Jennifer Finch, Bassist For Influential Rock Band L7, Dies At 59

Jennifer Finch, bassist of influential post-punk rock band L7, died following a battle with brain cancer. She was 59. The band posted the news on its Instagram page Saturday evening along with a caption, saying that its “beloved bandmate, friend, and fellow troublemaker Jennifer Finch has passed away today.”

L7’s rep also sent an official statement from the band: “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. 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.”

Finch was also a vocalist and songwriter for L7, which had a major impact on the Los Angeles music scene and rock scene at large in the late ’80s and ’90s. She was also a photographer, writer and multidisciplinary artist.

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On July 13, L7 announced that Finch was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and that her friends and family launched a GoFundMe to raise funds for the rock star’s treatment and recovery. Initially, it was believed that radiation treatment would improve her condition, but complications led to multiple surgeries and setbacks.

Many responded to the band’s call for support, including Violet Grohl, Joan Jett and actress Juliette Lewis. As of the night of July 18, the GoFundMe campaign raised more than $394,000, surpassing its goal of $350,000, with notable artists including Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion, Garbage, Bikini Kill’s Kathleen Hanna and Jeff Ament of Pearl Jam making significant contributions.

In May, L7 announced they were hitting the road for the U.S. leg of “The Last Hurrah Tour,” a farewell trek for the legendary feminist rockers. Following the diagnosis, Finch had to drop out of the U.S. dates but told her bandmates to continue with the tour as planned.

Finch was invited by Donita Sparks and Suzi Gardner to join L7, which formed in 1985 in Los Angeles. The band broke into the music business in 1988 with the release of its eponymous debut album, and the foursome’s breakthrough came with their third LP Bricks Are Heavy, which is widely considered to be one of the greatest grunge albums of all time with hits like “Pretend We’re Dead,” “Shitlist” and “Everglade,” which was co-written by Finch.

In addition to L7, Finch was a member of The Shocker and OtherStarPeople.