We have rock bands, we have metal bands, we have...male-fronted bands? March 8 is International Women's Day, and to honor the women of the rock and metal world, Loudwire explains why we should abandon the phrase "female-fronted" bands.

Looking back at rock and metal history, women have been a part of it for as long as men have. Viola Smith of The Coquettes was dubbed "America's Fastest Girl Drummer" in 1939. Sister Rosetta Tharpe is recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as being responsible for the careers of huge rock icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. Janis Joplin was one of the first musicians known to have a visible tattoo.

We not only dive into the history of women who have been influential in rock and metal, but some of the low points we have hit with the objectification of female singers. A few years ago we had lists, magazine covers and even calendars of "The Hottest Chicks in Hard Rock," which completely marketed female rock and metal singers as sex figures and caused them to be judged by their looks first, and talent after.

Things have started to change over the past few years, and for the better. For starters, we have more women being placed in executive-level positions at record labels and media companies, like Allison Hagendorf, who is the Global Head of Rock at Spotify.

Allison Hagendorf
Allison Hagendorf by Ben Patterson
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To hear why it's time to let go of the "female-fronted" phrase once and for all for the sake of rock and roll, watch the video above.

Top 50 Hard Rock + Metal Frontwomen of All Time

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