In honor of Women's History Month, we first dove into the sounds and influence of Riot Grrrl, the 90s feminist punk movement. Now, let's dig into some releases from women shaping the music scene today.

Since 1987, the month of March has been dedicated to Women's History Month. It designates time to reflect on women's achievements over the years, particularly across male-dominated industries—music included. But it goes without saying that the work, presence, and impact of women have always been ongoing. Amplify women's voices no matter the month or day.

Today's top anthems definitely speak to the progress made. As of this writing, the artists trending globally on Last.fm include Rosé of Blackpink, Blackpink as a whole, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Kali Uchis, Mitski, and Doja Cat.

There's also a wave of rising women artists ripping through the undercurrents right now. They're playing by their own rules and making music that connects, resonates, and represents a new generation of listeners like never before. Below, we highlight releases from artists to know.

The list is far from conclusive and by no means intends to dismiss industry barriers that still need work today. But whether you're here for song recommendations or you're here to cheer on your faves getting recognition they deserve, we hope this can be a starting point to diversify the voices on your daily rotation.

Andrekza
Now Scrobbling: “TÉ"

Just last year, Andrekza signed onto Dim Mak En Fuego, Steve Aoki's Latin music label. She became the label's first woman signee and went on to release her debut single “TÉ." While her double milestones are wins for the representation of Latinx and woman artists, her art speaks for itself. Over the soft beats of “TÉ," Andrekza uses her poetic prowess to bring forward nuances in small, everyday gestures like drinking tea.

AOI
Now Scrobbling: “a tulip with no shadow blossoms“

For AOI, procrastination can still lead to productivity. The Tokyo-based 17-year-old began making lo-fi study beats as a means to avoid studying. Her take on the viral genre (often on YouTube) is what it would be like if you were to put sound to the touch of silk. With just two releases out via the label, Godmode, it only makes sense to anticipate what we'll hear from AOI next.

Aziya
Now Scrobbling: “Slip!“

Taking on keys, guitar, and vocals, Aziya went viral last year for her supercharged cover of “Oblivion" by Grimes. The London-based singer-songwriter now has an original song out, “Slip!," on which we hear her stunning vocal and shredding chops through her own storytelling. To be able to see her career take off speaks to the nature of music discovery today.

Beabadoobee
Now Scrobbling: “Last Day On Earth“

British-Filipina artist Bea Kristi, also known as Beabadoobee, has undoubtedly been one to watch over the last few years. She made her breakthrough in the bedroom pop genre with “Coffee," and then again via TikTok, where the song went viral after sampled in Powfu's “death bed." Her personality and playful approach to everyday life shine in her music, naturally providing Gen Z a day-to-day soundtrack that covers all grounds.

BRIDEAR
Now Scrobbling: “Bloody Bride“

Ahead of their debut international album, BRIDEAR has released lead single “Daybreak" and title track “Bloody Bride." Thrash and technical prowess meet a touch of pop lustre as the Japanese quintet layers melodic vocals with adrenalized shredding. They're known for bringing the heat to power metal in Japan, and now they get to do so on a global stage.

Chloe x Halle
Now Scrobbling: “Ungodly Hour“

Sisters Chloe and Halle Bailey act, songwrite, and produce music. Their talent has caught the attention of Beyonce, Michelle Obama, and, understandably, an entire generation of people. They're not exactly “on the rise" at this point, but their ever-soaring influence calls for a mention. While their music is a heaven-sent blend of pop and R&B, their lyrics are grounded in unapologetic honesty. “Ungodly Hour," for example, is a confession of imperfections as much as it is an empowering anthem.

Imanigold
Now Scrobbling: “Ride On“

You might recognize April Kae from her Instagram bass covers of Tame Impala, Bill Withers, and more. With her sister, Nikki, they make up the band, Imanigold. But what makes the duo stand out is their incredible transparency about their journey as self-employed, self-produced artists. If anything, Imanigold feels more like a collective that fosters art and support than solely a band. The duo's last official release was 2017's “Ride On," a dreamy ode to not settling down just yet. But they've stated that new music is on the way this year.

Meet Me @ The Altar
Now Scrobbling: “Hit Like A Girl“

Edith Johnson, Téa Campbell, and Ada Juarez of Meet Me @ The Altar prove that pop punk is alive and well—and finally no longer the boys club it was once circa the early 2000s. The trio recently signed onto Fueled By Ramen and have since been turning in undeniable bangers that lay on vibrant riffs as much as they do hard-hitting hooks.

Olivia Rodrigo
Now Scrobbling: “drivers license“

As far as breakthroughs go, Olivia Rodrigo's felt like a supernova. The High School Musical: The Musical actress went from “on the rise" to skyrocketing on global charts after the release of “drivers license." Not only did Rodrigo's single become the designated anthem of young, unrequited love, but Rodrigo, herself, emerged a Gen Z icon representing the next generation of artists to come.

Tiera
Now Scrobbling: “Not Your Girl“

Elements of pop and R&B elevate Tiera's music, but country lies at the heart of it all. The Alabama native brings new life to the Nashville scene, combining her soulful flow and lovestruck lyrics with an unmistakable rustic flavor. From posting covers and original songs on Youtube to getting recognition from Shania Twain, Tiera is a rising star in her own right. But she's also a prominent voice for the country genre's increasingly diverse audience.

Words by Chloe Catajan

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