Jane Wiedlin Biography

Short Summary

Jane Wiedlin is a renowned musician and songwriter, best known as the rhythm guitarist and co-founder of the iconic all-female band The Go-Go's. Her contributions to the music industry include not only her work with the band but also her solo career and songwriting for other artists. Wiedlin's distinctive voice and unique style have made her a celebrated figure in the punk and new wave music scenes.

Early Life & Education

Jane Wiedlin was born on May 20, 1958, in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and grew up in the suburbs of Los Angeles, California. Her father was an oral surgeon, and her mother was a stay-at-home parent. From a young age, Wiedlin was drawn to music and the arts. She attended William Howard Taft High School in Los Angeles, where she developed an interest in punk rock, a genre that would greatly influence her musical career. Following high school, she briefly attended college, studying fashion design before fully committing to her passion for music.

Career Highlights

Jane Wiedlin's career took off in the late 1970s when she co-founded The Go-Go's, a pioneering all-female rock band that achieved major success in the 1980s. The band released several hit albums, including "Beauty and the Beat," which went multi-platinum. Beyond her work with The Go-Go's, Wiedlin pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles. She also contributed her songwriting talents to other artists, further establishing her reputation in the music industry. Additionally, Wiedlin made appearances in films and television, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.

Major Achievements

Co-founded The Go-Go's, the first all-female band to top the Billboard charts with a debut album.
Released a successful solo album, "Fur," featuring the hit single "Rush Hour."
Contributed to the songwriting of several popular songs for various artists.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Go-Go's in 2021.

Famous Quotes

"The Go-Go's were a band that just wanted to have fun and make music."
"Music is the soundtrack to our lives, and I'm grateful to be a part of that."

Interesting Facts

Jane Wiedlin had a brief cameo in the movie "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" as Joan of Arc.
She is an avid animal rights supporter and has worked with organizations like PETA.
Wiedlin is also a licensed minister, capable of performing weddings.

Legacy / Influence

Jane Wiedlin's influence on the music industry is profound, particularly in paving the way for female musicians in rock and new wave genres. Her work with The Go-Go's broke barriers, proving that an all-female band could achieve commercial success and critical acclaim. Her solo career and songwriting contributions further cemented her status as a versatile and talented musician, inspiring future generations of artists.