Seven Leading Ladies Of House
Though female singers and producers in house music rarely get their due, there’s no shortage of talented women out there making their mark on what is often described as a patriarchal field.
From Donna Summer, our very first leading lady, to Barbara Tucker, who will be hosting the main stage for us this year, countless women have helped make dance music what it is today - something which written history sometimes fails to remind us.
Here at 51st State, we’re taking the time to celebrate some of the tunes that house music’s leading ladies have created for the world...
Donna Summer - I Feel Love (1977)
‘I Feel Love’ has just turned 40 years old (can you believe it?), yet it sounds as fresh now as it did on its first spin. The first record of its kind, Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder created a track that kickstarted house music’s incredible rise to international popularity.
Crystal Waters - Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless) (1991)
Crystal Waters has provided some vocals to some of the greatest house tracks of all time - but it’s ‘Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless)’ that remains her finest work.
Robin S - Show Me Love (1993)
Robin S is responsible for one of the most instantly-recognisable, iconic house music tracks of the last twenty-five years.
Barbara Tucker - Beautiful People (1994)
This classic from Brooklyn’s #1 dancefloor diva is instant happiness in a song! Barbara’s hosting the main stage at this year’s 51st State Festival, so be sure to look out for her classic hits on the 5th August.
Ultra Nate - Free (1997)
While the original radio edit of Ultra Nate’s iconic hit ‘Free’ is pretty amazing, it’s the extended vocal mix that takes this track to another place entirely. Be sure to catch Ultra Nate at this year’s 51st State Festival!
Kings of Tomorrow - Finally (feat. Julie McKnight) (2000)
One of the absolute club classics of all time, ‘Finally’ is elevated by the incredible vocals of Julie McKnight. It’s a staple that’s still spun every year at raves and festivals around the world.
Anane Vega at Boiler Room NYC (2016)
Anane Vega is always a treat live - and her Boiler Room set from 2016 is no exception. Take a sneak peek at the type of thing to expect from Anane’s set at this year’s 51st State Festival.
