The Runaways And The Fight With Their Label Over A Cover Song They Never Wanted To Do

April 2, 2025

The sound of electric guitars blared through the small rehearsal space as The Runaways gathered for another jam session. It was the summer of 1976, and the young band was buzzing with energy. Composed mostly of teenage girls, they had ignited a fire in the rock music world with hits like “Cherry Bomb.” But behind the thrill of creating music, a storm was brewing. Their record label had a big idea: they wanted the band to cover a classic song that none of the girls were excited about. It felt less like a creative opportunity and more like a chain holding them back.

As the band huddled together, the atmosphere shifted. Joan Jett, the fiery and determined guitarist, voiced what everyone was thinking. “This isn’t us! We can write our own songs! Why should we sing something we don’t feel?” The other members nodded in agreement, a mix of frustration and defiance simmering in the room. They had spent countless hours crafting their unique sound and pouring their hearts into original lyrics. The thought of being forced to perform a song that didn’t resonate with them felt like a betrayal of their artistry.

Days turned into weeks, and despite their protests, the label wouldn’t budge. They insisted that a cover would bring in more sales and exposure, prioritizing profit over the band’s passion. The Runaways were torn between obeying the demands of their label and staying true to themselves. It felt like a battle for their identity as artists. But instead of falling apart, the girls rallied together. They decided to stand firm. They wrote a letter to the label, expressing their feelings, love for their own music, and the desire to create art that spoke to them authentically.

Finally, the day came for the showdown. The band members marched into the label’s office, their hearts pounding but their spirits high. Joan stood at the front, her voice unwavering as she spoke about the importance of authenticity. “We’re not just a product. We’re artists, and we want to express ourselves in ways that matter.” As she spoke, the passion in her words ignited a fire within her bandmates. They all chimed in, sharing their dreams and aspirations as musicians. It was a powerful moment, filled with determination and hope.

In the end, their resolve paid off. After what felt like an eternity of negotiations, the label finally relented. They agreed to let The Runaways record their own original songs instead of the cover. It was a lesson in courage and standing up for what they believed in. The band went on to write and record more music that truly reflected their spirit, and they gained newfound respect from fans and the industry alike.

Looking back, that moment became a defining point in their careers. The challenge of fighting for creative freedom forged an even stronger bond among the band members. They learned that true success is not just about fame or sales, but about staying true to oneself and creating art that resonates deeply. The Runaways continued to rock the world with their original music, reminding themselves and others that resilience and authenticity can conquer even the toughest obstacles.