Last year, a new festival held their first event in the Bay Area in California. Doll Fest describes itself as “a celebration of the feminine energy, friendship, and community gathering together in support of one another.” This year, Doll Fest is back! Volume II will be held in Oakland, CA on March 28th and 29th with a pre-party on the 27th. And the lineup this year is just as jaw dropping and inspiring as the last.
We wanted to get in on the action, so we’ve asked the amazing bands a handful of questions about the festival including who they’re stoked to be playing with and what they think a festival of this caliber means to our scene.
We sat down with The Hellflowers out of LA. who discuss how Doll Fest is leading the way in the shift to include more femmes and POC on lineups, how this festival fosters positivity, and the importance of feeling 100% like yourself without judgement. Check out the interview below and grab your tickets to Doll Fest today!
Interview
What does playing a femme-only festival like Doll Fest mean to you personally?
Everything! So glad events like these are happening more often. In the past most festivals were male dominated and I’m definitely noticing a shift.
How does playing a festival like this shift the energy—on stage or in the crowd?
I think it fosters an atmosphere of positivity and inclusivity that a typical fest does not.
What would you want a younger version of yourself to feel seeing this lineup?
Inspired. To pick up that instrument, to create, to not be afraid to take the next step.
What does “taking up space” look like for you as a femme musician?
Feeling like I can be 100% myself without fear of judgement. On stage is really the only place I feel this way!
Who are some femme artists—past or present—who have inspired you or paved the way?
Dolly Parton, Siouxsie, one of my first records was the all female rock band “The Bangles.” Even Jem, the cartoon, haha. And East Bay’s own TILT.
How does your identity influence your music, performance style, or the stories you tell?
My identity is fluid and so is my performance style. I want every show to be unique and I like to go with the feeling I’m having in the moment. The stories I tell are just my lived experiences.
How does your lived experience show up in your lyrics or live performance?
Most of lyrics are based on just that. As far as live performance, not so much. More of just a free for all there
What is one local or regional band near you that you want the whole world to know about and want them to play Doll Fest?
Loud Graves is an amazing local band that everyone should know about. Would love to see TILT get back together and headline next year!
Post a comment