The Runaways And The Story That Never Needed Permission

April 2, 2025

In the heart of Los Angeles in the 1970s, a group of girls was about to change the music scene forever. They called themselves The Runaways, a name that perfectly captured their spirit of rebellion and freedom. At a time when rock bands were dominated by men, these teenage girls were determined to carve out their own space in a world that often told them they didn’t belong. With Joan Jett on guitar, Lita Ford on lead guitar, Cherie Currie as the lead singer, along with Sandy West and Jackie Fox, they combined their love for music with a fierce desire to be heard, and they didn’t ask for permission.

The journey wasn’t easy. They faced countless challenges, from doubting parents to dismissive record executives. Many thought it was absurd for a group of girls to play rock music, but that only fueled their passion. Joan recalled the early days when they would practice relentlessly in their garage, dreaming of the day they would perform on a big stage. Their hard work paid off when they released their debut album in 1976, which included the iconic hit “Cherry Bomb.” Suddenly, they weren’t just another girl band; they were at the forefront of a revolution, inspiring girls everywhere to pick up guitars and sing loud.

Each performance was electric, and the girls quickly gained a devoted fan base, but the pressure to succeed was immense. Fame had its price. Cherie struggled with the demands of being in the spotlight, and the band faced constant scrutiny. While Joan Jett emerged as a strong voice and fearless leader, she also had to fight the stereotypes that came with being a female guitarist in rock and roll. The Runaways were more than just a band; they were a symbol of resilience, each girl pushing through personal and professional obstacles to pursue their dreams.

Despite the challenges, the Runaways released several albums and toured extensively, leaving a mark on the music industry that resonated long after their breakup in 1979. Each member went on to pursue solo careers. Joan Jett’s journey was particularly remarkable; she became a rock icon, known for hits like “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” and established herself as a powerful advocate for female musicians. Lita Ford and Cherie Currie also found success, showing that the spirit of The Runaways lived on in their individual endeavors. They proved that even if a story doesn’t follow a perfect script, it can still inspire and uplift.

Looking back, the legacy of The Runaways is not just in the music they created, but in the doors they opened for future generations of female artists. They became a shining example of how passion and perseverance can overcome adversity. Their story is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful narratives are those that arise without permission — stories fueled by talent, determination, and the unwavering belief that one’s voice matters. The Runaways not only changed the sound of rock music; they carved out a space where girls could dream big, showing that the stage is set for anyone ready to take it.