Album Notes

As one-fifth of the platinum-selling band the Go-Go's, KATHY VALENTINE helped smash the gender barrier in rock 'n roll. Not just a band made up of girls, the Go-Go's were a girl group with the emphasis on group, and among the constant and unmistakable strengths of their sound were Kathy's muscular and melodic bass lines, which gave those shimmering harmonies and smart hooks their urgent and undeniable pulse. She also co-wrote two of the band's biggest hits, "Vacation" and "Head Over Heels."

Oddly enough, for such a well-known bassist, Kathy actually started out as a guitar player in Austin, Texas. She made her way to London, England and joined a band, but returned home more revved up and excited about the punk and new wave bands that were happening there. Moving to Los Angeles, she played in the Textones before hooking up with the Go-Go's in 1980. When the Go-Go's disbanded, Kathy put together a succession of bands, but it was the rocking Bluebonnets and Delphines that really gave her a chance to pursue her first passion -- guitar. Check out the Delphines' CD, "Cosmic Speed" and you'll hear the echoes of those countless nights she snuck into Austin nightclubs to hear rock and blues bands as a young teen.

For a decade, the Delphines and reunited Go-Go's kept Kathy busy. Then, in 2002, while pregnant, Kathy decided to start a project she'd never gotten around to before: doing a solo record. Finally, working in between Go-Go's tours and being a new mom, her solo record "Light Years" is complete. On this record, you will hear and experience the talent of Kathy Valentine as a musician, writer, singer and producer. With a blues infused guitar slinging style, she effortlessly serves up a collection of punky-pop gems and classic English style rockers, all with heart, soul, and smart lyrics. Long overdue to be in the spotlight, "Light Years" is sure to bring a wider recognition to what many fans have known for a long time: KATHY VALENTINE ROCKS!!