"I like stress," says Stephka Von Snatch (aka Stephanie Johnston), who proves it by keeping busy as the co-owner of the Surly Wench Pub, co-founder and emcee of the fantabulous Black Cherry Burlesque, and co-owner of the photography and design studio Skwid Inc. Her "partner in crime" is Kate Kaboom, aka Kate Miners. Johnston has lived in Tucson since she was a child, and toiled in rock bands and record stores. The Surly Wench, 424 N. Fourth Ave., is presenting Black Cherry Burlesque the first Friday of each month, including Sept. 2, with shows at 8 and 10 p.m. Tickets cost $10 for standing room and $20 for table seating. See tucsonburlesque.com for more details.
What was the first concert you ever saw?
The first concert I remember seeing was Louise Mandrell, Barbara's brown-haired sister. My 5-year-old mind was blown away. She shook my hand. I swore I wouldn't ever wash it, but my mom ended up making me after a day.
What are you listening to these days?
A variety—Spinnerette, The Dreadnoughts, Loretta Lynn, Lunachicks, Electric Wizard, the Distillers, Dolly Parton, the Goddamn Gallows, the Marvelettes.
What was the first album you owned?
The first album I owned that I picked out for myself was a Kenny Rogers record. The Gambler was so cool.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone seem to love, but you just don't get?
Anything with Auto-Tune. It's cheating.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
Lunachicks! I went to see them at some fest one year, but the time on the ticket was wrong, so I ended up missing their set. They broke up soon after. Lame.
Musically speaking, what is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Early '90s gangster rap—Eazy-E, N.W.A.
What song would you like to have played at your funeral?
Ice T's "Colors."
What band or artist changed your life, and how?
Madonna. Because she's Madonna.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
I think maybe The Distillers' Coral Fang. Maybe. Maybe not.
