NPR

Ramen Rock: These Japanese Punk Legends Sing About Food

For over 35 years, the all-female Shonen Knife has been serving up catchy punk titles like "Wasabi," "Hot Chocolate" and "Sushi Bar." But don't mistake them for bubblegum pop. These ladies are legit.
For our interview, Risa, Naoko and Atsuko changed into their signature outfits: geometric-patterned dresses, designed by Atsuko, reminiscent of a Mondrian painting.

By night, they play gigs. By day, they sample ramen in cities across America.

They're the three women of Shonen Knife, a legendary rock band from Japan. For over 35 years, the band has been serving up infectious punk songs with a delicious twist: Many of them are about food. Think song titles like "Wasabi," "Hot Chocolate" and "Sushi Bar." But don't dismiss them as bubblegum pop: Over the years,

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min readWorld
A Baby Girl Born Orphaned And Premature After An Israeli Airstrike In Gaza Has Died
The newborn died after five days in an incubator. Her family was killed in an air strike. UNICEF says 13,000 children have been killed in Gaza since Oct. 7, with thousands more orphaned and wounded.
NPR5 min read
DRC Is Seeing Its Worst Mpox Outbreak — But Has No Vaccines Or Treatments Yet. Why?
With nearly 5,000 cases reported so far this year — and concerns about a new strain — the Democratic Republic of Congo is considering the declaration of a public health emergency.
NPR4 min read
Taylor Swift Fans Mean Business With Tortured Poets Soap, Eras Yarn, Kelce Cookies
Entrepreneurial Swifties are selling crafty products inspired by Taylor Swift's music and style. Swift herself has been known to send notes and even homemade gifts to creative super-fans.

Related Books & Audiobooks