24 Best Songs Featuring Stunning Female Backing Vocals

Updated at: 13/03/2025

The magic of layered vocals, the soaring harmonies, the subtle whispers that add depth and texture—female backing vocals are a crucial element in shaping some of the most iconic songs in music history. While no single artist or band can claim sole ownership of this art, the rich tapestry of sounds woven through countless recordings highlights the power of collaborative musicianship. This list celebrates those unforgettable moments where female voices elevate already incredible tracks to an entirely new level, taking a listener on a journey through decades of musical innovation. From the raw emotionality of certain power ballads to the delicate interplay of harmonies in more upbeat numbers, we're showcasing the often-unsung heroines of the recording studio who contributed immeasurably to songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

This exploration isn't just about nostalgia; it's about rediscovering the subtle genius behind some of the most beloved tracks and recognizing the female artists whose contributions have sometimes been overlooked. Whether it's the intricate vocal arrangements that support a driving rock anthem or the ethereal harmonies that perfectly complement a melancholic melody, these songs showcase a diverse range of styles and vocal techniques that demonstrate the enduring power and versatility of the female voice in music. Prepare to be captivated by the artistry and skill showcased in this list – a testament to the lasting impact of female backing vocalists on the landscape of popular music. Dive in and rediscover (or discover for the first time) the magic of these carefully chosen songs.

  • November Rain
    1

    November Rain

    Guns N' Roses

    1991

    Use Your Illusion I

  • Take on Me
    2

    Take on Me

    a-ha

    1984

    Hunting High and Low

  • Smells Like Teen Spirit
    3

    Smells Like Teen Spirit

    Nirvana

    1991

    Nevermind (Remastered)

  • Bohemian Rhapsody
    4

    Bohemian Rhapsody

    Queen

    1975

    A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • Sweet Child O' Mine
    5

    Sweet Child O' Mine

    Guns N' Roses

    1987

    Appetite For Destruction

  • Billie Jean
    6

    Billie Jean

    Michael Jackson

    1982

    Thriller

  • Careless Whisper
    7

    Careless Whisper

    George Michael

    1984

  • Beat It
    8

    Beat It

    Michael Jackson

    1982

    Thriller

  • Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
    9

    Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

    Wham!

    1984

  • Hotel California
    10

    Hotel California

    Eagles

    1976

    Hotel California (2013 Remaster)

  • Hey Jude
    11

    Hey Jude

    The Beatles

    1968

    With The Beatles (Remastered)

  • I Want to Know What Love Is
    12

    I Want to Know What Love Is

    Foreigner

    1985

    Agent Provocateur

  • Imagine
    13

    Imagine

    John Lennon

    1971

    Imagine

  • Under the Bridge
    14

    Under the Bridge

    Red Hot Chili Peppers

    1991

    Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)

  • We Are The Champions
    15

    We Are The Champions

    Queen

    1977

    News Of The World (2011 Remaster)

  • Purple Rain
    16

    Purple Rain

    Prince

    1984

    Purple Rain

  • Material Girl
    17

    Material Girl

    Madonna

    1984

    True Blue

  • Let It Be
    18

    Let It Be

    The Beatles

    1970

    Let It Be (Remastered)

  • Stairway to Heaven
    19

    Stairway to Heaven

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • Like a Virgin
    20

    Like a Virgin

    Madonna

    1985

    Like a Virgin

  • When Doves Cry
    21

    When Doves Cry

    Prince

    1984

  • Somebody to Love
    22

    Somebody to Love

    Queen,George Michael

    1976

    Older

  • Under Pressure
    23

    Under Pressure

    David Bowie,Queen

    1981

    Hot Space (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • Black
    24

    Black

    Pearl Jam

    1991

    Ten