Riot Friends

Friends Friday

This Friends Friday I would like to celebrate the power of art as it nurtures the female preference for friendship and connection. Under-represented groups often find solace and power together. Women have gathered at clothes lines, on riverbanks, grocery stores, in 1848 Seneca Falls, in Congress and corner offices on the 24th floor somewhere.

In 1924 Ida Cox sang, “Wild Women don’t have the Blues” letting her other wild rule breaking sisters know, you are not alone, and if you are, join us. You are powerful.

“The song is often also referred to by the title “Wild Women Don’t Get the Blues,” or simply “Wild Women.” While it may seem tame by today’s standards, it’s a sure bet that a black woman – or any woman – singing a song that so flagrantly disputed the authority of a man in 1924 caused controversy. And the song was a big seller for Cox because, as they say, controversy sells, especially when it’s propelled by lyrics like:

I’ve got a disposition and a way of my own,
When my man starts to kicking I let him find a new home,
I get full of good liquor, walk the street all night
Go home and put my man out if he don’t act right
Wild women don’t worry,
Wild women don’t have the blues” (American Songwriter)

Feminism has always been inclusive at its best and trail blazers like Ida Cox used music and performance in their pursuit to equalize the “playing field” and empower women to take charge. Sisters know that together is always better than alone.

Recently friends of mine (women) recommended the Britbox series, Riot Women. There are only 6 episodes in this season, with another season on the way. You can get Britbox for 7 days on a free trail. I watched all six episodes in two days: I am not sure what I’ll do when Season 2 is ready. At first glance, I thought this show was going to be all marshmallows and pillows; just a fun little show about kooky older ladies wanting to start a punk band. I thought it would be an easy watch like eating candy on the couch. It was better than that, much better. I do not want to give anything away. But I will say, the show examines female friendships at different levels of connection, some newly formed friendships, and others more seasoned. These female friendships deepen as they live their lives in this patriarchal world of men. At times, it is not easy to watch, even if you have candy, or a glass of wine, but it is riveting. Authors note: (Mayo clinic: wine is healthier than milk chocolate)

What most impressed me was the clear difference between genders as it comes to solving conflicts. Friendships of all kinds, like the roller coaster of life, can be complicated with obstacles that can seem insurmountable. Are they? You’ll have to watch to see.

Riot Women is more than the formation of a punk band; it is an exploration and celebration of the fundamental female drive for connection. These women have taken different paths to earn their middle age+ status. They have trouble in their private as well as their collective lives; but, nevermind. I’ve already said too much.

Watch the show. I know Ida Cox would be proud of these wild women and would probably have joined the band!

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