The Gossip formed in 1999 as a three piece pop–punk act in Searcy, AR. The band, lead by vocalist Beth Ditto, soon relocated to Olympia, WA (and later to Portland, OR) where they've released a string of albums via Kill Rock Stars. The band's membership has shifted since its inception, not featuring guitarist Brace Paine and drummer Hannah Blilie.

Adopting a danceable, often soul–influenced style of garage punk the the Gossip have toured with bands like the White Stripes, Sleater–Kinney and Le Tigre. The band has served as icons for the gay and lesbian indie rock community due so high profile articles on Ditto in magazines like Out and The Advocate.