Luscious Jackson - Citysong

What this video is

Released in 1994 as the lead single from Luscious Jackson's debut LP Natural Ingredients on the Beastie Boys' Grand Royal Records, 'Citysong' arrived at the apex of MTV's alternative boom. The all-female New York quartet occupied a singular cultural position: indie-rock credibility via the Grand Royal underground, hip-hop sampling aesthetics (the track samples Gladys Knight & the Pips), and a feminist DIY ethos…

Why it matters

A landmark artifact of mid-90s female-led indie-rock, 'Citysong' represents the convergence of alternative rock, hip-hop sampling, and feminist downtown NYC culture. Its video, directed by Tamra Davis — a critical force in elevating women both behind and in front of the camera in the MTV era —…

The director

Tamra Davis (born January 22, 1962, Studio City, CA) is an American film, television, and music video director who helmed over 155 music videos. She began her career directing for acts including Tone Loc, Depeche Mode, NWA, Sonic Youth, and Luscious Jackson,…