The Runaways And The Summer Afternoon They Wrote Five Songs In One Go

April 2, 2025

The summer of 1976 was scorching, the kind of heat that made everything shimmer in the distance. But inside a small, crowded garage in Los Angeles, the air was electric. The Runaways, an all-girl rock band blazing trails in a male-dominated music scene, were about to make their mark. Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, Sandy West, and Jackie Fox sat surrounded by guitars, amplifiers, and sheet music scattered everywhere. They were restless, fueled by youthful energy and a desperate craving to create something extraordinary.

That afternoon, they decided to challenge themselves. Instead of just jamming, they would write five songs. The sunlight streamed through the garage door, casting a warm glow over their faces as they took turns sharing ideas. At first, it was chaotic—the girls were bubbling over with thoughts and melodies, trying to find a way to blend their different styles. Joan strummed her guitar furiously, adding a punk edge, while Lita’s electric riffs flew across the air like sparks. Sandy kept the beat steady, resembling the heartbeat of their creativity.

As inspiration flowed, songs began to take shape. Each one captured a piece of their youthful spirit, from the excitement of first love to the frustrations of growing up in a world that often underestimated them. Cherie’s powerful voice soared as she belted out lyrics that spoke of rebellion and freedom, while Jackie contributed catchy hooks that would stick in anyone’s mind. They laughed, sang, and pushed each other, feeding off the adrenaline and passion that filled the room. It felt like magic; every chord connected them deeper, weaving a tapestry of sound and emotion.

By the time the sun began to set, casting shadows that danced across their faces, they had done it. Five songs, all in one day! Exhausted but exhilarated, they sat in amazement, listening to the echoes of their hard work. Those songs would later define their debut album, marking a revolutionary moment not just for the band, but for female musicians everywhere. The Runaways became an anthem of empowerment, paving the way for future generations to break barriers in the music industry.

That summer afternoon was not just about writing songs; it was a pivotal moment in their lives. It showed them the power of resilience and camaraderie. It was a reminder that even when the world doubted them, they had each other and their music to fight back with. Years later, as they looked back on their journey, they realized that those songs had not only given them a voice but had also inspired countless young girls around the world to pick up instruments and chase their dreams. The Runaways had proven that music could change lives, starting with their own.