G.I.R.L.S. ROCK SACRAMENTO

gender inclusivity through radical love and support

 

CRYSTAL BLUE (SHE/HER)
BOARD PRESIDENT
DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRIBAL AFFAIRS | California Department of Conservation

What was your first concert? My first show was in 6th grade for KSFM 102.5's Spring Jam.

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? I have so many! Mary Jane Girls and Teena Marie are some of my faves. I also have much love for Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Spice Girls, Doja Cat, Halsey, SZA, Mariah Carey, Gwen Stefani, Erykah Badu, Olivia Rodrigo -- to name a few.

What empowers you? I am empowered by my connection with Creator, healing, resilience, knowledge and education, wellness, gratitude, love, positive energy, water, and nature.

 

Myki ANgeline (she/her)
BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
GRAMMY Member SF Chapter | Content Manager, Women's International Music Network

What was your first concert? Olivia Newton-John at the old "Echo" Arena. 1981! John Travolta joined her onstage as a surprise guest.

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? If I had to choose only one, I would pick Olivia Newton-John. Her music got me through the toughest times in my youth. I purchased nearly all of her vinyl back in the day. I love what she stands for, and how compassionate she is about animals and the environment.

What empowers you? That I have finally bodied self love and self respect. Setting boundaries has empowered me to shut out the negative noise in my head, recognize my own worth and go for what glows me up.

 

jayne nelson (SHE/HER)
BOARD SECRETARY
licensed esthetician/business owner | grace expert skin care

What was your first concert? My first “real concert” was Cyndi Lauper, I was 13. I’ve seen hundreds of live shows since and live music continues to be one of my favorite ways to spend time! 

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? Tough question! All time favorites that have made a huge impact within me are India.Arie and Sarah McLachlan. More recently I'd say Billie Eilish is my favorite. 

What empowers you? I gain encouragement and light from simple moments in connection with others. Finding common ground is uplifting. I am further empowered by surrounding myself with strong and vulnerable women.

 

ERICA MILSTEIN (SHE/HER)
BOARD MEMBER
RETIRED ATTORNEY

What was your first concert? Cheap Trick in about 1979.  I caught one of Rick Nielsen’s guitar picks!

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? This is SO hard because there are so many woman-identifying artists over so many years that mean so much to me!  But one that resonated with me was Lesley Gore, a popular singer in the early 1960s best known for hits like "It's My Party." During a time when societal expectations for young women were especially strict her music often reflected these expectations, yet she was semi-openly living her best life—very subversive for her time! 

What empowers you? The love of family and friends primarily.  I recharge by getting outdoors every chance I can.  The beauty and serenity of nature and sharing that with wildlife is truly a gift to us all. 

 

BRIAUNNA CISNEROS (SHE/HER)
BOARD MEMBER
MUSIC EDUCATOR
| FOLSOM-CORDOVA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

What was your first concert? Papa Roach, front row against the barriers, 13 years old, in Fairbanks, Alaska where I lived at the time.

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? Joan Jett. I’ve looked up to her since I was 10 years old. I’d love to meet her one day.

What empowers you? Writing about things that are important to me. Whether it be music, a research paper, or a dissertation, writing is an important part of my life. 

 

VANESSA NEVES-JACKSON (SHE/HER)
BOARD MEMBER
MUSIC PRODUCER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER
| AUDACY SACRAMENTO

What was your first concert? Technically, it was Barney in the early ‘90s (thanks mom). I can’t remember which came first for me: it was either the Jonas Brothers or Sade, both at Arco Arena.

Who is your favorite woman-identifying musician? Sarah the Illstrumentalist (IG: @sarah2ill), Aaliyah, Kehlani, Amy Winehouse, Tori Kelly, Toni Braxton, SWV, TLC…I can go on!

What empowers you? I feel most empowered when I’m building something that creates real access and visibility for others. Supporting and connecting women behind the scenes in music, and seeing that impact in real time, drives everything I do.