Janet Gardner: The Iconic Voice of Vixen

A Legendary Career in Glam Metal

Janet Gardner is best known as the powerful lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the all-female glam metal band Vixen, a position she held for over three decades. With her distinctive voice and captivating stage presence, Gardner has become an icon of the 80s and 90s rock scene.

Early Life and Influences

Born on March 17, 1962, in Juneau, Alaska, Gardner grew up in a musical family. Her mother, Margaret, was a piano player and church organist, and Janet began singing in school choirs and learning to play piano and guitar from a young age. Her upbringing in a family of four brothers and her parents' strong faith in the Latter-day Saint church instilled in her a strong sense of determination and independence.

Rise to Fame with Vixen

Gardner joined Vixen in 1983, when the band was still a quintet. With her powerful vocals and guitar skills, she quickly became an integral part of the group. The band's early lineup appeared in the 1984 comedy film Hardbodies, and soon after, they relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a record deal. Gardner's versatility as a singer and guitarist earned her a spot as the lead vocalist, and the band's primary lineup solidified with Jan Kuehnemund, Roxy Petrucci, and Share Ross.

Success with Vixen

Vixen signed with EMI Records in 1988 and released their self-titled debut album, which spawned the hit singles "Edge of a Broken Heart" and "Cryin'". The album was a commercial success, and the band toured extensively, sharing the stage with rock giants like Ozzy Osbourne, Bon Jovi, and Scorpions. Over the years, Gardner performed on three of Vixen's four studio albums, solidifying her status as the band's longest-serving vocalist.

A Hiatus and Solo Pursuits

After Vixen disbanded in 1992, Gardner took a hiatus from music to focus on personal endeavors. During this time, she briefly reformed Vixen with drummer Roxy Petrucci in 1997 and later pursued a career as a dental hygienist. In 2001, she returned to Vixen, and in 2004, the band reunited for a one-night-only performance on VH1's Bands Reunited TV show.

Solo Career and Return to Vixen

In 2012, Gardner rejoined Vixen full-time, but in 2017, she released her self-titled debut solo album, marking a new chapter in her career. Two years later, she decided to leave Vixen once again, this time to focus on her family and solo career.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout her career, Janet Gardner has become synonymous with Vixen, and her powerful vocals and guitar work have inspired countless rock fans. Her contributions to the glam metal scene have been immense, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of rock musicians.

Discography

• Vixen - Vixen (1988)
• Vixen - Rev It Up (1990)
• Vixen - Tangerine (1998)
• Janet Gardner - Janet Gardner (2017)

Awards and Accolades

• MTV Video Music Awards - Best New Artist (1989)
• Kerrang! Awards - Best New Band (1989)