37 Best 2010s Female Singers

Like with all decades, the 2010s had its standout musicians. While there were many talented guys too, today we’ll look at the best 2010s female singers.

1. Beyoncé

Beyoncé has made a significant mark on the music industry throughout the 2010s. Her journey from an R&B group member of Destiny's Child to becoming a successful solo performer portrays her talent and relentless determination.

As an award-winning pop star, she is also recognized for her business acumen in the entertainment industry. Notably, one of her most extraordinary feats includes bagging the most awards by a female artist in one night.

2. Lady Gaga

Born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, Lady Gaga has been shaking up the pop music scene for a decade. She is known for flamboyant costumes and provocative lyrics, making even simple events feel like grand performances. Chart-topping singles such as “Poker Face” and “Bad Romance” reflect her monumental success.

From open mic nights to worldwide recognition, Gaga always advocates through art. Best known for appearing in a meat dress, Gaga uses music videos and songs to address societal issues like LGBTQ+ rights and fame-obsessed culture.

3. Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish became an unexpected sensation towards the latter part of the 2010s, first releasing music at the age of 13. Her debut album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? became a cultural phenomenon, challenging the norms of pop music.

Beyond her music, Eilish became an emblem for teenage self-expression and the challenges of growing up in the limelight and becoming the youngest artist to win the main Grammy categories in a single year.

4. Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey is an incredibly talented vocalist and songwriter who has significantly impacted the music industry. Influenced by jazz and soul legends like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone – she has the names Billie and Nina tattooed on her arm as a tribute to these influential figures – her music has a unique atmospheric quality that sets her apart from other artists.

After her 2010 self-titled debut album rocketed up in the charts, audiences quickly realized her melancholic sound and cinematic approach was something to watch. Lana Del Rey continues to captivate audiences with each new release.

5. Rihanna

Rihanna, a Barbadian sensation, skyrocketed to fame in the 2010s. As an acclaimed singer and actress, she spent the early part of the decade marking significant milestones in her career, releasing two successful albums, Talk That Talk and Unapologetic, and then in 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty, offering inclusive makeup products for all skin tones.

Unsurprisingly, Rihanna is currently acclaimed as the second-best-selling female music artist of all time!

6. Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift, also known as Tay, but her fans are called Swifties, is a Grammy-winning artist who dominated the music scene in the 2010s. Her critically acclaimed albums didn't just top charts but bridged the gap between country and pop music with unrivaled success.

We can't discuss Swift without mentioning her historic win at the 2021 Grammys. She became the first female artist to secure Album of The Year three times! This achievement alone underscores why Billboard honored her with the Woman of The Decade Award in 2019.

7. Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, gained worldwide fame for her role in the TV show “Hannah Montana.” With her down-to-earth relatability and comedic skills, she quickly became a teen idol.

Miley Cyrus has proven to be more than just a child star from Disney Channel. She possesses a strong singing voice and natural comedic abilities that have catapulted her into breakout success in the music industry.

8. Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is a talented female rapper who has had an incredible impact on the music industry in the 2010s. According to Billboard, she is the top-selling female rapper of this decade and considered the greatest female rapper of all time, with twenty-two top 10 singles on the Billboard chart.

One of Nicki Minaj's strengths is her ability to collaborate with diverse artists. She has worked alongside established rappers and up-and-coming talents to create unique, groundbreaking tracks that push boundaries and challenge traditional genres.

9. Björk

Hailing from Iceland, the enigmatic singer Björk has long been revered for her avant-garde approach to music, and the 2010s were no different. The decade saw her release two albums that offered a deep exploration of heartbreak and healing. 

Her eclectic mix of electronic, classical, and folk sounds, her emotive voice, and intricate lyrics solidifies her status as a visionary artist continually pushing the limits of musical expression. Her music videos often offer a unique view of the world and feature Icelandic landscapes.

10. Brittany Howard

Brittany Howard's passionate vocals are not just a sound but an experience. Best known as the lead vocalist of Alabama Shakes, her blues-infused rock has a distinct southern grit that captivated audiences in the 2010s.

Her debut album Jaime showcased her eclectic musicality and deep introspection. It blended genres from gospel to funk and solidified her place as one of the decade's most versatile and powerful voices.

11. Phoebe Bridgers

Soft-spoken yet profoundly moving, Phoebe Bridgers rose as an indie music sensation throughout the 2010s. Her debut album was an intimate glimpse into her universe, marked by haunting melodies and candid lyrics.

Bridgers' ability to narrate intricate stories of heartbreak, growth, and human connection set her apart, and collaborative projects showcased her versatility as one of the decade's most compelling singer-songwriters.

12. Emily Kokal

The ethereal voice behind the renowned band Warpaint, Emily Kokal, is a force to be reckoned with. Her hauntingly beautiful vocals, paired with the band's psychedelic melodies, became a hallmark of alternative rock.

Warpaint's ability to weave moody atmospheres with compelling lyrics, much attributed to Kokal's influence, has made them one of the most intriguing acts of the decade.

