‘The male ego is even more fragile than it ever was’: Kim Gordon on shyness, AI and Zohran Mamdani’s cool

March 19, 2026

TL;DR

Gordon found it challenging to create original music when Sonic Youth began, influenced by bands like The Velvet Underground and no wave.
She initially had no plans for solo records but was encouraged by producer Justin Raisen.
Gordon considers herself more of a visual artist who writes, finding writing challenging but enjoyable once started.
She acted in a film loosely based on Nan Goldin, directed by Kristen Stewart.
Her approach to achieving goals is intuitive, marked by perseverance and overcoming self-doubt.
Gordon worked at a photocopy shop in Little Italy where artists like Basquiat and Jim Jarmusch frequented.
She was drawn to the anti-corporate and nihilistic aspects of no wave music, such as bands like DNA and Mars.
Gordon believes women had the most to rebel against, contributing to their role as outsiders.
She expresses fear and curiosity about AI due to its non-human nature and lack of perceived frailty.
Gordon describes performing as a means of overcoming shyness, making her feel both invincible and vulnerable.
She observes that the male ego seems more fragile now and advocates for more women in music to break down clichés.
Making art is seen as an antidote to feeling out of control, and she also finds solace in movies and TV.
In early days, performance venues had minimal amenities, contrasting with better riders in Europe.
Gordon wishes she had more self-confidence when she first moved to New York to pursue art more vigorously.

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