Music: Softcult's "She said, He said": the feminist grunge manifesto

Softcult is a canadian grunge duo composed of twin siblings mercedes arn-horn (vocals/guitar) and phoenix arn-horn (vocals/drums/production). they are a central force in a modern, digital-age riot grrrl movement, known for blending grunge, shoegaze, and alternative rock with a fiercely activist and diy ethos. softcult's music is explicitly political and social, addressing endemic issues like misogyny, sexual assault, and mental health. phoenix handles the production and artwork, while mercedes writes, produces, and directs their impactful videos, and they co-create their monthly activist zine, scripture. their core philosophy is captured in the quote that inspired them: "when a flower doesn't bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower."

"She said, he said" is a powerful and unflinching single from softcult, directly addressing the culture of mistrust surrounding survivors of sexual assault.

the meaning behind the song is a demand for belief and accountability. vocalist mercedes arn-horn explains that the song is "about believing survivors of assault." the track confronts the misogynistic skepticism and bogus claims that perpetuate misinformation, which ultimately enables predators and silences victims. the lyrics tell a story that is tragically familiar: the "nice guy" who coerces and pressures his victim instead of asking for consent.

Band Page: https://www.instagram.com/softcultband/?hl=en