Ariane Daniela Forster, widely recognized by her stage name Ari Up, was a prominent German singer celebrated for her role in the influential English post-punk band The Slits. She co-founded the band in 1976 at just 14 years old alongside drummer Palmolive, quickly gaining traction as they toured as the opening act for the iconic Clash. Up's deep-seated passion for reggae infused the band's sound with a distinctive "jungly" dub style. Renowned for her vibrant personality, she became a standout figure in the punk scene, marked by her striking hairstyles and eclectic stage attire.
Ari Up made a notable appearance in the film "Rude Boy" in 1980, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the punk movement alongside the Clash. Her dynamic performances with The Slits in 1977 were also immortalized in "The Punk Rock Movie," a documentary showcasing various punk acts at The Roxy.
After the band's initial disbandment in 1981, Up reunited with fellow member Tessa Pollitt in 2005, bringing in new musicians to reform The Slits. This revival led to the release of the EP "Revenge of the Killer Slits" in 2006. Tragically, Ari Up's life was cut short when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, and she passed away on October 20, 2010, in Los Angeles at the age of 48, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