13. Victoria Legrand

Victoria Legrand is one half of the dream-pop duo Beach House. Her deep, almost haunting vocals and the band's signature lush soundscapes have been integral to defining dream pop for a new generation and securing Beach House's place as one of the genre's pillars.

Tracks like “Myth” and “Space Song” showcase her capacity to transport audiences to otherworldly realms.

14. Angel Olsen

Angel Olsen's music is nothing short of mesmerizing, capable of moving from whispers to roars. Her evolution from folk-infused melodies to indie rock anthems has showcased her dynamic artistry, and songs like “Shut Up Kiss Me” and “All Mirrors” underline her versatility.

With her emotionally charged lyrics and distinctive sound, Olsen became a beacon for authenticity and emotional depth in the indie music scene of the decade.

15. Florence Welch

Florence Welch's voice is a powerhouse of emotion that she uses as the frontwoman of the iconic Florence + the Machine. The 2010s saw hits like “Shake It Out” and “Dog Days Are Over,” cementing her position as one of pop's ethereal queens.

Welch's lyrical poetry speaks to the human experience's universality, wrapped in lush orchestral arrangements that take listeners on an emotional roller coaster.

16. Fiona Apple

As a pianist and singer-songwriter, Apple's musical landscapes remain unparalleled, and her ability to convey complex emotions in simple yet evocative terms ensures her legacy as one of the most profound artists of her generation.

Fiona Apple's 2012 album, “The Idler Wheel…” showcased Apple's unyielding honesty, diving deep into introspection and raw emotion.

17. Lorde

Lorde, whose real name is Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor, is a talented singer, musician, and songwriter from New Zealand who rose to prominence with a unique brand of pop music influenced by American jazz and soul musicians like Billie Holiday and Otis Redding.

Lorde brought a fresh sound to the music industry, and her breakout single “Royals” became a huge hit. It earned her Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance.

18. Sharon Jones

Sharon Jones was an American soul and funk singer who significantly impacted the music industry in the 2010s, gaining recognition as the “Godmother of Soul” in the 21st century.

She was the lead vocalist of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, a band known for their soulful sound and energetic performances. Yet her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence helped her become one of the best female singers of her time. Sadly, she passed away on November 18, 2016, leaving a remarkable musical legacy.

19. Carly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen is a Canadian singer and songwriter who gained widespread recognition for her catchy hit song “Call Me Maybe.” She studied musical theater but her musical ability and dedication to her craft have earned her a place among the best artists of the decade.

With her vocal talents and relatable lyrics, Carly Rae Jepsen has continued to release critically acclaimed music that resonates with her dedicated fanbase in Canada and worldwide.

20. Mitski

Mitski Miyawaki, popularly known as Mitski, emerged in the 2010s as one of the decade's most compelling indie rock voices. Her poignant lyrics and an eclectic mix of musical styles echo the sentiments of love, identity, and the intricate nuances of life.

With her commanding presence and heartfelt storytelling, Mitski has established herself as a critical voice for introspection and raw vulnerability in modern music.

21. FKA Twigs

FKA Twigs, born Tahliah Debrett Barnett, arrived on the 2010s music scene with her unique blend of trip-hop, R&B, and avant-garde pop. Her debut album, LP1, was a masterclass in experimental soundscapes paired with her ethereal voice.

However, Twigs is more than just a singer; she's a complete performer, incorporating intricate dance and visuals into her artistic persona, making her one of the decade's most groundbreaking artists.

22. Julia Holter

An American singer-songwriter, record producer, and composer, Julia Holter's music is a meditative exploration of sound and emotion. Throughout the 2010s, she released albums like Have You in My Wilderness, a testament to her ability to weave classical arrangements, ambient soundscapes, and pop melodies seamlessly.

Her commitment to crafting intricate and immersive musical experiences and independent releases makes her one of the standout experimental artists of the decade.

23. Annie Clark (St. Vincent)

Annie Clark, better known by her stage name St. Vincent, has been a force to reckon with in the 2010s. Her music blends rock, pop, and electronic into her unique sound, while her virtuosic guitar skills and her artful songwriting make her stand out in the crowd.

Tracks like “Digital Witness” and “New York” showcase her ability to comment on contemporary life with sharp wit and melodic flair. Annie Clark has carved a niche for herself as one of the most inventive artists of the decade.

24. Hayley Williams

As the fiery frontwoman of Paramore, Hayley Williams was already an established name before the 2010s. However, this decade saw her explore new sonic territories with her band and as a solo artist.

Songs like “Ain't It Fun” showcased Paramore's evolution, but her solo effort “Simmer” highlighted her personal and musical growth with raw energy, emotional depth, and vocal prowess.

25. Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa is an English and Albanian singer-songwriter whose disco-inspired music began its meteoric rise in the latter half of the 2010s is a testament to her undeniable talent and charisma. The British singer-songwriter burst onto the scene with hits like “New Rules” and “Don't Start Now,” setting dancefloors ablaze worldwide.

With her rich, sultry voice and knack for catchy pop anthems, Lipa quickly became one of the defining artists of the late 2010s.

26. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress. Her music embodies multiple identities and timelines, making her a 21st-century time traveler in the industry. Yet it was her close friendship with the late Prince which served as an inspiration to her and influenced her artistic style.

In the 2010’s she released three fantastic albums, “The Archandroid” “The Electric Lady”  and “Dirty Computer”. Each with a distinct sound and theme, but always pushing her limits when it comes to progressive music in the realm of pop and R&B.

She has become an inspirational artist who has achieved her dreams and continues to captivate audiences with her unique sound and persona.

27. Adele

Adele is a highly successful singer who has significantly impacted the music industry, with over 120 million records sold worldwide. She has received numerous awards for her talent, including best new artist, best female pop vocal performance, and the U.K.'s best-selling female Artist of the 2010s.

Adele's powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate audiences worldwide, making her a true superstar in pop music.

28. Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato gained popularity after appearing on the children's television series Barney & Friends from 2002 to 2004. Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Whitney Houston, and Aretha Franklin influenced her eclectic music style, which has earned her five People’s Choice Awards.

She has been a vocal advocate of LGBT+ rights and has been open about her struggles with addiction, serving as a spokesperson for recovery.

29. Kacey Musgraves

Born in Golden, Texas, Musgraves' roots heavily influenced her singer-songwriter career, earning her six Grammy Awards and seven Country Music Association Awards.

Her song “Follow Your Arrow” encourages listeners to be true to themselves, and with her award-winning talent and influential presence in the industry, Kacey Musgraves continues to capture audiences with her remarkable songwriting ability and captivating voice.

30. Lizzo

Lizzo, the talented singer from Detroit, Michigan, embodies a message of positivity that shines through her powerful music. She fearlessly tackles important topics such as race, sexuality, and body confidence in her songs with infectious energy and empowering lyrics, winning her a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance.

Lizzo's unique blend of soulful vocals and catchy beats makes her an artist worth listening to for anyone seeking uplifting music with a powerful message.

31. Chrystia Cabral (SPELLLING)

Chrystia Cabral, who performs under the moniker SPELLLING, offers a haunting blend of experimental pop and synth-driven soundscapes. Her “Under the Sun” track exemplifies her talent for combining ethereal vocals with pulsing rhythms.

Drawing from R&B, darkwave, and electronica elements, Cabral creates a sonic realm that's otherworldly and deeply human.

32. Natalie Mering (Weyes Blood)

Natalie Mering, known professionally as Weyes Blood, brought a captivating blend of folk and art-pop to the 2010s. Her 2019 release “Titanic Rising” was widely acclaimed, with tracks like “Andromeda” showcasing her rich vocals and talent for crafting timeless ballads.

With themes touching on love, loss, and the human connection to the cosmos, Mering's work often feels both intimate and cosmic, reflecting the grandeur and fragility of existence.

33. Joanna Newsom

Joanna Newsom is an American singer-songwriter and actress who has made a name for herself in the indie music scene. Her unique style encapsulates folk-inspired melodies and poetic lyrics.

She is known for playing the harp, which adds a beautiful and experimental element to her music and possesses a soprano voice, the highest range for classical female singers, which sets her apart from other artists of our time and showcases her talent as a singer and songwriter.

34. Tracey Thorn

Tracey Thorn is a talented British singer and songwriter who rose to fame as one-half of the musical duo Everything but the Girl, but her solo career has also garnered much success.

One notable achievement in Thorn's career is her collaboration with Massive Attack on the track “Better Things.” Her soulful vocals can be heard throughout the song, adding depth and emotion to the captivating lyrics.

35. Kaki King

Kaki King is an American musician, instrumentalist, and composer known for her exceptional guitar skills. She has created a unique style of music that blends percussive elements with jazz melodies.

What sets Kaki King apart is her innovative use of multiple guitar tunings, which adds depth and richness to her compositions, leading her to gain recognition as one of the best female singers, showcasing her talent as both a guitarist and a vocalist.

36. Mavis Staples

Mavis Staples, born on July 10th, 1939, in Chicago, is an American rhythm and blues and gospel singer. She began her music career at a young age, performing with her family's Staple Singers group.

Her moving performances and inspirational activism has touched many people, and she continues to motivate others through her music and advocacy work. Most of her music is often about hope and resilience, and she has used her platform to speak out about important issues such as social justice and environmental protection.

37. Sharon Van Etten

Sharon Van Etten is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter who released several albums, including “Because I Was in Love” and “Epic.” Rolling Stone Magazine even named her one of the best female singers of the decade.

One thing that sets Sharon Van Etten apart is her unique blend of folk-inspired melodies, introspective lyrics, and collaborations. She truly stands out as a top-rated artist in today's music landscape.

Top Female Singers From The 2010s, Final Thoughts

The 2010s have been a remarkable decade for these talented artists who have dominated the charts with their powerful voices and impactful songs.

These top 2010s female singers have inspired millions of fans worldwide with their creativity and ability to connect through music. The future looks bright for female musicians as they continue to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a successful artist in the ever-evolving world of pop music.