Music
Music
Swan Song (2026) - Single
Groupie’s single “Swan Song” transforms anxiety into something powerful. Inspired by the agave plant’s rare “death bloom”, a final flowering that occurs at the end of its life, the song explores the tension between endings and new beginnings. Frontwoman Ashley Kossakowski was particularly drawn to the story of an agave plant in Chicago that grew a 38-foot bloom so forceful it shattered the glass ceiling above it, becoming a metaphor for breaking through anxiety, self-doubt, and the barriers we place around ourselves. Built on shimmering guitars, soaring melodies, and an unrelenting chorus, the song embraces transformation head-on, finding beauty in the moment something breaks open and begins again.
Watch the music video and read more on Talkhouse.
No Chaser (2023) - Single
Groupie’s single “No Chaser” is a fiery, propulsive anthem fueled by frustration over miscommunication in a relationship. Kossakowski delivers the biting line, “You’re wasting my time, I’d rather spend it on myself,” aimed at someone with a “straight to DVD smile and a straight to voicemail heart.” The track features Groupie’s most layered production yet, blending lush vocal harmonies, distorted guitars, dreamy synths, and a punk edge. Dive bar imagery weaves through both the lyrics and music video, while the plea, “Coddle me with honesty, it’s warmer than deceit,” paired with riff-heavy guitars and an infectious chorus, makes the song both relatable and irresistibly catchy.
Ephemeral (2021) - Debut LP
The album is a deep reflection of the fleeting nature of contentment, memories, and heroes, delving into the complex emotions that arise—where longing and nostalgia coexist with an appreciation for the present. Across 10 tracks, Groupie weaves anxiety-laden meditations on a society capable of delivering both pain and joy, curating an introspective journey through the ephemerality of life's most cherished moments. They honor their 70s NYC punk and riot grrrl roots with high-energy tracks like “Half Wave,” while also exploring a more experimental side with brooding, textured songs like “Waiting” and “Daleko.” The result is a dynamic blend of raw energy and thoughtful contemplation.
Read more on Talkhouse or in American Songwriter.
Validated (2018) - EP
Groupie’s EP Validated delves into the nuanced struggle for validation, from seeking recognition in the eyes of government to earning respect in personal relationships. The EP confronts the challenge of discussing validation, particularly for women, whose vulnerability is often misinterpreted as insecurity or weakness. Through its tracks, Validated raises key questions: What kinds of five-year plans define us as creative or intelligent? How do we quiet the intrusive thoughts telling us we’re not enough? It’s a deep exploration of the pressures and contradictions behind the desire to feel seen and valued.
Read more in the premiere in Paper Magazine.
“An invigorating collection of post-punk leaning tracks about identity, nostalgia, and female empowerment” - Pitchfork
“Raucous and addictive; endearing, impressive, and essential.” — AV Club
“Ashley Kossakowski has a voice born for Groupie’s brand of art-damaged rock. The singer and bassist for the NYC-based act has a perfect fusion of Slits-esque sing-song, Kim Gordon rasp, and Chrissie Hynde coo—like a more unimpressed version of Bully’s Alicia Bognanno.” — AV Club
“Daring, infectious” — Paper Magazine
