Their main influences at that time were Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps, and The Velvet Underground. Their goal? To rock harder than any other acoustic act on the planet.
They were rejected for an audition by a local nightclub and set up outside a Pretenders gig, and Chrissie Hynde asked them to open that night’s show. This gave the early Femmes a publicity boost which led to them being invited to play in NYC supporting Richard Hell.
A rave review in the New York Times led eventually to a record deal, which in turn spawned worldwide touring. They’re currently touring in commemoration of the thirtieth anniversary of the release of their eponymous first album.
When: June 18 from 7pm
Where: Troxy, 490 Commercial Rd, E1 0HX
Tickets cost £38.20. To book, click here
Image credit: Getty
