Jennifer Finch, the influential bassist known for her role in the 90’s punk rock scene, has died at age 59.
She had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Finch’s former band L7, known for its raw and politically charged sound, led tributes following her passing.
The band described Finch as someone who lived entirely on her own terms, saying her influence on music, art, and everyone who knew her was immeasurable. They expressed deep love for her and vowed to carry her memory forward.
Just six days before her death, L7, made up of Suzi Gardner, Donita Sparks, and Dee Plakas, announced that Finch would be unable to join their upcoming farewell tour due to unexpected complications related to her cancer diagnosis.
Before joining L7 in 1986, Finch played bass in the San Francisco band Sugar Babydoll, alongside Courtney Love and Kat Bjelland.
Finch left L7 in 1996, but the band reunited in 2014 and went on to release their most recent album, “Scatter the Rats,” in 2019.
Earlier this year, L7 announced the first leg of their farewell tour, titled “The Last Hurrah 2026”, which had been scheduled to begin in October.
Outside of music, Finch was previously in relationships with Nirvana’s Dave Grohl and Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins. She was married to actor, musician, and race car driver Chris Pedersen from 2000 to 2007.
Finch’s death marks a significant loss for the punk rock community, with fans and fellow musicians continuing to honor her influence on the genre and the artists she inspired throughout her career.
