My Thoughts
The book We Were Going to Change the World is a thought-provoking and invaluable read for those interested in the punk rock movement in Southern California in the 1970s and ’80s. Stacy Russo’s book illuminates the rarely discussed contribution of women in this dynamic and vital movement, offering fresh insight into the cultural and creative history of the period.
Using exclusive interviews with various women like musicians, journalists, photographers, and even fans, Russo communicates the spirit of why these women were attracted to punk rock and how this empowering scene affected their lives. The presence of prominent musicians like Exene Cervenka, Alice Bag, and Phranc, along with journalists and photographers like Ann Summa and Jenny Lens, lends a sense of authenticity and truth to the story.
The uniqueness of this book is attributed to a focus on the life stories of these women. Russo lets them voice their sufferings, achievements, and the gifts they gave to the punk rock culture. The interviews are sincere, poignant, and, at times, deeply emotional. In such personal reports, readers comprehend what all these women did.
Moreover, Russo’s book is not limited to musicians and industry professionals. Still, it emphasizes the role of the fans and scenesters who helped the bands and contributed their vigor to the scene. This pluralistic perspective provides a broader and more balanced perspective of Southern California punk rock.
We Were Going to Change the World does not simply document an oral history of one music scene; it also contributes significantly to punk rock and women’s studies literature. However, by spotlighting the women who played a significant role in this dynamic and instrumental movement, Russo’s book challenges the male-dominated narrative that has often eclipsed their contribution to them.
Finally, We Were Going to Change the World is an inspiring, revealing, and insightful book that gives a voice to the Southern California punk rock movement of the 1970s and ’80s. Stacy Russo’s collection of interviews reflects the strength and imagination of these women and gives a whole new side to the studies of bop rock and women’s studies. This book should be read by music lovers, feminists, and those passionate about punk rock’s history. This was an amazing book, I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Santa Monica Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book
