The Runaways And The Punk Band That Challenged Them Onstage—And Got Blown Off The Stage

April 3, 2025

It was a crisp evening in 1976 when The Runaways, a groundbreaking all-girl rock band, took the stage at a small venue in Los Angeles. The energy pulsed through the crowd as Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, and their bandmates prepared to play songs from their self-titled debut album. The excitement in the air was electric, but little did they know that a rival punk band, the Germs, had their own plans for the night. As The Runaways launched into their set with fierce guitar riffs and powerful vocals, the Germs watched from the side, eager to steal the spotlight.

With their aggressive punk style, the Germs believed that they could outshine The Runaways. Fueled by youthful bravado, they decided to make their move. Midway through The Runaways’ performance, the Germs jumped on stage, brandishing their own instruments. The crowd gasped, caught between confusion and amusement as the two bands faced off in a battle for musical supremacy. The energy shifted. Some fans cheered for The Runaways, while others were drawn to the raw intensity of the Germs. It was a moment that could have easily turned chaotic, but Joan Jett and her bandmates held their ground.

As the Germs attempted to drown out The Runaways with thunderous chords and wild lyrics, the girls didn’t falter. Instead, they took it as a challenge, igniting a fire within them. With a fierce determination, Joan signaled to her bandmates. They locked eyes, each understanding what they needed to do. The Runaways cranked up their performance, pouring their hearts into every note. Joan’s voice soared over the noise, while Lita’s guitar riffs sliced through the air like a sharp knife. The crowd began to shift, rallying behind The Runaways as they delivered a powerful rendition of “Cherry Bomb,” a song that embodied their spirit and resilience.

The clash of the two bands was electric, but it soon became clear that The Runaways were winning the hearts of the audience. The Germs, despite their chaos, couldn’t match the polished energy and passion radiating from the girls on stage. In a matter of minutes, the tension melted into applause as The Runaways finished their set with a triumphant anthem that echoed through the venue. The crowd erupted, drowning out the Germs and applauding the girls who had stood tall against the unexpected challenge.

That night marked a pivotal moment in The Runaways’ career. With their fierce performance, they not only silenced their challengers but also cemented their reputation as trailblazers in a male-dominated rock scene. The media buzzed with excitement, and word of their resilience spread quickly, drawing in new fans and solidifying their place in music history. Joan Jett, especially, saw her confidence soar. She had faced down a punk band threatening to overshadow her and emerged not just victorious, but more motivated than ever to push the boundaries of rock music.

In the years that followed, The Runaways would go on to inspire countless musicians and young girls everywhere. Their story became a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that no challenge is too great when you pour your heart into what you love. Joan Jett’s journey continued, leading her to become a legendary icon in the music industry. That night in L.A. was a defining moment that not only showcased their talent but also highlighted the indomitable spirit of rock and roll—a reminder that true passion can overcome any obstacle.