The Runaways And The Feedback Loop That Never Ends

April 2, 2025

When music is your passion, sometimes it feels like a runaway train that you can’t stop, no matter how hard you try. For Joan Jett, a young girl growing up in the 1970s, that train started to pick up speed when she co-founded a groundbreaking all-girl rock band called The Runaways. The world wasn’t ready for them. In an industry dominated by men, the girls faced unfair challenges, but their love for music and determination to be heard only fueled their fire. With every guitar riff and electric chorus, they defied the odds and blazed a trail for future female musicians.

The Runaways burst onto the scene with their catchy hit “Cherry Bomb,” a bold anthem that captured the spirit of youthful rebellion. But behind the electrifying performances and roaring fans, the pressure to succeed was immense. The girls were barely teenagers, yet they were thrust into the spotlight, touring the world and navigating an industry that was often harsh and unwelcoming. Joan felt the weight of expectations on her shoulders, but she was resilient. Each time they stepped off the stage, she reminded herself of the power of their music and the impact they were making, not just as a band but as pioneers.

However, the fame came with a heavy price. The Runaways eventually fell apart, each member struggling with their own path. Joan dealt with heartbreak as the dream she had fought so hard for seemed to crumble. But instead of letting this setback define her, she channeled her pain into her music. It was a turning point in her life, one that sparked a deep-rooted desire to keep going, no matter how tough things got. Joan realized that music wasn’t just an escape, it was her lifeline—a connection to herself and to the world.

After The Runaways disbanded, Joan forged ahead, reinventing herself as a solo artist. The lessons learned from her time with the band remained etched in her heart, and she poured those experiences into her work. With each song, she rediscovered her voice, crafting anthems of empowerment and resilience. Her hit song “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” became a massive success, echoing the sentiments of a generation yearning for authenticity. It was proof that the feedback loop of her struggles and triumphs could lead to something beautiful.

Joan’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself. She became an inspiration not only for young girls but for anyone who dared to dream big in the face of adversity. The music industry may have tried to box her in, but she broke free and continued to push boundaries. By standing tall, she showed that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll lives on, and it’s a spirit that encourages all of us to embrace our unique voices—no matter the odds.

Looking back, Joan Jett knows that her story is more than just about music; it’s about the strength we find in our struggles. The Runaways may have faced an unending feedback loop of challenges, but they transformed these experiences into a melody of resilience that still resonates today. Every chord she plays is a reminder that even if we feel like we’re running away from our problems, we can also run towards a brighter future, one song at a time.