SATURDAY, NOV. 2
There are many reasons to pick up a copy of the book, “Women Who Rock: Bessie to Beyonce, Girl Groups to Riot Grrrl,” a 400-page collection of biographies featuring more than 100 profiles about influential female musicians. It’s a comprehensive history, beautifully written by female writers and journalists that detail the lives of women who’ve made their mark in music history, with all their struggles and triumphs. It’s also the most thorough and up-to-date collection of female music profiles in the last 20 years.
Another reason? Author and editor of the volume, Evelyn McDonnell will be at bookstore Page Against the Machine, beginning at 4 p.m., to talk about the work and, of course, sign your copy. Hear about the process and journey behind creating the anthology, selecting the 103 singers and musicians—most of whom you know and love, but also some you may never have heard of—and hear live readings of selected passages from several of the contributors to the book.
Writer and former professor of Pan-African Studies at Cal State Los Angeles, Lynnée Denise, will read her profile on Bjork. Music journalist, Lucretia Tye Jasmine, will share her piece on the GTO’s, an all-girl experimental rock group from the 1970s and hear a music performance from musician and writer Solvej Schou, who will perform a few songs by music icon Patti Smith to accompany the reading of her excerpt.
Another great thing: DJ DateNite (Jessica Fennelly) will be spinning a setlist of “Women who Rock” inspired tunes to complete the occasion.
Giving us a moment’s pause: This is a non-exclusive event, so dudes, no need to excuse yourself from this one.
Women Who Rock book signing will run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Page Against the Machine; 2714 E 4th St. The event is totally free and welcome to all.