Female-fronted tribute bands are redefining the music scene, honoring legendary pop, rock and metal acts while often breaking stereotypes in male-dominated genres. These bands combine musical precision, theatrical performances, and unique energy to deliver unforgettable live shows. Here’s a quick look at some of the most notable acts:
- The Iron Maidens: All-female Iron Maiden tribute band known for intricate performances and global acclaim.
- LOVER: The Taylor Swift “Eras” Tour tribute show.
- Judas Priestess: Tribute to Judas Priest, praised by original members for their electrifying energy.
- LINGER – A tribute to the Cranberries
- Live From Earth: Tribute to Pat Benatar, fronted by the amazing Jill Marie Burke.
- Zepparella: Female-led homage to Led Zeppelin, blending technical skill with raw passion.
- Tribute to Tina Turner by Debby Holliday
- Hell’s Belles: AC/DC tribute band lauded for their high-energy shows and authentic stage presence.
- Priss: Kiss tribute band bringing the iconic makeup and theatrical flair to life.
These bands are not just imitators – they bring their own energy while staying true to the originals’ spirit. Whether you’re a casual fan or a hardcore enthusiast, these acts prove that rock and metal transcend gender.
The Iron Maidens
1. The Iron Maidens
The Iron Maidens, formed in 2001 in Los Angeles, are among the first and most prominent all-female tribute bands in heavy metal. Their performances have gained attention worldwide thanks to their dedication to recreating the spirit of Iron Maiden’s music and shows.
Known for their elaborate stage setups, they bring Iron Maiden’s theatrical style to life, complete with the iconic mascot Eddie and other visual elements. This attention to detail has helped them build a loyal fanbase across the globe.
Each band member brings a strong musical background, allowing them to perform Iron Maiden’s intricate compositions with impressive skill. Their setlist features both popular tracks and lesser-known songs, making their shows enjoyable for casual fans and hardcore enthusiasts alike.
The Iron Maidens have received numerous awards, including Best Tribute Band and individual accolades from Rock City News, LA Music Awards, and All Access Magazine.
Their influence has encouraged more women to enter the heavy metal scene, showing that talent and passion matter more than stereotypes.
Still actively touring, The Iron Maidens perform at events of all sizes. Their success has paved the way for other female-led tribute bands, such as Judas Priestess, who bring their own energy to the genre.
2. LOVER – The Taylor Swift Tribute
Of course, just because a tribute band has females in the lineup, that doesn’t mean the band to which they are paying tribute must consist of only males! And the Taylor Swift tribute LOVER is an obvious case-in-point.
LOVER is fronted by experienced Dallas-based songstress, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Charity Eden, and — keeping it real — it’s a leetle beet hard for this reporter to see any difference vs. “the real thing”.
Taylor Swift is undeniably a phenomenally talented songwriter, producer, and promoter. However, when it comes to delivering a captivating stage show, Charity Eden and her tribute band, LOVER, truly shine. Despite the naturally modest production budget of LOVER compared to Taylor’s iconic Eras tour, Charity’s extraordinary performance and vocal prowess leave audiences thinking, “Wow, that was the next best thing to the real deal!”
If your audience is looking for a female-fronted tribute band but with a more modern and danceable vibe, you couldn’t do better than booking LOVER, the Taylor Swift “Eras” tour tribute.
3. Judas Priestess
Judas Priestess, formed in 2009 in New York City, stands out as the only all-female tribute band to Judas Priest. Decked out in leather-studded outfits and delivering electrifying stage performances, they channel the raw power of the legendary metal band.
Their talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by the original members of Judas Priest. Former guitarist K.K. Downing referred to them as “Metal’s top female tribute”, while frontman Rob Halford has personally praised their performances.
What sets Judas Priestess apart is their ability to bring heavy metal to unexpected places. They’ve performed for commuters in New York’s Penn Station during rush hour and are regulars at major biker events. They’ve also opened for established metal acts across North America, proving their place in the broader metal scene.
