All The Babes
Kate Pierson
Also known as Catherine Elizabeth Pierson, Catherine Pierson
Career
Active 1979 – present
Biography
About Kate Pierson
Musician Kate Pierson is an American singer and lyricist, best known as a founding member of the B-52s. She co-founded the band in 1979 alongside the late guitarist Ricky Wilson, vocalist Cindy Wilson, drummer Keith Strickland, and lead vocalist Fred Schneider. In the early years, Pierson was the main keyboard player and performed on a keyboard bass during live shows, a role usually filled by a bass guitar player. That choice, plus her distinctive wide-ranging voice, became a trademark of the B-52s' unique sound.
Born in Weehawken, New Jersey, on April 27, 1948, she stands 5'1" with red hair and blue eyes. Pierson is openly bisexual and has also collaborated with artists like the Ramones, Iggy Pop, and R.E.M. She possesses a mezzo-soprano vocal range.
Record
Profile details
Personal
- Years Active
- 1979-present (started around 31 years old; 47 years active)
- Birthplace
- Weehawken, New Jersey, United States
- Ethnicity
- Caucasian
- Sexuality
- Bisexual
Body
- Hair Color
- Red
- Eye Color
- Blue
- Boobs
- Real/Natural
Extra
- Instagram Followers
- 54k (as of March 2026)
Frequently asked
What instruments does Kate Pierson play?
She plays guitar, bass, and various keyboard instruments, and in the B-52s' early years she used a keyboard bass during live performances.
How has Kate Pierson's musical role been described?
Her use of a keyboard bass, instead of a traditional bass guitar, and her wide-ranging singing voice are noted as trademarks of the B-52s' sound.
Did you know
- Kate Pierson co-founded the B-52s in 1979 with four other members, including the late Ricky Wilson.
- Her performance style on keyboard bass distinguished the band from contemporaries who typically used a bass guitarist.
- She has collaborated with the Ramones, Iggy Pop, and R.E.M.
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