San Diego Music Hall of Fame®

Inducted 2024

Southern Californian native Cindy Lee Berryhill emerged as a distinctive voice in alternative music during the late 1980s. Her 1987 debut album “Who’s Gonna Save The World?” (Rhino Records), featuring the popular track “Damn, I Wish I Was a Man,” was praised for its straightforward and humorous approach. Berryhill’s career has been characterized by provocative lyrics, compelling melodies, and extensive touring alongside prominent acts like Peter Buck (REM), David Lindley, and The Smithereens. Berryhill was a founding member of the New York City Anti-folk movement which inspired Beck, Michelle Shocked, and others. Her influence grew through her involvement in diverse musical ventures and collaborations such as with Lenny Kaye (Patti Smith Group), who produced her second record.

Berryhill’s third album, “Garage Orchestra” (Cargo Records), released in 1994, marked a departure into Tin Pan Alley meets Beach Boys meets Patti Smith inspired compositions, showcasing her musical versatility. Her politically charged song “When Did Jesus Become a Republican?” gained considerable attention in 2006 after being prominently featured on Neil Young’s “Living with War Today” website. Berryhill’s music has served as a means to navigate personal challenges and connect with audiences, particularly evident in her albums “Beloved Stranger” (2008) and “The Adventurist” (2017), which reflect on her late husband’s legacy and her own life moving forward.

Excerpts from The San Diego Reader and Cindy Lee Berryhill’s Wikipedia page.

Official website: cindyleeberryhill.com