Jennifer Finch, the bassist, vocalist and songwriter whose ferocious presence helped L7 ride out the alternative rock boom of the ’90s, has died. She was 59.
Finch died from an aggressive form of brain cancer, according to her death notice.
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L7 paid tribute to Finch in a statement, writing: “We are devastated 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 by her own rules, and the impact she had on music, the arts and everyone who was lucky enough to know her cannot be measured,” the band continued. “We love her beyond words and will always carry her with us. Rest in strength our dear friend.”
The statement was signed “With love, L7.”
Finch’s death comes shortly after L7 revealed that she had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer and would be unable to join the band’s upcoming farewell tour. The group said at the time that after numerous surgeries and serious complications, she required extensive medical care, rehabilitation and professional support at home.
Finch was a key member of L7’s classic line-up, anchoring the band’s guitar-heavy attack with a bass style that was punchy, melodic and designed for maximum impact.
Along with Donita Sparks, Susie Gardner and Dee Placas, she helped define L7’s place at the intersection of punk, metal, grunge and alternative rock, where the group’s distortion-heavy songs contained sharp humor and political edge.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1985, L7 broke through during the alternative boom of the early ’90s, becoming famous for songs such as “Pretend We’re Dead,” “Shove,” “Andres” and “Fuel My Fire.” Their 1992 album. Bricks are heavyproduced by Butch Vig, became the band’s cornerstone release, combining dirty riffs and screaming choruses with a restless, anti-glossy spirit.
Finch’s work with L7 was part of a wider creative life that extended beyond the stage. She was also a photographer, writer and artist, creating an interdisciplinary practice that reflected the same raw, DIY spirit she brought to music.
The statement announcing her death also acknowledged the “extraordinary outpouring of love and support” shown to Finch and those who cared for her, adding that it “meant more than words can express.”