The Runaways And The Final Voicemail Joan Left For Sandy West

April 2, 2025

In the vibrant world of rock ‘n’ roll, the spirit of rebellion and the power of music often intertwine to create unforgettable moments. Among the bands that changed the landscape of music in the 1970s, The Runaways stood out as a group of young women who dared to challenge societal norms. At the center of it all was Joan Jett, a fierce guitarist and singer who radiated passion and talent. Alongside her bandmates, including the spirited drummer Sandy West, they made waves in a male-dominated industry, paving the way for future generations of female musicians.

One fateful day in 1990, Joan Jett stood in silence, her heart heavy with emotion. She knew she had to say goodbye to a dear friend who had left a significant mark on her life. Sandy West had passed away after a long battle with cancer, leaving Joan and the music world in mourning. In that moment, Joan picked up her phone and recorded a voicemail. She poured her heart into the message, reminiscing about their wild adventures, late-night jam sessions, and the unbreakable bond forged through their love of music. “Sandy, you were my sister, my rock,” she said, her voice trembling. “Together, we dared to dream bigger than the world expected.”

The voicemail was like a time capsule, capturing the essence of their friendship and the legacy they built together. Joan spoke of the excitement they felt as young girls performing in front of screaming crowds, feeling the adrenaline rush as they played their songs. She reflected on how, despite the challenges they faced as women in rock, they never let anyone tell them they couldn’t do it. Instead, they used their struggles to fuel their passion, turning their pain into powerful music that resonated with fans. Joan’s words were a tribute not only to Sandy but also to the unyielding spirit of The Runaways.

As time passed, Joan Jett transformed her grief into inspiration, using her platform to encourage young artists to chase their dreams. She made sure that Sandy’s memory lived on through her music. Joan continued to perform, reminding the world that The Runaways were not just a band but a movement—a testament to resilience and the power of friendship. She often spoke at concerts about the importance of believing in oneself and standing up for what you love, urging her fans to embrace their uniqueness, just as she and Sandy had done.

The impact of that voicemail lingered, a bittersweet reminder of the importance of cherishing our connections with loved ones. Joan carried Sandy’s spirit with her on stage, each strum of her guitar echoing their shared dreams and passions. In every note, there was a whisper of Sandy, encouraging Joan to keep pushing boundaries and inspiring others. Their story became one of hope, showing that even in the face of loss, music has the power to heal and uplift.

Years later, as Joan stood before thousands of fans, she felt Sandy’s presence enveloping her like a warm embrace. She had turned her pain into a passionate drive, a mission to uplift others through the universal language of music. Joan Jett had not only honored her friend’s memory but had also solidified her place as a rock icon, reminding everyone that real strength lies in vulnerability and that true friendship never fades away.