It’s still Women’s History Month and we’re celebrating with a selection of hits from historic music legends and current rockers making history. Read on for a bit of history on each artist.
1. The Linda Lindas – “Growing Up” – The future of music! These teens made national headlines when the performance of their original “Racist, Sexist Boy” went viral. They’ve gone on to perform alongside acts like The Beths and record their debut studio LP!
2. Deep Sea Diver – “Lights Out” – Jessica Dobson is one of the coolest guitarists around and I was stoked to see her shred live earlier this year. This group is a Supe Troop favorite and I’m sure they’ll win your heart too once you hear that slick guitar solo.
3. Rupa – “Aaj Shanibar” – Rupa has amassed a cult following for her impressive vocal melodies and irresistible disco beats. Since the original Indian release of Disco Jazz in 1982, her music has resurfaced to become a cherished favorite among disco lovers and crate-diggers alike.
4. Letta Mbulu – “Nomalizo” – Letta Mbulu rose to fame as one of the most prominent singers of South Africa before leaving for the United States in 1964 due to Apartheid. She returned to her homeland in 1991 to perform at the Unity Festival Apartheid amid general rejoicing.
5. Juniore – “Ah bah d’accord” – Juniore has mastered their signature sonic cocktail of retro French pop and bouncy surf rock. I was lucky enough to witness their first Los Angeles show in 2017 and can confirm that they were as effortlessly cool in person as their music sounds.
6. Gal Costa – “Vou Recomeçar” – Gal Costa was a prominent figure in the Tropicália movement of 1960s Brazil and is regarded as one of the most important singers to come out of Brazil.
7. Quarteto em Cy – “Cavalo-Ferro” – Comprised of four singing sisters, Quarteto em Cy formed in Rio in 1959 and quickly became the most important female vocal group of the Música popular brasileira style.
8. Les Amazones d’Afrique – “Love” – This all-female collective from west Africa uses their music to campaign for gender equality and the eradication of ancestral violence. They’ve described themselves as “a creative force that embraces international voices; sweet, strong harmonies that summon the rights of women and girls; and a meltdown of heritage and new gen talent.”
9. Les Filles de Illighadad – “Jori” – This group was featured in our International Women’s Day playlist, but I couldn’t resist adding them here too! Guitarist Fatou Seidi Ghali is the first Tuareg woman to play guitar professionally. See them on tour in the US this spring!
10. Kim Jung Mi – “Haenim” – Written and recorded in 1973, “Haenim” was released amidst major political turmoil in South Korea. The lyrics speak of natural, Earthy beauty. “Birds are flying in this silent place / They are singing for me.”