The band’s performances are a mix of technical skill and fiery energy, offering powerful renditions of Judas Priest’s iconic tracks. Their all-female lineup brings a fresh angle to these classics, earning respect from fans and even the original band members. By thriving in a genre often dominated by men, Judas Priestess challenges outdated ideas about who can succeed in heavy metal.
With a growing international fanbase, Judas Priestess regularly tours across the United States and Canada. For anyone looking to book a high-energy, authentic metal tribute act, their blend of musical talent and theatrical flair makes them a standout choice.
Female-fronted tribute bands like Judas Priestess continue to shake up the music scene, proving that heavy metal knows no boundaries.
4. LINGER – Tribute to the Cranberries
LINGER is America’s only tribute to The Cranberries, featuring female vocalist Mary Kate McNally, who delivers a remarkably authentic interpretation of Dolores O’Riordan’s distinctive voice.
Founded in 2022 and based in Denver, Colorado, the five-piece band performs approximately 15 shows annually, bringing beloved hits like “Zombie,” “Dreams,” and “Salvation” to audiences nationwide.
The band has already made impressive strides, performing at notable venues including Seattle’s legendary El Corazon, and extending their reach from Arizona to Rhode Island.
LINGER was inspired to form following the tragic passing of Dolores O’Riordan in 2018, and they’ve since received emotional praise from original Cranberries fans who never thought they’d hear these songs performed live again.
5. Live From Earth – Pat Benatar Tribute Act
Live From Earth is Los Angeles’ premier Pat Benatar tribute band, fronted by powerhouse vocalist Jill Marie Burke who also stars as “Pat” in the famous LEGENDS IN CONCERT shows in Las Vegas and Branson.
Founded in 2014, this talented ensemble delivers Pat Benatar’s greatest hits including “Heartbreaker,” “Love Is A Battlefield,” and “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” plus other classic rock favorites from artists like Heart, Queen, and Led Zeppelin.
The band features seasoned professionals, including Tim Kleiman on guitar, Rick Zaccaro on bass, Trevor Thornton on drums, and Tuzy Ellis on keyboards, each bringing decades of professional experience to the stage.
Jill Marie Burke brings both vocal excellence and authenticity to her portrayal of Pat Benatar, drawing from her extensive performance background that includes roles with Disney, cruise lines, and even the “Priceline Negotiator” jingle.
6. Zepparella
Zepparella is a standout in the world of tribute bands, bringing a female-led perspective to the iconic music of Led Zeppelin. The band consists of incredibly talented musicians who skillfully recreate the legendary sound of the original group.
Their shows are a mix of technical expertise and high-energy performances, earning them recognition at top venues across the U.S. Audiences are captivated by their ability to stay true to Led Zeppelin’s legacy while infusing their own passion into every performance. They meticulously replicate the intricate arrangements of the original songs, all while channeling the raw, unfiltered energy that defined Led Zeppelin’s spirit.
Zepparella is reshaping the tribute band scene, demonstrating that women can bring just as much power and artistry to classic rock. Their influence inspires others to rethink traditional ideas about rock music. For event organizers, Zepparella offers a mix of dedication and a fresh perspective, making them a popular choice for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale productions.
Their success has opened doors for other female-fronted bands, like Hell’s Belles, who bring their own electrifying style to the stage. Zepparella’s journey proves that music knows no boundaries and continues to inspire the next wave of performers.
7. The Tina Turner Tribute by Debby Holiday
Debby Holiday’s Tina Turner Tribute brings together 10 of the world’s top touring musicians to deliver Tina Turner’s music with extraordinary power and authenticity, featuring Holiday’s own fiery vocal style rather than attempting mere impersonation.
Based in Los Angeles and founded in 2019, this premium tribute features an all-star lineup including Sean McNabb (Dokken, Quiet Riot) on bass, Derek Day (who’s performed with Slash and Foo Fighters) on guitar, and veteran musicians Sven Martin on keyboards and Forrest Everett on drums.
