L7 Bassist Jennifer Finch Passes Away at 59

Jennifer Finch, bassist and co‑founder of the 1990s feminist grunge group L7, died on Saturday, July 18. She had been battling thyroid cancer since 2011, and more recently was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor. Her fellow band members announced her passing on Instagram, describing her as a “beloved bandmate, friend, and fellow troublemaker.” She was 59 years old.

In a statement posted on Pitchfork, the band wrote, “We are shattered by the loss of our beloved bandmate, sister and friend Jennifer Finch, whose fierce spirit, humor and boundless creativity helped shape L7 and changed all of our lives forever.” They added, “Jennifer was a true original who lived entirely on her own terms, and the impact she made on music, art and everyone lucky enough to know her cannot be measured. We love her beyond words and will carry her with us always. Rest in power our dear friend. With Love, L7.”

Initially diagnosed with brain cancer, Finch was advised to undergo radiation therapy. Over time, “unforeseen complications” necessitated multiple surgeries, which imposed significant physical limitations and required extensive medical care. Consequently, her bandmates set up a GoFundMe to assist with her medical expenses and at‑home care.

Finch founded L7 in 1985 alongside drummer Dee Plakas and singer‑guitarists Suzi Gardner and Donita Sparks. The group released six albums during their initial run, most notably 1992’s *Bricks Are Heavy*. They were outspoken advocates for women’s rights and the broader feminist movement, leveraging their platform to promote political change, including the organization of the Rock for Choice concerts in 1991. Their most successful crossover single, “Pretend We’re Dead,” blended a seemingly upbeat sound with lyrical critique of structures that marginalize women, reaching the Top 10 on the *Billboard* Modern Rock chart.

After announcing a reunion in 2014, L7 officially reconvened the following year with a series of extensive reunion tours. The band began crafting new material featuring confrontational lyrics such as “Dispatch From Mar‑a‑Lago” and “I Came Back to Bitch,” and they were featured in the documentary *L7: Pretend We’re Dead* by Sarah Price. In 2019, the group released *Scatter the Rats*, their first album in two decades.

The band marked their 40th anniversary last year with a special concert at the Belasco in Los Angeles. They also announced plans for a farewell tour dubbed “Last Hurrah,” scheduled for the fall, proceeding with the blessing of the late bassist.

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