05.11.18
Words by:

Marie Davidson is a master of sardonic wit. The kind that doesn’t let on if it’s sniggering with you or at you.

The Québécois producer directly channels this into her fourth album, the disarmingly honest Working Class Woman. Weaving through chiming, celestial soundscapes and thumping fuck-you beats, the record is a funny, cutting and self-determined navigation of her career in the club so far – the misogyny, the workaholism, the moments of introspection. And it’s delivered with a deadpan cadence that makes you listen twice.

Here, we talk to Davidson about the songs that taught her how to work it.

  • Marie Davidson © Etienne Saint Denis

  • © Etienne Saint Denis

An album that reminds me of my first job

Daydream Nation by Sonic Youth [Enigma, 1988]. I used to listen to this album when I was closing at my first job in a cafe. Teenage Riot used to be my song for mopping the floor. I was 17.

An album that spurred on my feminist awakening

Spice by Spice Girls [Virgin, 1996]. It’s the first album that made me aware of feminism. This was the first time I ever heard the words ‘girl power’ and that really spoke to me at a young age.

A song that reminds me of my first formative club experience

Gimme the Light by Sean Paul [Black Shadow, 2002]. When I started clubbing I was 16, so at that time it was the song in the club. I was underage and I’d try ways to get in anyway by being on guest lists or trying to look older. I love this track. It’s aged so well.

A song that helped shape my political identity

Atomic Witchdokta [1994] by Underground Resistance. They’re the perfect example of how you can do things your own way. Their music knocks down barriers.

A song that makes me feel fierce

Sex Jam by SLEAZY [TAG OUT, 2017]. I made the track with my best friend and partner in crime Ginger Breaker. The song is very playful but it comes from a strong sense of anger and amusement. It comes from my own fucking guts. It’s directed to anyone who has ever tried to fuck with me. The message is pretty clear.

Working Class Woman is out now via Ninja Tune