Legendary member of Bikini Kill and the Casual Dots, Kathi Wilcox, discusses all things punk: understanding the Butthole Surfers, finding zines in the library, changing reactions to Bikini Kill, importance of being ernest in Olympia and D.C., resisting the role of CEO of Riot Grrrl Inc., blending music genres and scenes, influence of riot girl movement on music and kids, working with Jon Jet and the Runaways, and the career of an independent musician. They also touch on the Indonesian punk and hardcore scene and its importance in promoting human rights.
Kathi Wilcox reflects on her initial exposure to punk and the challenges of discovering new music in a small town.
Wilcox emphasizes the importance of making music accessible and the liberating aspect of punk's DIY ethos.
Wilcox discusses the misunderstood impact of Bikini Kill's involvement in the Riot Grrrl movement and the challenges of being associated with it.
Deep dives
Early Experiences with Punk
Kathy Wilcox reflects on her initial exposure to punk, mentioning her brother's influence and exposure to bands like Butthole Surfers and Beat Happening. She discusses her gradual interest in punk music and the challenges of discovering new music in a small town.
Writing Fanzines and the DIY Scene
Kathy Wilcox talks about her early experiences with fanzines, including her interactions with Rebecca Gates from The Spinanes through 'Parker's Bark.' She describes the DIY culture in Olympia, Washington, and the support and camaraderie among bands and artists. She emphasizes the importance of making music accessible and the liberating aspect of punk's do-it-yourself ethos.
Navigating the Major Label Debate
Kathy Wilcox shares her perspective on the major label debate within punk rock. She acknowledges the anti-major label sentiment prevalent at the time, but criticizes the judgment and rigid categorization of bands based on their label affiliations. She highlights that each band had its own reasons for making decisions regarding their music and that it should be respected.
Bikini Kill's Impact and the Evolution of the Riot Grrrl Movement
Kathy Wilcox discusses how Bikini Kill's impact and involvement in the Riot Grrrl movement were sometimes misunderstood or misrepresented. She explains that while the band supported Riot Grrrl, they were not directly involved in every local group. Kathy also mentions the challenges of being associated with Riot Grrrl, facing misconceptions, and receiving criticism from people who conflated individual actions with the band as a whole.
The influence and accessibility of punk through the Bikini Kill band
The podcast episode discusses the influence of punk music, particularly focusing on the band Bikini Kill. It highlights how their music served as an accessible gateway for younger listeners to explore feminist ideas and ideologies within the punk genre. The guest explains the early period of Bikini Kill, where their sound was characterized by grungy and dirgy elements, influenced by bands like the Melvins and Nirvana. They also discuss the significance of Bikini Kill's collaboration with Joan Jett and the recording process for their single. Throughout the conversation, the podcast explores the diverse genres within punk music and the impact of independent labels, emphasizing the importance of actively participating in creating one's own punk culture.
The significance of Bikini Kill's music and the influence of punk in the 90s
The podcast episode delves into the significance of Bikini Kill's music and the impact of punk in the 90s era. It highlights the accessibility and influence of punk music, allowing young listeners to connect with ideas of feminism through Bikini Kill's sound. The guest shares anecdotes about their early period as a band, experimenting with different styles before settling into their well-known sound. The episode also touches on their collaboration with Joan Jett and the recording process, shedding light on the band's journey within the punk scene. The podcast concludes by encouraging listeners to actively participate and contribute to the punk scene, whether through starting a band or creating their own culture.
Episode 457:
Nevermind the punks on Quincy, Kathi Wilcox is here! Listen in as Damian sits down with the legendary member of Bikini Kill and the Casual Dots, to discuss all things punk! From trying to understand the Butthole Surfers, to finding zines in the library, to the changing reactions to Bikini Kill, to the importance of being ernest in Olympia and D.C., to resisting the role of CEO of Riot Grrrl Inc. and so much more: This is not to be missed!
Also, check out the fantastic self-titled by The Casual Dots! Available everywhere now, or find it HERE