She is best recognized for her involvement in the bands Oh-OK, Hetch Hetchy and Flash to Bang Time.

Along with vocalist Linda Hopper and drummer David Pierce, the group performed several songs live at the 40 Watt Club.

[2] Stipe later formed Hetch Hetchy with boyfriend and fellow musician Jay Totty in 1988, with her serving as lead vocalist and bass guitarist.

Hetch Hetchy's debut album Swollen was released in 1990 and marked a musical departure from the band's previous recordings.

A new Hetch Hetchy record was in development but Stipe and Totty broke off their relationship, effectively ending the group in 1991.