A group of menopausal women, who might seem an unlikely fit, come together to form a punk band in a new BBC One series called Riot Women by Sally Wainwright. The show, airing on Sunday nights, follows the journey of these women who defy stereotypes and embrace their punk roots.
The series, which airs at 9pm and is also available on iPlayer, resonates with Gina Birch and Ana da Silva, the founders of the punk group The Raincoats almost 50 years ago. Gina, aged 70, and Ana, 77, met as art students in London in the Seventies and bonded over their shared passion for music and rebellion.
Having grown up in a strict dictatorship in Portugal, Ana found solace in London’s freedom of expression. The punk scene, with its emphasis on individuality and defiance, particularly appealed to her. Gina, on the other hand, was drawn to the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of London, leaving behind her provincial life in Nottingham.
Their friendship blossomed as they attended gigs together, immersing themselves in the music scene of the era. Inspired by bands like The Slits, they took the plunge and formed their own band, The Raincoats, in 1977. Over the years, they released albums and went on tours, experiencing both highs and lows in their musical journey.
Despite creative tensions and eventual disbandment, The Raincoats’ music found a new audience when Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain expressed his admiration for their work. His endorsement led to a resurgence of interest in the band, culminating in a reunion and further musical collaborations.
While The Raincoats may no longer perform together, their legacy endures, with Ana and Gina reflecting on their remarkable journey in the music industry. Kurt Cobain’s impact on their lives remains profound, with his appreciation serving as a poignant reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and inspire generations.