Top Rock Voices of Women: Joan Jett, Linda Ronstadt, Ann Wilson, and Pat Benatar
When it comes to powerful and iconic rock voices, four women singers stand out: Joan Jett, Linda Ronstadt, Ann Wilson, and Pat Benatar. Each of these artists has a unique and distinct sound that has made them legends in the rock world. In this article, we explore the strengths and contributions of each singer to determine who truly emerges as the queen of rock.
Introduction
The discussion of who has the best rock voice among these remarkable women singers can be a subjective and passionate debate. Joan Jett, Linda Ronstadt, Ann Wilson, and Pat Benatar have left an indelible mark on the rock music scene, each contributing their unique talents and styles to the genre. It's important to recognize that while a comparison may be made, all four artists are unique in their own right and have their own genre of rock that they excel in.
Ann Wilson: Unrivaled Power and Phrasing
Among the four, Ann Wilson stands out for her unrivaled power and phrasing. Her voice can be likened to that of a female Robert Plant, offering a comparable force and recklessness. Wilson's shattering performances are evident in her work with Heart, particularly in songs like Barracuda and Black on Black. Her ability to convey raw emotion and deliver powerful vocals, often with an almost operatic flair, elevates her voice to a level that is truly remarkable.
Joan Jett: The Epitome of Rock and Roll
Joan Jett is known for her punk rock style, which is evident in her distinctive sound and vocal range. While Jett is undoubtedly a powerhouse frontwoman, her voice is more confined to a single octave. Her Barracuda, for instance, showcases her ability to deliver a memorable performance, but her overall range and power do not quite measure up to Ann Wilson's.
Pat Benatar: The Versatile Classically Trained Vocalist
Pat Benatar is another incredible rock voice, characterized by her classically trained vocal techniques and impressive range. Her ability to handle both hard rock and soft pop songs with ease is a testament to her versatility. Songs like Hit Me with Your Best Shot highlight the power and precise control of her voice. However, while she can match Ann Wilson note for note, Pat Benatar's voice lacks the raw and untrained intensity that is characteristic of Ann Wilson.
Linda Ronstadt: Vocally Versatile but Not Rock-Heavy
Linda Ronstadt is perhaps the most versatile of the four, excelling in both voice and performance. While she is a powerful and skilled vocalist, her rock contributions are more on the softer side, which is evident in her work with The Eagles during the early stages of her career. Her ability to manage multiple octaves is unparalleled, showcasing her vocal prowess in a wide range of genres. However, she ultimately falls short in the hard-rock category due to her musical styles leaning more towards easy listening and pop.
Final Verdict: Dual 1 for Pat Benatar and Ann Wilson, 3 for Linda Ronstadt, and 4 for Joan Jett
After careful consideration and in an effort to honor the individual strengths of each artist, Pat Benatar and Ann Wilson emerge as the top two in terms of rock voice. Pat Benatar's classically trained voice and Ann Wilson's untrained "pure" voice, along with their ability to excel in a variety of musical styles, make them stand out. Linda Ronstadt comes in third, despite her versatility, due to her more diverse vocal styles that veer away from the strict hard-rock genre. Joan Jett remains in the fourth position, primarily due to her punk rock roots and limited vocal range.
Each of these women singers has brought unique and unforgettable contributions to the world of rock music, and it's important to celebrate their individuality and the legacies they have built. Though a comparison of voices among these remarkable artists is subjective, their impact on the genre cannot be overstated.