"To be truly strong, a performer/artist must enter into extreme vulnerability. If you embrace vulnerability, you emerge fearless from staring your fear in the face. The more open you are in your work as a performer/artist, the more strength you gather."--Jarboe (Swans)

In a series of twenty candid interviews with radical women musicians, author Zora von Burden gives the forerunners of this generation a voice and probes the depths of how and why they broke through society's limitations to create works of outstanding measure. Among the musical genres covered are rock, punk, goth, industrial, electronica, performance art, lounge, and more. An inspiration to young women and fascinating to music fans of all ages and genders, these musical innovators are unconventional, exceptional groundbreakers who have strong followings and have influenced generations for the past fifty years and beyond. An essential reference work for libraries, universities, contemporary art museums, and cultural institutions.

Includes interviews with: Wanda Jackson, Miss Mercy (GTOs), Moe Tucker (Velvet Underground), Nina Hagen, Lydia Lunch, Adele Bertei (The Contortions), Cosey Fanni Tutti (Throbbing Gristle), Jarboe (Swans), Slymenstra (Gwar), Patricia Morrison (Sisters of Mercy, The Damned), Teresa Nervosa (Butthole Surfers), Laurie Anderson, Kembra Pfahler (The Voluptuous Horror of Karen Black), Pam Tent (The Cockettes), Pauline Black (The Selecter), and many others.