80s glam rock was known for stiletto heels, heavy makeup, leopard tights, and big hair. And that was just for dudes. Aerosmith’s “Dude, Looks Like a Lady” put it in perspective.
Ironically, in 80s hair metal bands, guys were trying to look as feminine as possible, the girls only played the part of groupies and video vixens. Guitar solos was still testosterone filled. Women who rocked was viewed as a novelty item in the heavy metal music world so only a handful of female hair bands has had commercial success.
1. Lita Ford
Lita Ford will always be the Queen of Metal. She was the lead guitarist for the 70s punk band The Runaways. Upon going solo, she sang hits such as “Kiss Me Deadly” and “Close My Eyes Forever”. Arguably one of the best guitarist of all time, she can shred with the best of them.
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Best Lita Ford songs >
2. Vixen
The most successful band with chart success is Vixen. They were the brain child of the late guitarist Jan Kuehnemund. After several lineup changes, they finally scored big hits with their big hair on their debut album with “Cryin'” and “Edge of a Broken Heart”.
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3. Saraya
4. Precious Metal
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4. Fiona
Duet with Kip Winger of Winger
Other lesser known female hair metal artists and bands include Femme Fatale and Poison Dollys. They all made major label recordings but never really achieved stardom.
