L7’s Jennifer Finch has died.
The bassist’s bandmates revealed earlier this week that she had been diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of brain cancer and her loved ones have now shared the sad news she has passed away.
A post on her Instagram account read: “We are devastated to announce the death of our partner, sister, daughter, and friend Jennifer Precious Finch. Jennifer’s impact on the world of music was seismic; her impact on our lives, even moreso.
“We appreciate everyone’s interest and concern, thank you for all the kind messages. We appreciate some space to heal privately during this difficult time.”
Her bandmates, which included Donita Sparks, Suzi Gardner and Demetra Plakas, also announced the news on their Instagram account.
They wrote: “With a very heavy heart we announce that our beloved bandmate, friend, and fellow troublemaker Jennifer Finch has passed away today. She had a long courageous fight with brain cancer and was loved by many wonderful friends, musical peers and fans worldwide. We love you Jennifer.”
And they paid tribute to her “fierce spirit” and “boundless creativity” in a separate statement as they vowed to “always” keep Jennifer with them.
They said in a statement shared through their representative: “We are shattered by the loss of our beloved bandmate, sister and friend Jennifer Finch, whose fierce spirit, humor and boundless creativity helped shape L7 and changed all of our lives forever. Jennifer was a true original who lived entirely on her own terms, and the impact she made on music, art and everyone lucky enough to know her cannot be measured. We love her beyond words and will carry her with us always. Rest in power our dear friend.”
When L7 announced Jennifer’s health struggles, they revealed she had asked them to continue with plans for their Last Hurrah Tour later this year.
On Instagram, the band wrote: “The Last Hurrah Tour was planned along with Jennifer when all four of us were in good health and spirits.
“Although she will not be able to join us for the upcoming U.S. dates, Jennifer has asked us to continue with the tour as planned.
“We will honor her request while making her care and well-being our immediate priority.”
Elsewhere in the Instagram post, Jennifer’s bandmates revealed a GoFundMe has been set up to help with medical costs.
They added: “Following multiple surgeries and serious complications, Jennifer now requires extensive medical care, rehabilitation and professional in-home support.
“Friends, family and L7 have launched a GoFundMe to help cover these urgent expenses and allow her to remain safely at home with the care, dignity and support she needs.”
They asked fans to “donate if you are able”, and to help by sharing the campaign “as widely as possibly”.
L7 formed in the mid-1980s, with three of their seven albums charting in the Billboard 200.
Their most recent record was Scatter the Rats in 2019, which was their first and only LP since their reunion in 2014.
Away from the pioneering all-female band, Jennifer previously dated Nirvana and Foo Fighters star Dave Grohl, and The Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan.
From 2000 to 2007, she was married to actor, musician and NASCAR driver Chris Pederson.
