Riot Grrrl: How Girls Used Punk to Fight for their Place in Rock Music

At Loog, we believe that music is more than just playing an instrument—it’s about expression, creativity, and making the world more musical, one kid at a time. That’s why we love sharing stories about music history that inspire kids to pick up an instrument and express themselves. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day (and Women's History Month), it is important to recognize the absolutely essential contributions that women have made to the world of music. And today, we're talking about the Riot Grrrl Movement.

What Was Riot Grrrl?

Historically, rock was always pretty much a boys’ club. Girls who loved music were often ignored, mistreated at concerts, and not taken seriously as musicians. Even bands like The Runaways, (considered pioneers today) were heckled at their own shows just for daring to take up space in rock.

Over time, young women grew tired of this. They grabbed their guitars, bass, drums, and microphones and created their own revolution. Soon, bands like Bikini Kill, L7, and Sleater-Kinney became the new face of punk, shouting about real issues that girls faced every day. And it wasn’t just about the music—they built an entire community. These bands created fanzines filled with art, stories, and messages that encouraged girls to be themselves, speak up, and stand tall.

 

@loogguitars Wanna know how girls started a punk revolution in the 90s? ❤️‍🔥 The “Riot Grrrl” movement changed rock history forever, and we believe it’s super important to encourage and inspire young girls to pick up an instrument and express themselves through music. #womenshistorymonth #riotgrrrl #punkrock #punk #bikinikill #kathleenhanna ♬ original sound - Loog Guitars

 

The Riot Grrrl movement helped girls realize that their voices matter. It changed rock history forever, and now, millions of girls play instruments, form bands, and stand up for themselves in music and beyond. At Loog, we celebrate all kids who want to explore music, whether they dream of starting a band or just playing for fun.

Want to hear some of the empowering anthems these girls created? Check out our (kid-friendly) Riot Grrrl Playlist and listen to the revolution!