Reformed band dedicates single to LGBT+ community

The 1980s girl group Zenana has made a remarkable comeback after being rediscovered through their old records found in a second-hand shop. The band, consisting of Anita Gabrielle Tedder, Penny Griffiths, and Ruth Elder, originally formed in Milton Keynes in 1983 and disbanded in 1987. In 2024, they have released a new single to honor the LGBT+ community, showcasing their commitment to love and acceptance. The song, titled 'Touch of a Woman,' was released on Valentine's Day, featuring the lyrics 'Give me some love of a different kind. ' This choice of release date highlights the band's dedication to celebrating love in all its forms. Ms. Tedder reflected on the time she wrote the song in 1985, describing it as a 'scary and secretive' period for those who were openly gay. She expressed pride in how the band was ahead of their time, paving the way for future generations. During an interview for a heritage project on queer history, a young woman remarked, '40 years before Chappell Roan, there was Zenana,' which resonated deeply with Ms. Tedder. The bond between the band members is strong, and Anita has been in a loving partnership with her manager, Steph Daniels, for 44 years. They reside in Wootton, Bedfordshire, and have shared many experiences together. Both former teachers, they chose not to come out at work, instead advocating for gay rights in London, where they felt more secure. Ms. Tedder shared that many fans have recently reached out to express how significant Zenana was in providing a positive representation for gay individuals during a time when such visibility was rare. The band performed live at the Bedfringe festival in July 2024, captivating audiences with their powerful performances. Dressed in black outfits, they sang passionately into microphones, showcasing their love for music and their fans. The anticipation for their new single 'Touch of a Woman' is high, as it will be available on all streaming platforms on February 14. Ms. Tedder praised Penny for her courageous vocals, stating that it was a significant moment for the band. She expressed gratitude for the support from her bandmates, emphasizing the importance of love in all its forms. The band hopes that their new track will achieve similar success to their previous hit 'Witches,' which has garnered 31,000 streams on Spotify since its re-release in 2023. The vinyl remix of 'Witches' sold out quickly, prompting the band to produce a second print. Ms. Tedder fondly recalled how their lyrics would inspire people to dance and celebrate in gay clubs, making their music anthems of love and acceptance. She acknowledged the progress made since the 1980s, reflecting on the double lives many led back then. The world has changed significantly, and Zenana is proud to be part of that transformation.