Maggie Rogers, a singer-songwriter known for her viral discovery by Pharrell and her spiritual exploration in music, shares her transformative journey through Harvard Divinity School. Kathleen Hanna, co-founder of the Riot Grrrl movement and author of 'Rebel Girl,' discusses the punk scene's impact on feminism. Together, they explore the therapeutic nature of songwriting, the legacy of powerful anthems, and the empowering experiences in all-female spaces. Delve into their candid conversations about authenticity, creativity, and the evolution of their powerful voices in music.
Maggie Rogers' transformative break from music to study spirituality at Harvard allowed her to redefine her artistic responsibility and approach.
Kathleen Hanna's evolution from expressing raw anger in music to a joyful celebration of diverse emotions highlights her growth as a feminist artist.
Deep dives
Maggie Rogers' Journey Through Music and Education
Maggie Rogers took a significant break from her music career to pursue a master's degree at Harvard Divinity School in 2021. This period of introspection allowed her to explore the relationship between spirituality, ethics, and the entertainment industry. She aimed to create a more sustainable life as a touring musician while understanding her responsibility to address deeper societal issues through her art. Rogers describes music as a sacred space, connecting her experiences in public gatherings to the challenges faced within pop culture.
The Role of Persona in Songwriting
In her latest album, Maggie Rogers uses a fictional persona to convey a variety of experiences instead of strictly autobiographical material. This technique allows her to explore multiple narratives and emotions while alleviating the pressure of needing to be precise with personal details. She likens the process to weaving a tapestry of memories from her twenties while crafting scenes akin to those in a movie. By embracing a character, she feels liberated to delve into the emotional truths behind the fiction, creating a richer storytelling experience.
Kathleen Hanna and the Birth of Riot Grrrl
Kathleen Hanna emerged as a pivotal figure in the feminist punk movement, particularly as the frontwoman of Bikini Kill in the 1990s. She played a crucial role in challenging gender norms within the punk scene, using her platform to advocate for female empowerment and confront issues such as sexism and sexual violence. Through her music and community-driven initiatives, Hanna fostered a culture for young women to express themselves creatively. Her work not only reshaped punk music but also laid the groundwork for future generations of female artists.
The Emotional Landscape of Live Performance
Kathleen Hanna reflects on the emotional nuances of live performances, noting a shift from raw anger to a more joyous expression in recent shows. This evolution allows her to vocalize a spectrum of feelings, including sadness, joy, and rage, connecting with both herself and her audience. As she reclaims iconic songs like 'Rebel Girl', she feels empowered to cast the lyrics in a personal light, celebrating her journey as an artist. This renewed approach creates a rich and dynamic experience that resonates with fans who share in the collective empowerment.
In 2021, burnt out from the intensity of her early career, Maggie Rogers considered quitting music entirely. Instead, she took a detour — to Harvard Divinity School, where she earned a master's degree in religion and public life. Her 2024 album is Don't Forget Me.
Kathleen Hanna's band Bikini Kill was the epicenter of the riot grrrl feminist punk movement of the '90s. Their song "Rebel Girl" was the anthem. Her memoir this year was about her time in the punk scene, her childhood, and finding joy in expressing anger in public.