The hard-won success of their predecessors enables stars like Shania Twain, Macy Gray and Sarah McLachlan to overcome obstacles and reach new heights. We get a glimpse of the new generation: Taylor Swift, St. Vincent, Syd, Billie Eilish, Yola and more.

Pat Benatar, Sheila E., Natalie Merchant, and more rocked the ‘80s. As questions of authenticity, control, and feminism arose in the ‘90s, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, Courtney Love, Tori Amos, and Alanis Morissette made music on their own terms.

The '70s brought new sounds and icons like Nancy Wilson (Heart) and Joan Jett. Bang heads with hard rockers like Wilson and Debbie Harry, connect with singer-songwriters like Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, Carole King, and more.

Dig into the turbulent roots of rock n’ roll in the 1950s and 60s with Mavis Staples, Janis Joplin, Chaka Kahn and more. With supporting commentary from Norah Jones, Tina Weymouth, Rickie Lee Jones, Kate Pierson, Merry Clayton and others.