The Runaways And The Time They Played An Entire Set Without Monitors—Relying Only On Instinct

April 3, 2025

It was a chilly evening in 1976, and the air buzzed with excitement in the dimly lit club where The Runaways were set to perform. Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, and the rest of the band were backstage, their hearts racing with a mix of nerves and adrenaline. They had been rehearsing for weeks, but tonight was different. An unexpected malfunction had knocked out their stage monitors, the very speakers that helped musicians hear themselves play. Without them, the girls were left with only their instincts and a shared passion for rock music.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared, the band huddled together, exchanging determined glances. They took a deep breath and stepped onto the stage, their spirits unyielded by the technical setback. The moment they struck the first chord, something magical happened. Relying solely on the vibrations they felt through their instruments and the energy of the audience, they began their set. The music surged through them like a powerful wave, connecting the girls not only to each other but also to the fans who were there to experience the show.

With every song, the band members exchanged knowing looks, instinctively adjusting to each other’s rhythms. Joan’s fierce guitar riffs, Lita’s soaring solos, and Cherie’s powerful vocals blended into a raw, electrifying sound that transcended anything they had ever played before. The absence of monitors forced them to rely on their years of practice and their deep understanding of one another as musicians. It didn’t just feel like a performance; it felt like an intimate conversation, a shared experience where every note mattered. The audience was captivated, swaying and singing along, swept up in the moment’s authenticity.

As the final chord rang out and the cheers erupted from the crowd, the band felt an overwhelming surge of triumph. They had faced a challenge head-on and emerged victorious. That night was more than just a concert; it was a pivotal moment in their journey as musicians. They learned that sometimes, relying on instinct and each other can lead to unexpected brilliance. This performance became a cherished memory, a story they would recount for years to come, reminding them of the power of unity and resilience.

In the following months, word of their incredible instinct-driven set spread beyond that tiny club. The Runaways gained a reputation not just as a band but as pioneers in rock music, inspiring countless young girls to pick up guitars and dream of stages. This moment not only solidified their bond but also transformed their careers, giving them the confidence to push boundaries and write music that spoke to the hopes and struggles of their generation.

Looking back, Joan often said that playing without monitors taught them the essence of being true artists. It showed them that music was about feeling, about connection, and about sharing joy with others, no matter the circumstances. As they continued to make music and tour the world, they carried that lesson with them, knowing that sometimes, the most beautiful moments arise from the unexpected.