The early and mid-1990s was a time of independent, young female artists expressing a new voice and freedom.

Now, in an era of Hilary Duff and Ashlee Simpson, times and music has changed.

"That (the '90s) was a breakout time for women that was special and different," Liz Phair said. "Now, if you're soft and sweet you can do well. We've kind of lost that sense of a strong, outspoken woman."

Let's take a look at some of the main female artists, other than Phair, who played a role in changing women's music about a decade ago.

Ani DiFranco: Still going strong. DiFranco is the role model for independent artists, male or females. She controls her own artistic and financial destiny and still speaks her mind.

Courtney Love: Her life has turned into a train wreck. Her husband, Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, committed suicide just before Love released an album with the band Hole. A couple of hit CDs weren't enough to prevent Love from drug and personal problems.

Alanis Morissette: The commercial queen of angry women rockers who had a string of best-selling albums in the '90s. Morissette's career cooled off when her music became deeper and spiritual.

Sarah McLachlan: Brought intellect and passion to give music a deeper meaning. McLachlan remains a dynamic force in music. She founded the Lilith Fair festival, which introduced women artists of all ages to a new generation.

Tori Amos: Alternative music favorite with a quirky, creative style. Still making and selling CDs.

Paula Cole: Had a smash single with "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone," but has all but disappeared since then.

Jewel: Pieces of You, was landmark LP debut in 1994, but Jewel now is now known for her acting as well as singing.