The Runaways And The Cover Shoot Where They Insisted On No Makeup

April 3, 2025

The day of the cover shoot for The Runaways dawned bright and clear, filled with a mixture of excitement and nerves. The five girls, all just teenagers, had taken the rock world by storm with their catchy songs and powerful performances. They were not just a band; they were a symbol of young women carving their paths in a male-dominated industry. But as they arrived at the studio, the girls felt something important was missing—something deeper than glam and glitz. They decided that for this shoot, they would go without any makeup, embracing their natural beauty and authenticity.

As the photographer set up the lights and the crew buzzed around them, Joan Jett, Cherie Currie, Lita Ford, Sandy West, and Jackie Fox gathered in a circle, their faces lit with determination. Joan, with her wild, black hair and fierce spirit, was the first to voice her thoughts. “We’re more than just pretty faces,” she said, her voice steady. “Let’s show the world who we really are.” The others nodded in agreement, feeling the weight of their decision. It wasn’t just about how they looked; it was about how they felt and the message they wanted to send to their fans.

As the camera clicked away, the girls posed with confidence, their bare faces glowing with youthful energy. This moment was a declaration of independence, a refusal to conform to the traditional standards of beauty that often overshadowed talent in the music industry. With every shot, they grew bolder, their smiles genuine and free. It was exhilarating for them to embrace their individuality, to be boldly themselves without the masks of makeup. They laughed, joked, and even danced a little, feeling liberated in their own skin.

When the photos were finally released, the response from fans and critics was overwhelming. People loved the raw and honest images of The Runaways. They weren’t just a band anymore; they were role models. The decision to forego makeup resonated with young girls everywhere, encouraging them to embrace their own natural beauty. The Runaways showed that girls could be fierce, talented, and authentic, all while rocking out on stage. This powerful message helped launch their careers to new heights and inspired a generation of future female artists who were eager to break away from traditional norms.

The cover shoot without makeup became a defining moment for The Runaways, solidifying their legacy as pioneers in rock music. Each girl carried the experience with her, understanding that true strength lay in being true to oneself. They learned that music and authenticity go hand in hand, and that their passion could pave the way for other young women to follow. Years later, as they looked back on that day, they knew they had not just captured a beautiful image but a profound message about resilience, courage, and the importance of being genuine.

In the end, The Runaways didn’t just change their own lives; they changed the landscape of rock music forever. By choosing to be real, they inspired countless others to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams. Their journey was a testament to the power of music, the importance of self-acceptance, and the beauty of being unapologetically oneself.