The Runaways And The Emotional Pact They Made To Never Go “Pop”

April 2, 2025

In the heart of the 1970s, when the world was buzzing with the sounds of rock ‘n’ roll, five teenage girls stood defiant against the mainstream music scene. They were The Runaways, a band filled with energy and ambition, determined to carve their own path in a male-dominated industry. Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, Sandy West, and Jackie Fox were not just a group of friends; they were a sisterhood, ready to break the mold. However, the pressures of the music industry were overwhelming. Record companies wanted them to create catchy, bubblegum pop songs that veered away from their hard rock roots. In response to these pressures, the girls gathered in their shared hotel room after a grueling rehearsal. That night, they made an emotional pact. They promised each other to never go “pop,” to always stay true to their rock ‘n’ roll spirit.

The pact was not just a casual statement; it was a deep-seated commitment to themselves and to the music they loved. Joan, with her fierce black leather jacket, looked around at her bandmates and felt a surge of passion. “Pop isn’t who we are,” she declared, her voice steady amidst the uncertainty. Cherie, with her wild blonde hair and sparkling eyes, nodded in agreement, her heart swelling with pride. “We’re more than the charts,” she replied. The girls shared a moment of silent understanding, united by their shared dream of authenticity. They felt a wave of exhilaration wash over them as they committed to fighting against the expectations of the industry. This single moment solidified not only their bond but also the essence of The Runaways.

Over the next few years, the girls unleashed their raw energy in concerts across the country, capturing the hearts of fans with their powerful riffs and unapologetic lyrics. They became known for hits like “Cherry Bomb,” which unleashed their rebellious spirit and showcased their talent. But even with all their success, the pressure never really left. They would often hear critics dismiss them as nothing more than a gimmick. Yet, every time they stepped on stage, they remembered their pact and what it meant to them. Their music wasn’t just a way to earn money; it was about showing the world that girls could rock just as hard, if not harder, than boys.

As the years passed, the girls faced challenges that tested their friendship and their resolve. The strain of touring and the weight of expectations took their toll. The band eventually disbanded, and each member sought her own path. Joan Jett went on to build a legendary solo career, proving that she could thrive independently. Lita Ford became a heavy metal icon, while Cherie fought through personal struggles to find her voice again. Though their paths diverged, the bond they forged through that emotional pact remained strong. They had shared not just the highs of success but also the lows of heartache and disappointment, always holding onto their promise to stay true to their roots.

Years later, when they reunited for a special concert, the memories of that night came rushing back. The audience roared with approval as they played their old favorites, and the energy in the air was electric. After the show, as they stood backstage, Joan and Cherie reminisced about their youthful dreams and fragile promises. “We did it, didn’t we?” Cherie said, her eyes shining with tears of joy. “We never went pop.” Joan smiled back, feeling a sense of satisfaction wash over her. “We stayed true to ourselves, and that’s what matters most,” she replied. Their pact had not only shaped their careers but also forged friendships that could withstand the test of time.

The legacy of The Runaways continues to inspire generations of young musicians. Their story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the importance of staying true to one’s self. They showed the world that music is not just about fitting into a box, but about expressing who you are and what you believe in. As they moved forward in their lives, each girl carried a piece of that promise in her heart, proving that true artists always rise above the noise of conformity.