The Runaways And The Hallway Outside The Venue Where One Of Them Said, “We Changed Things”

April 3, 2025

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden light on the bustling streets of Hollywood, the energy outside the venue crackled like the excited chatter of fans waiting to see their favorite band. Inside, the air was thick with anticipation as The Runaways, a groundbreaking all-girl rock band, tuned their instruments. They were about to perform in front of an audience that had come to admire not only their music but also their fierce spirit. In the hallway just outside the stage, Joan Jett leaned against the cool wall, her heart racing not just from the thrill of the moment, but from the weight of everything that had led them here.

With their wild hairstyles and leather jackets, The Runaways were unlike any other band at the time. They were young, talented, and determined to break through a music industry that often overlooked female musicians. As Joan looked down the dimly lit hallway, she could remember the challenges they faced—those moments of doubt when not everyone believed in them, when critics called them a “girl band” rather than artists. But as she glanced at her bandmates, their faces lit with excitement and confidence, she felt a spark of resolve. This was their moment, and they had worked hard to claim it.

When the band finally stepped onto the stage, the roar of the crowd was deafening. Joan, Lita, Cherie, and the rest of The Runaways filled the air with songs that echoed their dreams and struggles. They were not just performing; they were making a statement. Each chord played was a declaration that girls could rock just as hard as boys. As Joan sang the powerful lyrics of “Cherry Bomb,” the energy in the room shifted. It wasn’t just about music anymore; it was about empowerment and resilience. They were changing the narrative of what it meant to be a female musician in a male-dominated world.

After the electrifying performance, the band retreated to that same hallway, still buzzing from the adrenaline. It was then that Joan uttered the words that would resonate with them forever: “We changed things.” Those simple words held an ocean of meaning. They weren’t just a band anymore; they were pioneers, showing young girls everywhere that they could pursue their passions, break barriers, and be heard. Joan’s voice trembled with emotion as she realized how far they had come together. They had transformed the music scene, and in doing so, they had changed their own lives.

In the years that followed, The Runaways inspired countless young musicians, proving that passion and perseverance could open doors that seemed impossible to breach. The impact of that one performance rippled through the industry, encouraging other groups to rise up and shout their truths. Joan Jett herself went on to have a successful solo career, cementing her legacy as a rock icon. But it was that moment in the hallway, a simple yet profound reflection, that marked the beginning of a movement.

To this day, the story of The Runaways serves as a beacon of hope for anyone chasing their dreams. Their journey reminds us that while the road may be tough, resilience, talent, and a belief in oneself can lead to remarkable changes. Music isn’t just notes and lyrics; it’s a force that has the power to uplift, inspire, and transform lives. And Joan was right—they had changed things, not just for themselves, but for generations to come.