Le Tigre - Definition and Overview

Le Tigre is a feminist electro pop/punk band formed in 1998 by Kathleen Hanna after the demise of her previous band, Bikini Kill. Other members include Johanna Fateman and JD Samson. JD replaced Sadie Benning as a regular member before the Feminist Sweepstakes album. She had previously worked with the band producing projected visuals during Le Tigre's live performances.

The band mixes politically aware lyrics with dance music. Their name might be derived from a preppy clothing brand that was active during the 1980s.

The song "Hot Topic" on Le Tigre's self-titled debut pays tribute to dozens of visual artists, musicians, writers, and others who have inspired them. Among the honorees are: Yoko Ono, Aretha Franklin, Vaginal Creme Davis, Billy Tipton, James Baldwin, and Jean Genet.

The first two recordings by the band were released on the independant label Mr. Lady, run by Kaia Wilson of The Butchies and artist Tammy Rae Carland. The album This Island (2004) was Le Tigre's first on a major label (Universal/Strummer). Ric Ocasek of the Cars produced one track, "Tell You Now."

Discography

Albums

• Le Tigre (1999)
• Feminist Sweepstakes (2002)
• This Island (2004)

EPs and singles

• Hot Topic (1999)
• From the Desk of Mr. Lady EP (2001)
• Remix (2003)

See also

List of all-women bands

External Links

• Le Tigre World (http://www.letigreworld.com/) (official site)
• Busy Grrrl's Fansite (http://busygrrrl.homestead.com/letigre.html)
• Le Tigre talk to Vaginal Creme Davis (http://www.laweekly.com/ink/01/19/music-davis.php)
• Le Tigre's live show (http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0268/is_6_41/ai_98123127)