An influential figure in industrial music, known for her avant-garde and provocative artistry, Cosey Fanni Tutti continues to captivate audiences. Born Christine Carol Newby in 1951, she co-founded the experimental collective Coum Transmissions, sparking controversy with their groundbreaking exhibition "Prostitution" in 1976. This exhibit, filled with explicit photography and unsettling artifacts, drew sharp criticism, including a remark from UK Parliament labeling her as a “wrecker of civilization.” Subsequently, she joined forces with Genesis P-Orridge and Peter Christopherson to form Throbbing Gristle, an iconic band renowned for its unflinching exploration of dark themes. After Throbbing Gristle disbanded in 1981, Tutti partnered with Chris Carter to create Chris & Cosey, producing numerous albums over the decades. Her memoir, "Art Sex Music," offers profound insights into her tumultuous career, while her recent work delves into the lives of other revolutionary women.
Emerging in the early 1970s, Christine Carol Newby, later known as Cosey Fanni Tutti, became a pivotal force in both performance art and industrial music. As a founding member of Coum Transmissions, she challenged societal norms through confrontational art forms. The infamous "Prostitution" exhibition not only showcased explicit imagery but also incorporated visceral elements like used medical items, creating a sensory experience that polarized public opinion. This daring approach laid the groundwork for her future endeavors. In 1975, alongside Genesis P-Orridge, Peter Christopherson, and Chris Carter, she established Throbbing Gristle. Their compositions, crafted from samples and noise, tackled taboo subjects such as Nazi atrocities and personal trauma, reinforcing their status as pioneers of underground music.
Following Throbbing Gristle's dissolution, Tutti embarked on new musical ventures with Chris Carter. Under the moniker Chris & Cosey, they embraced synthpop, releasing seventeen studio albums that further explored their unique soundscapes. Beyond music, Tutti authored "Art Sex Music," a candid memoir recounting her experiences navigating the complex intersections of art, sexuality, and identity. Expanding her literary repertoire, she penned "Re-Sisters," celebrating two extraordinary women—Delia Derbyshire, a trailblazing electronic composer, and Margery Kempe, a medieval mystic. These works underscore her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices within the arts.
Tutti is set to release her latest album, titled "2t2," in June, inviting fans to delve deeper into her creative process. Her willingness to engage with admirers provides a rare opportunity to understand the origins of her audacious artistry. Whether discussing her role in Sylvester’s disco hit "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" or sharing anecdotes from her time at an art commune in Hull, Tutti promises intriguing revelations. Fans can submit questions ahead of the deadline on May 13th, with responses slated for publication later in May.
Beyond her contributions to music and literature, Cosey Fanni Tutti stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. Through her relentless pursuit of artistic truth, she has reshaped perceptions and inspired countless others. Her upcoming album signals another chapter in her storied career, promising to challenge and inspire anew. By continuing to explore the boundaries of creativity, Tutti ensures her legacy endures, resonating across generations.