Top 10 Emerging Female Artists 2026

While fall may be full of spooky, scary skeletons and black cats, it is also the signal of the long year winding down. 2025 has come and gone in a flash, and brought with it many changes – and the music world is no exception. Funktasy is looking back at this year’s emerging female artists and their contributions to the music world. From Hollywood nepo baby turned rockstar to English popstar, we have put together a review of the top female artists you need to look out for in 2026. What can we say? We love to turn you on (to the latest tunes).  

Grace McKagan – Alternative/ Pop – L.A., CA

Nepo baby turned pop princess Grace McKagan begins our Top 10 Emerging Female Artists after the release of her latest single, “Lucy.” The daughter of rock n’ roll legend Duff McKagan, known best for his work as bassist for Guns N’ Roses, has branched out with her own music career and over the last five years has released four albums and a handful of singles. Though it is easy to write McKagan off as just another nepo baby with a less-than-authentic start in the industry, she has proven herself to be quite a force in the pop scene and has no indication of slowing down. “Lucy” brings a touch of edge and depth as a possible tribute to Lucy-Bleu, the late stepdaughter of guitarist Slash.

The Pistols – Rock/Alternative/ Punk – L.A., CA

This female-led rock group is a blast from the past with classic rock and hair metal influences. Although they have fewer than 1000 listeners on Spotify, this band shows real potential to make a name for themselves within the modern-day rock scene after they tighten up around the edges. Their song ‘Sweet Obsession’ perfectly captures the emotion of an ’80s ballad with a modern twist, and for that, it belongs on Funktasy’s Top 10 Emerging Female Artists list for 2025.

Starcrawler – Rock – L.A., CA

No list of emerging female artists would be complete without a nod to ​​Starcrawler. This rock group is a legend in the making and is nothing short of iconic. Having captured the rock world by storm with their cover of The Ramones’ “Pet Semetary,” Starcrawler has proven to be much more than just a great cover band (looking at you, Joe Crocker). If you’re feeling bent out of shape about the state of modern rock, give “Roadkill” a listen. The classic proto-punk influences blend beautifully with a modern style and are sure to stick with you long after the final note. 

Maude Latour – Indi/Pop – New York City, NY

A fan favourite, Maude Latour, has also made the Top 10 Emerging Female Artists. Finally, an artist on this list from the East Coast brings a refreshing and intense vibe to the pop scene. This pop princess writes about love and friendship, loss and grief, and the female experience. Her music, above all else, is a fun and danceable listen that should find its home in your speakers.

Thunderpussy – Rock – Seattle, WA

Finally, a break from the LA bands! While most rock fans associate Seattle with the ’90s grunge scene, Thunderpussy has brought it back, and for that, we must give them proper dues and put them at the coveted #6 spot on our Top 10 Emerging Female Artists list. Thunderpussy reminds us not to judge a book by its cover, with its crass name and moody location, because this band performs in go-go boots and bright ’60s colours. This band is heavily inspired by the classic rock of the 70s and should find its home on your playlist just as they have ours.

The Linda Lindas – Punk/Alternative – L.A., CA

This list would be laughable without acknowledging the band currently shaking up the modern rock scene. Though I believe that the Linda Lindas are at their most powerful during the Christmas season with their rendition of ‘Groovy Xmas’ (total Kinks vibes), this band is amazing year-round. The Linda Lindas were first put in the spotlight for their cover of “Rebel Girl” for the Moxie film soundtrack and have been holding on since. The Linda Lindas have made appearances not only at music festivals such as Boston Calling, but have also found themselves the guest stars on The Daily Show last October.

Laufey – Indie/Pop – Reykjavik, Iceland

Thunderpussy is not the only band on this list taking us away from LA and NYC, as Laufey brings an international flavour to our Top 10 Emerging Female Artist List. Hailing all the way from Reykjavík, Laufey is sure to hit you where it hurts with her songs, chock-full of emotional turmoil. This young indie pop artist brings a refreshing sound that is far from the modern cheering or overly depressing vibes we have grown comfortable with in the 2020s. With songs like “Lover Girl,” Laufey catches your attention with new and catchy tunes. Listen for yourself down below.

Destroy Boys – Punk/Rock/Alternative – Sacramento, CA

Another up-and-coming band you need to know is Destroy Boys. Destroy Boys is heavily reminiscent, but not at all an imitation of, female-led grunge bands of the ’90s. Seeking influence from that of Veruca Salt and Babes In Toyland, Destroy Boys have a raw edge and a powerful feminist message anyone can get behind. Maybe a little more nitty-gritty than most modern bands, Destroy Boys revive a part of rock that has long since disappeared after the death of Cobain and the bastardization of Love.

Alessi Rose – Indie – Derby, UK

Alessi Rose is set to become the next face of the indie scene with her heartbreaking, soul-crushing, emotionally devastating breakup songs. Rose captures the pain of the toxic situationships frequenting the dating scenes in the wake of dating apps and social media. Her music is perfect for those experiencing a loss or having moments of doubt. However, she is not only a must for the breakup playlist but a voice of female empowerment and inner strength in the face of destruction. “Same Mouth” is bound to be in everyone’s headphones before the year comes to an end.

The Marías – Indie/Pop – L.A., CA

Coming up next on our list, we have The Marías. If they are going to be on this list for one thing, it is for their versatility. This indie pop band has a song for every situation, whether it be a party or a breakup. The Marías blend of pop, indie, and alternative to create an incredibly refreshing sound. 

Just The Beginning

For many of the artists above, 2025 was just the beginning. As streaming has changed the game for new artists and how they grow, Funktasy is excited to see the different paths these musicians take. We expect to see great things from each one, regardless of where they have ranked on this list.