alternative
20 women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making alternative. start at whatever level you're standing on.
the whole alternative guide: what it is, where to start, everyone making it →
level 1 · mainstream
the pop everyone knows
level 2 · the door
big names with a sharper edge
level 3 · one step out
cult favorites and indie darlings
level 4 · further
art pop, hyperpop, and the underground
✦ make the alternative girls a playlist
turn these 20 artists into something you can press play on.
✧ no level 5 artists in alternative. levels are about sound, and alternative doesn't often go all the way out. for the deep end, try witch house, hexd or glitch pop. or tell us a level 5 alternative girl you love ✦
✦ nearby genres
questions
Who are some women making alternative?
The Cranberries, bôa, Paramore, PJ Harvey, Björk, and Evanescence are a few. musicisforgirls.com/genres/alternative/girls lists 20, sorted from mainstream to underground.
Who are some underground women making alternative?
Further out, try bôa, PJ Harvey, Björk, and Imogen Heap.
Where should I start with alternative?
Start with The Cranberries, Evanescence, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, then work your way out a level at a time.
where does your own listening sit? map your taste ✦
artists from musicbrainz and last.fm, updated 2026-10-20
✦ know a level 5 alternative girl?
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