heart out. I heard it as a kid and couldn’t shake it. She was real, raw, and gone too soon.

4. D’Arcy Wretzky kept it low-key but solid. She played bass for The Smashing Pumpkins, and albums like Siamese Dream wouldn’t be the same without her. Quiet or not, she was a big deal.

5. Melissa Auf der Maur was all over the place—in a good way. She rocked the bass for Hole, then The Smashing Pumpkins, and even did her own thing later. Plus, she’s into photography.

Talk about a rock star with range!
These ladies didn’t mess around. They proved rock’s for anyone who’s got the heart to grab a mic or strum a chord. And you know what? They’re still pushing people to pick up a guitar today.