The Runaways And The Secret Signal They Used To Deal With Sexist Interviewers

April 3, 2025

In the heart of the 1970s, a group of fierce young girls burst onto the rock music scene, ready to challenge the norms of a male-dominated industry. They called themselves The Runaways, a name that spoke to their rebellious spirit and desire for freedom. Among them was Joan Jett, a girl with a wild mane of black hair and a heart set on rocking the world. She was a dreamer who loved music deeply, but she quickly discovered that being a girl in a rock band came with its own set of challenges, especially when it came to interviews.

As they started to gain fame, The Runaways faced a slew of sexist interviewers who often focused on their looks rather than their talent. Some journalists asked ridiculous questions about their love lives or how they felt about being “girl musicians.” Frustrated but determined, the girls decided to create a secret signal to help each other cope during these uncomfortable moments. They would touch their hair or adjust their clothes—a simple gesture that meant, “Let’s change the subject!” It became a lifeline in the chaotic world of interviews, reminding them to steer the conversation back to their music and passion instead of their gender.

One day, while doing an interview in a dimly lit room filled with smoke and noise, Joan felt her heart racing as the interviewer leaned closer, intent on asking another absurd question about her outfit. In that moment, she caught Lita Ford’s eye, who subtly touched her collar. Joan instantly understood the signal. With newfound strength, she redirected the conversation, passionately explaining the meaning behind their latest song, “Cherry Bomb.” Miraculously, the interviewer began to listen, captivated by the raw energy and talent that The Runaways brought to the table.

This small but mighty gesture of solidarity transformed not only their interviews but also how they viewed themselves as artists. They realized that they had the power to reclaim their narrative. Each time they used that secret signal, they grew more confident, and the music that flowed from them became a powerful rebellion against the stereotypes of the time. Their songs resonated with young girls everywhere, empowering them to embrace their passions despite the odds.

With each album released and every concert performed, The Runaways paved the way for future generations of female musicians. While they faced criticism and adversity, their secret signal was a reminder of their strength and resilience. They showed the world that girls could rock just as hard, if not harder, than their male counterparts. Their legacy left an indelible mark on the music industry, proving that passion and determination can break down even the most entrenched barriers.

In the years that followed, Joan Jett and the other members of The Runaways became icons, not only for their music but also for their bravery in the face of sexism. They inspired countless young women to pick up a guitar, to sing their own songs, and to never back down just because of their gender. The secret signal remained a cherished memory among the band members, a little reminder of their journey from girls in a band to rock legends, encouraging all who heard their stories to embrace their voice and chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.