Joan Jett and the Blackhearts: American Rock 'n' Roll Rebels

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts are an American rock band that forged a permanent legacy by blending punk energy with classic rock and roll hooks. The group, fronted by the iconic guitarist and vocalist Joan Jett, achieved monumental commercial success with their 1981 album I Love Rock 'n' Roll.

Early career

Joan Jett first gained attention in the mid-1970s as a co-founder and guitarist for the all-female punk band The Runaways. After that band dissolved in 1979, Jett pursued a solo career, facing rejection from numerous major labels. She eventually recorded her debut album, Joan Jett, with producer Kenny Laguna, releasing it independently on their own Blackheart Records label in 1980.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 1981 with the album I Love Rock 'n' Roll, released through Boardwalk Records. The title track, a cover of a song by The Arrows, became a cultural phenomenon, spending seven consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982. The album itself was certified platinum and cemented the band's status as rock superstars.

Key tracks

I Love Rock 'n' Roll — This definitive cover became the band's signature anthem and a multi-platinum selling single.

Bad Reputation — The title track from her 1980 solo album became a rallying cry and a staple of her live sets.

Crimson and Clover — Their rocked-out cover of the Tommy James and the Shondells hit reached number seven on the Billboard chart in 1982.

I Hate Myself for Loving You — This hard-rocking 1988 single from the album Up Your Alley peaked at number eight on the Hot 100.

Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah) — Another successful cover, this Gary Glitter song became a radio hit and concert favorite.

The band continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including Album (1983) and Glorious Results of a Misspent Youth (1984). Joan Jett also collaborated with artists like Paul Westerberg of The Replacements and appeared in the 1987 film Light of Day. In 2015, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts were rightfully inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

For fans of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' brand of straightforward, high-energy rock, similar artists include The Runaways This was Jett's influential all-female punk band that launched her career. Also explore The Donnas This all-female group carries a similar spirit of catchy, riff-driven rock and roll. Listen to The Pretenders Chrissie Hynde fronts another iconic band blending rock with punk and pop sensibilities. Check out Green Day This punk-pop powerhouse shares a commitment to anthemic, rebellious songwriting.

The music of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts maintains a constant presence on the airwaves, featured prominently on classic rock FM stations, alternative rock radio stations, and dedicated online rock radio streams. Their timeless hits are a core component of any rock format's playlist.

You can hear the powerful rock anthems of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their music or listen to your favorite classics through our curated selection of independent music radio stations.