The Runaways And The Pain In Their Final Handshake Before Parting

April 3, 2025

The sun was beginning to set over the city, casting a warm golden light that felt misplaced in the heavy atmosphere of the moment. The Runaways, a band that had taken the world by storm in the late 1970s, stood in an empty rehearsal studio for what would be their last meeting. The walls echoed with the memories of their highs and lows—thundering guitar riffs, passionate vocals, and laughter that rippled through the air like music itself. But now, all of that was coming to an end. The four girls, who had been sisters in sound and spirit, faced each other with a mixture of sadness and strength, knowing they were about to part ways.

As they gathered around, Joan Jett, the fierce and determined leader of the group, glanced at the others: Lita Ford, the embodiment of rock and rebellion; Cherie Currie, with her radiant energy and dream-filled eyes; and Sandy West, whose drumming made their hearts beat like thunder. Each girl held a piece of the band’s story, a piece of their shared journey. They had fought against stereotypes, conquered stages, and created music that changed lives. But as they prepared to say goodbye, an ache filled the room, a bittersweet reminder that even the strongest bonds could be shaken by dreams that led them in different directions.

In that crucial moment, they stepped closer, hands reaching out toward one another. The handshake was more than just a gesture; it was a promise, an acknowledgment of everything they had accomplished and the love they would always carry in their hearts. Joan’s hand trembled slightly as she grasped Cherie’s, their fingers entwining as if they were trying to hold onto the fleeting moments of their shared existence. The handshake felt like a tight knot, brimming with the weight of unspoken words, tears unshed, and a shared sense of hope for the future. A deep breath filled the air as they each took their turn, feeling the warmth radiate from one to the other, as if trying to pass strength through the touch.

As they released, a deep silence fell over them, filled with the understanding that though they were parting, they would forever be a part of each other’s stories. Lita turned to the others with a smile, her voice filled with resolve, “We’ll all go on to do amazing things.” The words hung in the air, powerful in their simplicity. Joan nodded earnestly, “Let’s promise to keep rocking, no matter where we are.” Each girl felt that surge of passion, that inner fire that had driven them to break barriers and inspire others with their music. They knew this was not an end but a new beginning, like a song that would continue to play in their hearts, even if they were miles apart.

That final handshake not only marked the end of an era but also propelled them toward their personal journeys. Joan would go on to carve out a legendary solo career, defying odds and proving that she could shine even without the band. Lita would explore her own sound, cementing her place as a guitar legend. Cherie and Sandy found their paths as well, each holding on to the memories of wild nights on stage, screams from fans, and the sparkle of friendship that had lit their lives. Though their paths diverged, the bond they had forged as The Runaways would never be broken, each girl carrying a piece of that magic wherever they went.

Years later, when they looked back on that day, they would remember not just the pain of saying goodbye but the exhilaration of their shared dreams. They had dared to be different, to challenge the norms, and to follow their passions, igniting a fire that would inspire generations of young musicians. That last handshake, filled with emotions and promise, became a symbol of resilience and sisterhood in the face of change, and in their hearts, the music of The Runaways would always play on.