Seeing Bikini Kill live at the Salt Shed in Chicago last year was an unforgettable experience. The energy of the crowd, the rawness of the music, and the electric atmosphere of the city were powerful. They reminded me of the band’s legacy and the space they’ve carved out in punk history—especially for women. Bikini Kill isn’t just a band; they’re a symbol of feminist resistance to the patriarchy and creative societal rebellion.
Bikini Kill is a feminist punk band formed in America in 1990. Their lead vocalist, Kathleen Hanna, often called women to come to the front of her punk shows. She described herself as “a feminist performance artist who was in a punk band” (NPR 2024). She printed out her lyrics and passed them out at shows, and made zines like the one pictured here. In a way, she radically altered the American punk music scene by creating space for women in it. She talked about political issues most were too uncomfortable to address at the time.
Watching Bikini Kill perform live made it clear how much of an impact they’ve had. Their impact was not only on punk music but on the broader cultural landscape. Kathleen Hanna’s unapologetic voice and activism continue to inspire new generations to speak up, push boundaries, and demand space. In a world still learning how to listen to women, Bikini Kill’s music is as urgent and vital as ever.
How do you feel about feminism? Please, let me know in the comments. I’d love to chat with you.
Things We Forget 
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