The announcement of a posthumous memoir by L7 bassist Jennifer Finch is a fascinating development in the music industry, offering a unique perspective on the life of a pioneering female musician. Finch's memoir, titled Shooting Up and Making Out: A Memoir of My Life in LA and L7, is set to be released on January 19th through publisher Da Capo. It promises to be a candid and insightful account of Finch's journey, from her early days in the music scene to her role as a bassist in the influential all-female hard rock group L7.
What makes this memoir particularly intriguing is the personal and professional challenges Finch faced. As a recovering addict, photographer, and co-founder of a pro-choice group, her story is one of resilience and strength. Finch's involvement in L7, a band that became a symbol of feminist rock in the 1980s and 1990s, adds a layer of complexity to her narrative. The memoir is co-written by Jeff Alulis, who worked closely with Finch to ensure her vision was captured accurately.
Finch's death from an aggressive form of brain cancer in July 2026 was a tragic loss for the music community. Her passing sparked an outpouring of support from fellow musicians, artists, and fans, demonstrating the impact she had on those around her. Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, for instance, dedicated a song to her during a performance, highlighting the respect and admiration she commanded.
Finch's musical career began in Sugar Babydoll, a band that included future Hole frontwoman Courtney Love and Babes in Toyland founder Kat Bjelland. However, it was her co-founding of L7 in 1986 with Donita Sparks and Suzi Gardner that solidified her place in music history. L7's influence as a feminist rock band continues to resonate, and their farewell tour in 2026 marks the end of an era.
The memoir's release is a testament to Finch's enduring legacy and the impact she had on the music industry. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by women in music and the power of perseverance. Finch's story, as told through her memoir, is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of music, activism, and personal struggle. It offers a unique and honest perspective on the life of a musician, one that is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
