Her illness went public on July 13. A GoFundMe campaign was launched by family and friends to help cover treatment costs. Tragically, Jennifer Finch died from brain cancer on July 18. The artist, the iconic bassist of L7, a trailblazer of the American punk scene and a major influence for many women in music, was 59.
"With heavy hearts we share the news of the death, announced today, of our dear bandmate, friend and ally Jennifer Finch. She fought a long, brave battle against brain cancer and was loved by countless wonderful friends, musicians and fans around the world. We love you, Jennifer." posted L7 on Instagram.
Founded in 1985 in Los Angeles, California, L7 has long been associated with the grunge and riot grrrl movements. In just a few albums, buoyed by timeless singles like "Pretend We're Dead" and "Monster", the band formed by Donita Sparks, Suzi Gardner, Demetra Plakas and Jennifer Finch— recognizable for her red hair — has truly revolutionized the female punk rock scene.
Despite their success in the 1990s, bassist Jennifer Finch leaves the band in 1996. L7 continues with Gail Greenwood and later Janis Tanaka, each brought in to fill the role. After a 13-year hiatus, L7 finally reconvenes in 2014 with the original lineup. The band then plays at several festivals, including Hellfest in 2015, and also appears at the Bataclan in Paris the same year.
A few months ago, L7 announced “The Last Hurrah Tour,” a world farewell trek set to kick off on October 6, 2026 in San Diego, United States, with Tsuzumi Okai on bass, filling in for Jennifer Finch. The bassist, also a seasoned photographer, had urged her bandmates to press ahead with the final tour despite her illness and absence.
On July 13, a GoFundMe campaign launched by loved ones publicly revealed Jennifer Finch's illness. The bassist for L7 had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. According to information posted on GoFundMe, unforeseen complications had forced the musician to undergo several surgeries. "The cancer and its consequences have left her with significant physical limitations; she faces the situation in the only way she knows how: one day at a time," the post read.
A host of anonymous supporters and artists, including Garbage, Michael Stipe of REM, and also Maynard James Keenan of Tool, had decided to back her in this tough battle. The $350,000 goal had, in fact, been reached.