Holiday herself brings impressive credentials to the project, with 17 Billboard Dance chart hits and a career that includes performances alongside Rod Stewart, KISS, Joe Walsh, and appearances on David Letterman and The View.
The band performs all of Tina’s classics from the 1960s through her 2009 Wembley shows, earning rave reviews including Billboard Magazine’s assessment of Holiday’s “fiery voice that straddles the rock/soul fence” and Leslie Jordan’s warning to “find something to hold on to” when she hits the stage.
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8. Hell’s Belles
Hell’s Belles, formed in Seattle in 2000, has become a standout all-female AC/DC tribute band, performing across the United States and even Japan. Their high-energy shows and dedication to recreating the AC/DC experience have earned them a loyal following and international acclaim.
Frontwoman Mandy Reed-Leinenweber and guitarist Adrian ‘Angus’ Conner are at the heart of the band’s success. They channel AC/DC’s signature sound and stage energy with incredible precision. Beyond the music, their performances include spot-on costumes and stage presence that mirror the legendary rock band’s unforgettable style.
Even Angus Young of AC/DC himself once praised them as “the best AC/DC band he ever heard”. That kind of endorsement highlights their ability to capture the essence of the original band while bringing their own energy to the stage.
Hell’s Belles proves that rock music knows no gender limits. For anyone looking to experience the spirit of AC/DC with a fresh twist, this band delivers a show that’s both a tribute and a celebration of rock’s untamed energy.
Next up, another act making waves in the tribute scene – Priss, an all-female tribute to KISS.
9. Priss
Priss is an all-female tribute band honoring the legendary Kiss, bringing a new twist while staying true to the theatrical flair that made the original band unforgettable. With Kiss’s iconic makeup and costumes, their performances transport fans back to the band’s golden years, delivering more than just a tribute – they bring the Kiss experience to life.
Their reputation is further enhanced by collaborations with Kiss members, including appearances alongside Bruce and Bob Kulick. Priss has also been featured on Gene Simmons Family Jewels and performed on the renowned Kiss Cruise, cementing their place within the Kiss fan community.
By reinterpreting Kiss’s music, Priss has gained a loyal fanbase that spans both longtime Kiss enthusiasts and newer audiences. Their international tours have helped break barriers in the tribute band scene, promoting diversity and challenging outdated norms in rock music.
Priss, along with acts like The Iron Maidens and Judas Priestess, is changing the landscape for classic rock tribute bands. Their growing popularity highlights the increasing demand for female-led acts, making them a top choice for event planners looking to deliver a standout performance.
Booking and Event Planning
Booking female-fronted tribute bands has become simpler thanks to dedicated platforms like ProTributeBands.com. These platforms connect event planners with well-known acts such as The Iron Maidens, Judas Priestess, and Zepparella, ensuring professional performances every time.
These services use strict pre-screening processes to guarantee dependable and high-quality performances. This is especially important when booking well-established tribute bands that have made a name for themselves in the industry.
The cost of hiring female-fronted tribute bands generally falls between $10K and up, depending on factors like the length of the performance, the number of band members, travel needs, and technical requirements. Clear communication is key to smooth event planning. Discuss everything upfront, from technical needs to performance schedules, to avoid last-minute surprises.
Booking these bands for international events has also become more straightforward, making it easier to bring top talent to global audiences. To ensure everything runs smoothly, book as early as possible and finalize all arrangements in a formal contract.
The WrapUp on Female Tribute Bands
Female-fronted tribute bands are making waves in the music world by honoring legendary acts while often breaking down gender stereotypes in rock and metal. These skilled performers deliver unforgettable shows that resonate with audiences and showcase their impressive talent.
Support from original artists underscores the high caliber of these tribute bands and highlights their growing importance within the music community. Their achievements challenge outdated perceptions and encourage a more inclusive industry.
With accolades and in some cases international tours under their belts, these bands are gaining worldwide recognition. Their success not only secures their place in the music scene but also inspires upcoming generations of female artists. Time and again, their performances prove that musical talent transcends gender.
