Culture changing? It’s a hope, it’s a plan and in some key ways, it’s happening. And some of that can be sheeted home to organisations like One Of One, a charity looking to improve the pathways for women and non-binary music industry professionals. And those who would like to be.
One of the most visible efforts of One Of One – for fundraising, collaboration or just old fashioned networking – was the series of (very un-rock’n’roll) Breakfasts through March, from Brisbane and Darwin to Adelaide , Melbourne and Sydney.
Closing out March, which has been Women’s History Month and marked its first week with International Women’s Day it should be remembered, here’s some insight from the One Of One Breakfast tour’s contributor Joc Curran, who was behind Brisbane’s premier venue, The Zoo, for 30 years.
Who, Joc was asked, were some of the best/most inspiring/exciting/life changing/just bloody fantastic gigs at The Zoo by women during her time – 1992-2016. And what’s one song to sum them up?
She had a list. We’ve taken note. (Click here for an accompanying playlist.)
ISIS - 1994
Treat Yourself Gently This powerhouse group, has been on the Zoo journey with me, playing from the very beginning, and recently taking to the stage for the 30th birthday celebrations. They are fierce, they are bold, talented and amazing musicians who helped pave the way for women lead music in Brisvegas over the past 30 years.
SCREAMFEEDER – 1996
Dart. Brisbane royalty, powerhouse of amazing music. I was also Kellie’s flatmate back in the 90’s, so I might be a wee bit biased here. Absolute rock legends. Who are still creating amazing music today.
GEORGE – 1998
Special Ones George cut their baby teeth on the Zoo playing some of their very first shows with us. A long musical relationship and friendship formed with Katie Noonan, who along with her husband Zac Hurren ran our monthly Jazz On A Sunday Vibe for 7 years.
MAGIC DIRT - 2000
Dirty Jeans Formed a life long friendship with this band, from very early days, when they would come and crash at our house when touring in Brisvegas. They are legends and I love their music, their ethics and who they are as people and musicians.
PEACHES – 2002
Fuck The Pain Away Peaches first tour to Australia, having just performed at the Big Day Out she came and did a special Zoo sideshow. It was a very hot Tuesday night Jan 22, 2002. Everyone in the room knew that history was in the making and they had the privilege of witnessing magic.
MISSY HIGGINS – 2004
Scar I remember when they were sound checking I had a bit of a crush on Missy’s amazing voice, so unique in its timbre. I got a piece of merch, (something I rarely did) a singlet, signed, and wore it until it was threadbare.
JULIETTE & THE LICKS – 2008
Hot Kiss It was one of those shows, where a little bit of Hollywood came to Brisvegas and they did not disappoint, completely rocked out and the Zoo and everyone was so happy to go along for the ride.
LAURA MARLING – 2010
Rambling Man Laura’s first ever Brisbane show, she mesmerised the audience, the room was silent as this songstress commanded the stage and captivated the room. One of those shows when you get to say - I was there!!!
GRIMES – 2012
Genesis One of the most sought after sold out shows of the year. Grimes took to the stage in a stripped back version with just her keyboard, synthesizer and two back up dancers. Fans for life were created that evening.
LORDE – 2013
Royals Very first Australian show for the uber talented 16-year-old. The Zoo welcomed Lorde on a humble Wednesday night as she began her sold out tour. With her famous locks of hair cascading down, Lorde owned the stage with her own brand of magic emanating to all lucky enough to be in her presence.
SHARON VAN ETTEN – 2015
Our Love While in the country for Golden Plains we were so very lucky to have Sharon play a special sideshow for us. Such a talent, the audience was spellbound as she delighted fans with her ethereal voice.
But wait, Joc had more.
Here’s some other amazing female-led acts who’ve played The Zoo that she wants you to know about and hopefully explore on your own.
THE SUPERJESUS – 2000
THE WAIFS - 2002
THE GRATES – 2004
CLARE BOWDITCH - 2006
KATE MILLER HIEDKE – 2007
ANGUS and JULIA STONE – 2007
KASEY CHAMBERS - 2008
KAKI KING – 2009
KITTY DAISY & LEWIS – 2009
AMANDA PALMER – 2010
MEGAN WASHINGTON – 2010
CLOUD CONTROL - 2010
OF MONSTERS AND MEN – 2012
GROUP LOVE – 2012