Digest

This podcast covers a wide range of topics related to women in music. It begins with a review of Throwing Muses' album *Moonlight Concessions*, focusing on Kristen Hirsch's songwriting and the band's unique sound. The majority of the podcast then delves into the often-overlooked contributions of women to the ska genre, particularly within the Two Tone movement, drawing heavily on Heather Augustine's book, "Rude Girls." The discussion highlights several influential female artists and bands, including Pauline Black of The Selecter (known for her androgynous image and powerful vocals), Rhoda Dakar of The Body Snatchers (and her feminist songwriting), and the largely uncredited women instrumentalists in Funboy Three. The podcast also explores The Deltones, a band influenced by Jamaican ska, and the challenges faced by female musicians balancing motherhood and careers. Finally, it concludes with a discussion of the lesser-known band The Lemons and their female frontrunner. The podcast emphasizes the sexism faced by women in the industry, their underrepresentation, and the societal expectations they had to overcome.

Outlines

00:00:30

Throwing Muses & Women in Ska Music

A review of Throwing Muses' *Moonlight Concessions* and an introduction to the often-overlooked contributions of women to ska music, focusing on the themes explored in Heather Augustine's "Rude Girls."

00:13:25

Key Women in Two Tone Ska

Discussion of influential female artists in the Two Tone ska movement, including Pauline Black (The Selecter), Rhoda Dakar (The Body Snatchers), and the women of Funboy Three, highlighting their challenges and achievements.

00:32:54

Beyond Two Tone: Ska's Diverse Female Voices

Explores the contributions of women in ska beyond the Two Tone movement, including The Deltones and their Jamaican influences, and the challenges faced by female musicians balancing careers and motherhood.

00:45:50

Independent Women in Ska and Beyond

Focuses on lesser-known bands like The Lemons, showcasing their DIY punk ethic and the success of their female frontrunner in other fields. Further discussion of the broader challenges faced by women in the music industry.

Keywords

Q&A

• What were some of the key challenges faced by women in the ska and two-tone scenes?

  Women faced sexism, underrepresentation, and balancing careers with motherhood.

• How did Pauline Black challenge gender stereotypes in ska music?

  Pauline Black's androgynous image and powerful vocals defied typical feminine stereotypes.

• Why is Heather Augustine's book, "Rude Girls," significant?

  "Rude Girls" highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women to ska and two-tone music.

• What makes Throwing Muses' *Moonlight Concessions* unique?

  *Moonlight Concessions* retains the signature Throwing Muses sound while incorporating a prominent use of cello.

• How did the cultural context of England in the late 70s and early 80s influence the Two Tone movement?

  Two Tone reflected the blending of West Indian and white British cultures and expressed anti-racist sentiments.

Show Notes