When it comes to influence, especially on female rock musicians, The Runaways almost always get a mention and rightfully so.
Serving as a launchpad for Joan Jett and Lita Ford, The Runaways released four studio albums and the killer Live In Japan live album from 1976-1978. However, everyone’s go-to song for the band is “Cherry Bomb” from their self-titled debut album, which was released 45 years ago today (June 1.)
The thing is this iconic outfit is so much more than just one song. In honor of the anniversary of The Runaways, here are 10 other songs by The Runaways everyone should know.
“School Days”
If you’re a fan of the movie Detroit Rock City, you likely recognize this track from the film’s soundtrack. If you’ve never seen Detroit Rock City, please enjoy this rebellious track from the band’s third studio release Waitin’ For The Night.
“You Drive Me Wild”
In case you forgot, The Runaways weren’t afraid to push the sexual envelope. If “Cherry Bomb” is exhibit A, consider “You Drive Me Wild” exhibit B.
“American Nights”
The bravado of The Runaways as a band can be described in this lyric from “American Nights”: “Cause we’re the Queens of Noise, the answer to your dreams.” PERFECTION!
“Dead End Justice”
A kitschy tune about being hauled off to juvie, this song is like a mini two-act play with a spoken word part in the middle. Did we mention it was kitschy?
“Waitin’ For The Night”
Ballads were few and far between for The Runaways, but out of the tracks that could fall under that classification, “Waitin’ For The Night” is the best.
“Neon Angels on the Road to Ruin”
Featured on the band’s second studio release, “Neon Angels…” is great example of Cherie Currie and Joan Jett’s vocals providing a one-two punch.
“I Love Playin’ with Fire”
Remember that whole “sexual envelope” thing mentioned a few songs back? Welcome to exhibit C and one of the strongest songs in the band’s catalog.
“Take It or Leave It”
A great track with Jett on lead vocals and the perfect example of how potent Ford and Jett’s dulling guitars were in The Runaways.
“I Wanna Be Where The Boys Are”
Only featured on Live in Japan, this track is simply a force.
“Queens Of Noise”
The title track from the band’s second studio album, as badass as the studio version is, the live version is that much tougher.