Meta Description: Discover how The Linda Lindas are reviving the riot grrrl spirit with their contemporary punk energy. Learn about their influences, essential albums, and impactful songs like “Racist, Sexist Boy.”
The Linda Lindas: Reviving Riot Grrrl Spirit with Contemporary Punk Energy
Keyword: The Linda Lindas
Despite forming in 2018, The Linda Lindas have quickly made a name for themselves. With performances alongside iconic acts like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, they’ve repurposed the fiery spirit of the 1990s riot grrrl movement with a fresh, contemporary punk energy. According to Sleater-Kinney’s Carrie Brownstein, The Linda Lindas are “unapologetic,” suggesting they’ll withstand the test of time.
The Rise of The Linda Lindas
Comprising Bela Salazar, Lucia de la Garza, Eloise Wong, and Mila de la Garza, The Linda Lindas gained widespread attention in May 2021 when a video of their performance of the anti-racism song “Racist, Sexist Boy” went viral. “The song was to fight back against the racist, sexist boys, but we didn’t want to be the racist, sexist boys, so we changed the words,” Wong explained, highlighting how the song stemmed from a harrowing school experience.
Influences and Attitudes
The Linda Lindas’ confidence in tackling tough subjects emphasizes the importance of contemporary punk-leaning music. They reject the notion that good music is a thing of the past. “We just say whatever we feel like saying in our songs, and sometimes that happens to align with messages of feminism,” Lucia once said.
The Linda Lindas’ Essential Albums
Their influences are diverse, and they often speak about the bands that motivate them. During a discussion about their five essential albums for WFUV, each member shared insights into what makes them tick.
- Bela Salazar: Limón y Sal by Julieta Venegas, a nostalgic favorite inspired by her mother.
- Mila de la Garza: Always Tomorrow by Best Coast, beloved for its catchy, sing-along tracks.
- Lucia de la Garza: Jump Rope Gazers by The Beths, valued for its emotional depth.
- Collective Choice: Beauty and the Beat by The Go-Go’s, admired for its fun, upbeat energy and dance-worthy tracks.
The Future of The Linda Lindas
The Linda Lindas have a bright future, thanks to their unapologetic attitude and contemporary punk energy. They honor their influences while creating music that resonates with modern audiences, proving that the spirit of riot grrrl is alive and well.
