Kim Althea Gordon is an accomplished American musician, vocalist, and artist, best known for her work with the alternative rock band Sonic Youth. Born in Rochester, New York, on April 28, 1953, Gordon was raised in Los Angeles, California. She later studied art at the Otis Art Institute, which would later influence her work in music and visual arts.
In 1981, Gordon formed Sonic Youth with ex-husband Thurston Moore, serving as the band's bassist, guitarist, and vocalist. The band quickly rose to prominence in the New York City music scene, becoming one of the most influential alternative rock bands of the 1980s and 1990s. Throughout her time with Sonic Youth, Gordon collaborated with various musicians, including Ikue Mori, Kurt Cobain, DJ Olive, William Winant, Lydia Lunch, Alan Licht, and Chris Corsano.
After Sonic Youth's breakup in 2012, Gordon formed Body/Head with friend Bill Nace, releasing their debut album Coming Apart in September 2013. Gordon has also worked on various other musical projects, including Free Kitten with Julia Cafritz (of Pussy Galore), and producing Hole's debut album Pretty on the Inside (1991). In addition to her work in music, Gordon has also worked as a visual artist and fashion designer, debuting a fashion line called X-Girl in 1993.
Gordon's memoir, Girl in a Band, was published in February 2015, by HarperCollins imprint Dey Street Books. The memoir provides an intimate look into Gordon's life, from her childhood in California to her time with Sonic Youth and beyond. It offers a unique perspective on the music industry and the experiences of a female musician in a male-dominated field. Through her work in music, visual arts, and fashion, Gordon has made significant contributions to the cultural landscape and continues to inspire and influence artists today.