Rock Goddess

Sisters Jody and Julie Turner launched the band when Jody reached thirteen and Julie nine. At those early ages Jody already handled guitar duties capably, while Julie showed clear promise on drums. Their father operated a music shop in Wandsworth, London, that included a rehearsal room beside the premises. With school friend Tracey Lamb, an aspiring bassist, the sisters assembled a set of songs. A first demo tape was completed in 1981, after which the group began performing in London clubs and developed a reputation as schoolgirl rockers able to compete with more established acts. Karine, singer of Androids Of Mu, took notice and asked them to record the track ‘Make My Night’, which she produced, for the all-female compilation Making Waves.

They then toured with Androids Of Mu and the Gymslips while their father served as manager. His efforts secured a contract with A&M Records, so most of 1982 was spent writing material and playing live. The debut album and the single ‘My Angel’ both appeared in 1983. As Girlschool’s popularity waned, the band absorbed part of that audience and strengthened its lineup by recruiting Kate Burbela on second guitar. A follow-up album released the same year earned stronger reviews, yet Tracey Lamb soon departed and was succeeded by Dee O’Malley. O’Malley herself left in 1986 to start a family. Though the final album proved a respectable effort, interest in the band had faded, leading Jody to begin a solo career. Tracey Lamb joined Girlschool in 1988.