No matter what era you explore in the country music world, you’re sure to find a bevy of talented female singers. And the ’80s were no different, as there were plenty of talented women gracing the airwaves with their songs.
From superstars like Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn to up-and-comers like Reba McEntire and Wynonna Judd, these ladies blazed a trail that would be followed by many more in the years to come.
So if you’re a fan of country music, or just looking to explore some of the best music from the ’80s, then check out this list of the 50+ best female country singers of the ’80s.
Top Best Female Country Singers of the 80s
There are many great country singers out there but these ten ladies really stood out during the 1980s. They have all left a lasting impression on country music and are still beloved by fans today.
- Dolly Parton
- Reba McEntire
- Tanya Tucker
- The Judds
- Kathy Mattea
- Patty Loveless
- Alison Krauss
- Suzy Bogguss
- Juice Newton
- Lucinda Williams
Forgotten Female Country Singers of the 80s
No doubt the 80s produced some of the most iconic female country singers of all time. But there are also many talented women who have been forgotten over the years. That doesn’t mean their music isn’t worth exploring, though.
In fact, some of these ladies have truly great voices and stories to tell through their songs. And while they may not be as well-known as the Dolly Partons and Reba McEntires of the world, they’re still worth checking out
So if you’re looking to expand your musical horizons, or just want to enjoy some great country music from a bygone era, then be sure to check out these forgotten female country singers of the 80s.
- Lynn Anderson
- Susie Allanson
- Susan Raye
- Sammi Smith
- Holly Dunn
- Linda Martell
- Margie Bowens
Early, Mid, Late 80s Female Country Singers
Every decade can be broken down into three distinct parts, and the 80s are no different.
In the early 1980s, female country singers were beginning to gain popularity. Some of the most successful singers at this time were Reba McEntire, Barbara Mandrell, and Crystal Gayle. These singers had a more traditional sound that appealed to country music fans.
By the mid-1980s, there was a new wave of female country singers who were incorporating more pop elements into their music. This led to increased mainstream success for artists like Patty Loveless and Lynn Anderson.
And by the late 80s, there was another shift in the country music landscape. This time, there was a move towards more modern sounds, which led to increased success for artists like Emily Strayer and Kathy Mattea.
Regardless of when they emerged, all of these female country singers made a significant impact on the music industry and helped to shape the sound of country music for years to come.
Early 80s Female Country Singers
- Reba McEntire
- Tanya Tucker
- Crystal Gayle
- Barbara Mandrell
- Anne Murray
Mid 80s Female Country Singers
- Patty Loveless
- Mary Chapin Carpenter
- Lynn Anderson
- Lucinda Williams
- Tanya Tucker
Late 80s Female Country Singers
- Emily Strayer
- Kathy Mattea
- Naomi Judd
- Wynonna Judd
80s American Female Country Singers
It is America’s gift to the world, country music. And there are few places that have produced as many talented country singers as the United States.
And when it comes to females in the game, the 80s was a decade that saw many great American country singers emerge. Artists like Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, and Reba McEntire were all at the top of their game during this decade.
These artists brought a whole new level of sophistication and artistry to the genre, while still maintaining the down-home, country feel that fans love.
In addition to their musical prowess, these female country singers were also known for their strong independent streak. They were women who carved out their own place in a male-dominated industry and blazed a trail for many more to follow.
That said, check out this list of the 80s best American female country singers. You’re sure to find some new favorites.
- Dolly Parton
- Reba McEntire
- Loretta Lynn
- Tammy Wynette
- Alison Krauss
- Daniele Alexander
- Susie Allanson
- Deborah Allen
- Lisa Angelle
- Joan Baez
Canadian Female Country Singers of the 80s
Canada is known for many things, like its natural beauty, its friendly people, and of course, its great music. But it is also home to some of the best country singers in the world.
Some of the most successful Canadian female country singers of the 80s include Anne Murray, Rita MacNeil, and Buffy Sainte-Marie. These artists found crossover success by incorporating pop elements into their music.
But they also maintained a strong connection to their country roots, which helped them to appeal to a wide range of fans. What’s more is that their songs often reflect the beauty and ruggedness of the Canadian landscape, which is something that many people can relate to.
So if you’re looking for some great Canadian female country singers of the 80s, then be sure to check out this list.
- Sharon Anderson
- Rita MacNeil
- Buffy Sainte-Marie
- Jessie Burns
- Cindi Cain
- Rena Gaile
- Chris Nielsen
- Anne Murray
- Sherry Kean
- Joan Kennedy
80s Young Female Country Singers
In this section, we will take a look at some of the 80s young female country singers who made a name for themselves during this decade.
These artists were often lauded for their unique sound and fresh perspective. And while they may not have had the same level of success as some of the more established singers on this list, they are still worth checking out.
- Stephanie Winslow
- Sheila Andrews
- Shelly West
- Stella Parton
- Louise Mandrell
- Sheena Easton
- Kim Carnes
- Crystal Gayle
Blonde Female Country Singers of the 80s
When we think of blonde singers, we often think of pop stars like Madonna or Britney Spears. But there are also many blonde female country singers who made a name for themselves in the 80s.
Women like Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Barbara Mandrell were all blonde and beautiful. But more importantly, they were also extremely talented.
In an industry that is often dominated by men, these women used their looks and their talents to take control of their careers and prove that they were forces to be reckoned with.
- Kathy Mattea
- Dolly Parton
- Lorrie Morgan
- Barbara Mandrell
- Alison Krauss
- Lynn Anderson
- Connie Smith
- Lucinda Williams
Wrapping Up
These are the singers that helped to make the 80s one of the best decades ever for country music. And as this list shows, there was no shortage of talent from both the United States and Canada.
Be it the sweet sound of Anne Murray or the sassy swagger of Shania Twain, these female singers had a lot to offer. And now that you know who they are, be sure to check out their music and explore all that the 80s had to offer.
Happy listening!
