Look, I'm not about to bash Miley Cyrus — I will, in fact defend "See You Again" as a more-than-solid pop song. (And by "defend," I mean "gleefully karaoke it after two glasses of wine last Friday.") But I will support any endeavor to let budding female musicians know that they can — nay, should — rock far beyond Disney princesses. Allison Iraheta's awesome Janis Joplin-singing on this season of Idol was a nice start, and we salute the reemergence of Gwen Stefani: The "Just a Girl" Edition on tour with No Doubt this summer, eschewing her glam-queen rapping about clothing lines and bananas for wifebeater-wearing and empowerment anthems. Even better? Jessica Hopper's The Girls' Guide to Rocking, which helps budding Blondies, Cyndi Laupers, and Joan Jetts learn how to start bands, write songs, choose instruments, and book gigs. Not only is it chock full of practical advice, it also gives us occasion to watch Hopper's nifty little indie infomercials, like this one featuring Monika Bukowska of Brilliant Pebbles, Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene, and Heart Shaped Hate:
The Girls' Guide to Rocking // Adventure from Alan Del Rio Ortiz on Vimeo.
What do you think, PopWatchers? Do girls need help rocking? Who are your favorite female rock role models of all time?
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My favorite female rockers who totally kick butt include: Debbie Harry, Ann and Nancy Wilson, Grace Slick, and Pat Benatar.
Where would Gwen be without Deborah Harry, Pat Benatar, and of course, Joan Jett?
Pet Benatar and Joan Jett
miley rocks the world. she has raised the bar higher than ever.
Chrissie Hynde!!!!!!!!!!
No one will EVER compare to Debbie Harry. She was and is hands down, the best female singer ever (and the most beautiful by far).
I bought this book for my daughter last month and it’s hands down the best present I have ever given her. She loves it. Just help her put together the soundproofing panels from the book so she can practice in her room.
DEBBIE HARRY is the ONE….an original artist..