There’s a lot of talk about angry young men. But, there’s also angry young women, and they are full of wisdom.
When I’m feeling down about the right wing attack on women, and Roe, I find solace in this song — which is performed in this video by the original line-up of Four Non-Blondes fronted by Linda Perry:
I first met Linda Perry in 1989 I think, shortly after I moved to San Franciso, after I had discovered the place I hung out five nights week during law school — the Paradise Lounge in San Francisco. I quickly made friends with door man and the waitresses, and spent night after night soaking up the sweet sounds of the late 80s/early 90s SF music scene between shooting pool games. One night a very nice waitress who can best be described as having “elven beauty” and practically shaved platinum hair told me her girlfriend’s band was playing that night. I forget who she dated in the band, but it wasn’t the lead singer.
The performance wasn’t even on one of the three stages in the club. They set up in the corner of the pool room. But, the lead singer, Linda Perry, stood out. Her band was notable as not only an “all girl band,” but because it was an unashamedly lesbian band. And Linda Perry had star power that was undeniable, even to a straight guy from Oregon, the second she launched into what would be the song which is now synonomous with her and her band Four Non Blondes. That song hit the heart. It was universal, sad, empowering, and inspiring all at once. The first time I heard this song, I was blown away by her performance. I immediately bought a copy of their cassette/demo tape. I knew she’d make it big.
Lot of good bands in SF in that period. Few did make it big. But many were really really talented.
Four Non-Blondes might seem like a one hit wonder, but Linda Perry has had a monster of a career and is in a happy marriage to a cool actress.
I hope you enjoyed the video. Especially, if you’re a young ‘un who is not familiar with the music of my youth. Please post your own music in the comments that helps you cope with the challenges of the present age.