L7 bassist Jennifer Finch has died at the age of 59 after battling brain cancer. The pioneering rock group announced her death in a statement on Instagram, just days after revealing her cancer diagnosis.
The iconic grunge group paid tribute to their former band member and “dear friend”. They wrote that their “beloved bandmate, friend, and fellow troublemaker Jennifer Finch has passed away today”.
Tributes From Bandmates and Peers
L7 stated Jennifer had a “long courageous fight with brain cancer”. She was “loved by many wonderful friends, musical peers and fans worldwide”.
A statement on Jennifer’s own Instagram confirmed her death, announcing the passing of their “partner, sister, daughter, and friend Jennifer Precious Finch”. The statement added: “Jennifer’s impact on the world of music was seismic; her impact on our lives, even moreso.”
The band Garbage paid tribute to Jennifer, writing: “Godspeed beautiful Jennifer. Thank you.” The band Fea commented: “We are completely heartbroken by the news about Jennifer Finch.” Fea added that it “feels so sudden, and our hearts go out to her family, friends, bandmates, and the entire L7 community.” One fan wrote: “My heart is broken.”
Recent Diagnosis and Music Career
L7 recently revealed that Finch had been diagnosed with cancer. This meant she would have to miss their upcoming tour, The Last Hurrah Tour, which kicks off in October.
Frontwoman Donita Sparks stated: “We are all devastated by the news and are surrounding her with love, protecting her privacy and dignity, while helping raise the resources she urgently needs for the care ahead.” Sparks added: “Jennifer is family, and we want her to feel the full strength of the community that has loved and supported her for so many years.”
Jennifer played in L7 from 1986 until 1996 before rejoining the band in 2014. She also played with Kurt Cobain’s wife Courtney Love in the band Sugar Babylon.
Beyond music, the musician was also a photographer, writer, and visual artist. Jennifer acted in the 1984 film The Census Taker and in the 1994 film Serial Mom.
Her passing comes as the rock community reflects on her “seismic” impact on the world of music.