The Linda Lindas: Garage Rock's Teenage Riot

The Linda Lindas are a multi-racial, all-girl punk band from Los Angeles, California. The group, consisting of sisters Lucia and Mila de la Garza, their cousin Eloise Wong, and family friend Bela Salazar, gained viral fame in 2021 for their performance of "Racist, Sexist Boy" at the Los Angeles Public Library, which led to a record deal with Epitaph Records and the release of their debut album.

Early Career

The Linda Lindas formed in 2018, initially playing together for a show at a DIY all-ages venue in Chinatown, Los Angeles. Their early exposure came through family connections in the music scene, including a role in the 2019 film "Moxie" directed by Amy Poehler, where they performed the classic punk song "Rebel Girl." The band's early sound was rooted in garage rock, pop punk, and the riot grrrl ethos, drawing direct inspiration from the punk and indie rock they were raised on.

Breakthrough

The Linda Lindas' breakthrough moment arrived in May 2021 when a video of them performing their original song "Racist, Sexist Boy" at the Los Angeles Public Library went massively viral. The potent, catchy track, written by bassist Eloise Wong about a real-life experience, resonated globally for its raw, youthful energy and clear political message. This online explosion quickly led to widespread media coverage and a signing with the legendary punk label Epitaph Records, which released their debut album "Growing Up" in 2022.

Key Tracks

Racist, Sexist Boy - This viral library performance catapulted the band to international attention, perfectly capturing their DIY spirit and unapologetic lyrical stance.

Oh! - A standout track from their debut album that showcases their knack for catchy, high-energy power pop melodies.

Growing Up - The title track of their first album reflects on the anxieties and experiences of teenage life over driving guitars.

Why - This song exemplifies their blend of punk urgency with relatable, questioning lyrics about the world around them.

Following their viral success, The Linda Lindas released their first full-length album, "Growing Up," in 2022 on Epitaph Records. The album was produced by veteran musician Carlos de la Garza and received positive critical reviews for its authentic and energetic take on modern punk and indie rock. The band has since performed on major television shows and at significant festivals, solidifying their place as a fresh, powerful voice in the contemporary punk landscape. Their music continues to draw from genres like garage rock and new wave, filtered through their own youthful perspective.

Fans of The Linda Lindas' energetic blend of punk and indie rock may also enjoy the sounds of Best Coast for their sunny yet gritty Californian garage rock. The raw, feminist energy of Bikini Kill is a clear foundational influence on their riot grrrl-inspired attitude. The catchy, rebellious spirit of The Regrettes shares a similar vein of youthful, punk-infused rock. Listeners might also appreciate the melodic punk approach of The Interrupters, who also carry the torch for upbeat, socially-conscious ska-punk.