We caught up with Shonen Knife at Riot Fest 2025 in Chicago! The Osaka legends talk keeping a joyful stage energy, writing lyrics about everyday delights (delicious food, cute animals—with a dash of irony), and balancing loud guitars with bright, melodic optimism.
They break down short festival sets vs. headline shows (how they craft a 30-minute “all up-tempo” set vs. a deeper 70-minute cut), recent inspirations (yes, tennis tournaments!), and share a dream guest: Paul McCartney. Advice to young women in punk? “Enjoy music—and keep going as long as you can.” Three words for Chicago: Happy. Beautiful. Energetic. Post-show snack? Rice crackers.
Highlights
What first-timers should know about Shonen Knife
Everyday-life songwriting: food, animals, tiny ironies
Setlist strategy: festival sprint vs. long-form show
Dream collab: Paul McCartney @PaulMcCartney
Fans’ smiles = the band’s fuel
🎥 Interview by Music Coast at Riot Fest 2025
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