Books and Music with Jamie Anderson

Jamie Anderson is a prolific writer published in many journals, on her popular blog site, and in several books including her memoir, Drive All Night. She’s also a touring songwriter who’s played in hundreds of venues and released 11 albums.

Jamie will be signing copies of and reading from her most recent book, An Army of Lovers: Women’s Music of the ‘70s and ’80s.

A month before the 1969 Stonewall Riots Maxine Feldman penned a song, “Angry Atthis,” about the shame surrounding lesbians. Four years later, Alix Dobkin released “Lavender Jane Loves Women,” the first record produced, engineered and played by women. A myriad of musicians joined them, from acappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock, to singer-songwriter Cris Williamson, to activist/singer Holly Near, to jazz/gospel musician Mary Watkins and many more; collectively they have sold millions of albums. Venues, radio shows, record distributors, media, labels and sound technicians sprung up to host and work with these performers. Fans traveled miles to attend performances. These women set out to create something different than what was present in mainstream music. They created artist-run independent record labels and organized music festivals that drew thousands. Before Lilith Fair and riot grrrls, there was women’s music!