On Music: Kate Bush and other muses…

Kate Bush turns 60 today, and I am reminded now of her extensive catalogue of creativity, and the impact her music had on me as a young one. The debut of Kate, and many other female artists who emerged in the mid 70’s and 80’s, gifted to me some powerful, creative role models to admire and each of them were inspirational to me in believing that there was nothing wrong with having dreams and creative visions, whatever your gender and background.

I will always be influenced by music in general, and there are women from past and present that I love to listen to, from Judy Garland to Pink to Florence Welch and many, many others. However, this is my tribute to Kate and to these incredible women in music that I was listening to in my formative years; the soundtracks that accompanied my coming of age and beyond.

This list evokes not just an era of development and discovery, but also a rich and sensuous collection of talent, strength and individuality, more powerful because every one of them have endured and are still creating. It also reminds me that no matter the light or shade of the day, I was, and am, in the best of company. When the voices in your head get too loud, turn that music up!

Note: While I would love to include favourite songs and images, being mindful of copyright infringements, I am linking to official websites only.

KATE BUSH

Mesmerized from the first time I saw her ethereal performance of Wuthering Heights. Website HERE

SUZI QUATRO

Guitars, leather and catchy rock songs sung with a voice that could shatter glass, what’s not to love! Website HERE

STEVIE NICKS

Still singing to my soul, a goddess! Website HERE

BLONDIE (Debbie Harry)

Show me a woman of my generation who didn’t worship Blondie! Seriously! Website HERE

CHRISSIE HYNDE

A bad girl with good intentions, Chrissie keeps rocking! Website HERE

GRACE JONES