Kathleen Hanna: “I love that really sparse guitar sound so much – that’s how I write and that’s what I want to hear”

After we talk, famed feminist and political artist, Kathleen Hanna, is off to drop off some T-shirts to The Linda Lindas, the internet’s newest and favorite punk-rock quartet. 

Hanna has worked with the band for years, mentoring their burgeoning, significant, youthful project. In a recent viral video, The Linda Lindas were seen wearing t-shirts from Hanna’s Tees4Togo business, which helps to raise awareness and funds for young women in Togo to get their education. 

But this work should come as no surprise to fans and followers of Hanna. She’s long dedicated her life to empowering young voices, especially those belonging to young women. 

As a result, she’s become known the world over for her music and her politics. Hanna, who is also married to a Beastie Boy, is 20th century rock royalty. Legend has it she came up with the name “Smells Like Teen Spirit”.