The first time I saw the Gossip play live, singer Beth Ditto was belting out “I’ve Got a Crush on You.” It was during this show that I, along with many other hot screaming girls, developed a crush on the Gossip. I admired Ditto’s self-confidence as she stripped down to her bra, took command of the room and seriously shook her booty. Not only did her performance knock me off my feet (or was it the fourth Maker’s & Ginger?), but the musical energy constructed by the band was electrifying. Ditto’s gutsy vocals meshed perfectly with the rough riffs of Brace (AKA Nathan Howdeshell) and the simple but resonating beats of Kathy Mendonca; there was not one person that night standing still.
The Gossip recently released “Movement,” their third full-length CD. Despite some continued criticism of their musical talent by the media machine, they continue to do what they love and do it quite well.
For our Lip Service issue, it seemed like a great time to catch up with the Gossip. They preferred to answer the questions as a band, rather than individuals.
Has gossip ever affected you?
We’ve all been affected by gossip at some time in our lives.
What were your intentions when naming the band?
Let it be known that, like AK-47s, gossiping kills.
Do you collaborate on writing songs or does one of you primarily write them?
Brace makes up a guitar part, Kathy plays the drums to it and Beth sings along. Simple, like the Ramones.
Can you tell me how the band and you as individuals have progressed from the first time you performed together?
Gossip have grown into our instruments enough that we can create chaos in a much more controlled environment.
What is the most difficult thing about going on tour? What is the best thing?
Missing friends/lovers sucks; the best thing is after show dance clubs and chilling with a new crowd.
How do you prepare to go on stage? Any rituals?
We like to pray and hold hands, ya know like Boyz II Men-style.
What other musicians or groups are inspiring you at the moment?
Seattle’s own Shoplifting are always kicking our ass with their “way of like” hardcore/noise heat. We also dig on Les Georges Laningrads, the new Liars record sounding a little like “Bad Moon Rising” era Sonic Youth, and Sleetmute Nightmute.
You have been friends and bandmates for
quite a while. Do you always get along?
We are family-style, like Crass and the Ex.
What do you think is the biggest issue facing our country?
War and the decline of knowledge.
If you hadn’t become musicians, what do you think you would be doing now?
Selling our asses to the night.
There has been some criticism from the media that your recorded music isn’t as energized as your live performances—how do you respond to that?
Fuck them all.
How the Gossip deals with gossip?
• Ignore them—this is a great way to let the perpetrator know that you are MUCH better than them, thus greatly embarrassing their dumb asses.
• Make out with their significant other in front of them—this requires great skill and is often deemed the “007 move of the truly unruly”—best used in a VERY public place because, what sucks more than seeing someone you hate laying their paws lovingly on the privates of someone you currently dig hardcore?
• Make shit up—this can lead to much more gossip and eventually physical violence, but when the tough gets going... ya know?
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