Joan Jett and the Blackhearts are one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, known for their high-energy performances, rebellious attitude, and unforgettable hits. With a career spanning over four decades, the band has produced some of the most enduring and beloved rock anthems of all time, cementing their place in music history as trailblazers and legends. In this article, we’ll be exploring the 10 best Joan Jett and the Blackhearts songs of all time, highlighting the tracks that showcase the band’s exceptional talent and rock and roll spirit. From the defiant power of “Bad Reputation” to the pure joy of “I Love Rock and Roll,” our list will showcase the best of the best when it comes to the band’s signature sound. We’ll delve into the stories behind each song, examining the unique qualities that make them so enduring and iconic. Whether you’re a diehard fan or new to the band’s music, our list is sure to provide a fascinating look into the world of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and the timeless songs that have made them one of the most important rock bands of all time.
1.“Bad Reputation”
“Bad Reputation” is a classic rock song by Joan Jett, released in 1980. It’s an anthem for the outcasts and rebels, as the lyrics express a sense of defiance against those who try to bring you down. The song features powerful guitar riffs and a driving beat, which have become iconic in rock music.The opening line, “I don’t give a damn ’bout my bad reputation,” sets the tone for the entire song. It’s a declaration of independence and a rejection of societal norms. Jett’s tough, no-nonsense attitude shines through in the lyrics, as she proclaims that she won’t change herself for anyone.The chorus is catchy and memorable, with Jett singing, “I don’t give a damn ’bout my reputation, you’re living in the past, it’s a new generation.” This is a nod to the changing times and the youth culture of the 1980s. Jett was a trailblazer for women in rock music, and “Bad Reputation” is a testament to her fierce spirit and uncompromising attitude.The music video for “Bad Reputation” features Jett and her band, The Blackhearts, performing on a stage in front of a graffiti-covered wall. Jett’s signature look – leather jacket, black jeans, and black boots – is on full display, and her energy is infectious. The video captures the rebellious spirit of the song, with shots of fans dancing and fist-pumping along to the music.”Bad Reputation” has become an anthem for anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or out of place. Its message of self-acceptance and defiance resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Miley Cyrus, Sheryl Crow, and Kelly Clarkson, proving that its legacy lives on.
2.“I Love Rock N Roll”
“I Love Rock N Roll” is a classic rock song by Joan Jett, released in 1981. It’s a cover of a song originally recorded by The Arrows in 1975, but Jett’s version is the one that has become iconic. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, and its simple, straightforward lyrics have made it a beloved anthem for rock fans around the world.The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with Jett singing, “I love rock n roll, so put another dime in the jukebox, baby.” The lyrics are a celebration of the power of music and its ability to bring people together. Jett’s passion for rock music is evident in every line, and her raw, unapologetic energy is infectious.The music video for “I Love Rock N Roll” features Jett and her band, The Blackhearts, performing in a small club. Jett’s signature look – leather jacket, black jeans, and black boots – is on full display, and her performance is electrifying. The video captures the energy and excitement of a live rock show, and it’s easy to see why the song has become such a beloved classic.”I Love Rock N Roll” has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Britney Spears, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and The Black Keys. Its timeless appeal and infectious energy have made it a staple of rock radio and a beloved anthem for generations of music fans.
3.“Roadrunner”
“Roadrunner” is a classic rock song by The Modern Lovers, released in 1976. The song features a driving beat and a catchy guitar riff, and its lyrics celebrate the freedom and excitement of driving on the open road. The song has become an anthem for anyone who loves the feeling of the wind in their hair and the thrill of the open road.The opening line, “I’m in love with Massachusetts and the neon when it’s cold outside,” sets the scene for the entire song. It’s a tribute to the beauty and vibrancy of the state, and it captures the excitement of driving through its cities and towns. The lyrics are simple but effective, and they paint a vivid picture of the freedom and joy that come with being behind the wheel.The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with lead singer Jonathan Richman singing, “Roadrunner, roadrunner, going faster miles an hour.” The lyrics capture the thrill and excitement of driving fast, and they celebrate the sense of adventure that comes with exploring new places.
The music video for “Roadrunner” is a simple but effective visual accompaniment to the song. It features footage of Richman driving through the streets of Massachusetts, interspersed with shots of him singing and playing guitar. The video captures the sense of freedom and joy that the song embodies, and it’s easy to see why “Roadrunner” has become such a beloved classic.
4. “Long Live The Night”
“Long Live The Night” is a classic rock song by the band Autograph, released in 1987. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, and its lyrics celebrate the excitement and energy of a night out on the town. The song has become an anthem for anyone who loves to party and have a good time.The opening line, “Can’t wait another minute, gotta have you by my side,” sets the tone for the entire song. It’s a declaration of the urgency and excitement that come with the prospect of a night out. The lyrics are fun and playful, and they capture the sense of adventure and anticipation that come with a night out on the town.The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with lead singer Steve Plunkett singing, “Long live the night, let’s live it up, we’re gonna do it right.” The lyrics celebrate the freedom and joy that come with letting loose and having a good time, and they invite listeners to join in the fun.
The music video for “Long Live The Night” is a high-energy visual accompaniment to the song. It features the band performing on a stage, interspersed with shots of people partying and dancing. The video captures the sense of excitement and energy that the song embodies, and it’s easy to see why “Long Live The Night” has become such a beloved classic.
5.“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap”
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a classic rock song by AC/DC, released in 1976. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, and its lyrics tell the story of a man who will do anything for money. The song has become an anthem for anyone who loves the rough and rowdy side of rock and roll.The opening line, “If you’re havin’ trouble with your high school head, he’s givin’ you the blues, you wanna graduate but not in his bed,” sets the scene for the entire song. It’s a nod to the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, and it captures the sense of mischief and mayhem that pervades the song.The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with lead singer Bon Scott singing, “Dirty deeds done dirt cheap.” The lyrics celebrate the notion of doing whatever it takes to get what you want, no matter how dirty or underhanded the methods may be. It’s a song that revels in the darker side of human nature, and it’s easy to see why it has become such a beloved classic.The music video for “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a simple but effective visual accompaniment to the song. It features footage of the band performing on a stage, interspersed with shots of a man carrying out various nefarious activities. The video captures the sense of rebellion and danger that the song embodies, and it’s easy to see why “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” has become such an iconic rock anthem.
6.“I Hate Myself for Loving You”
“I Hate Myself for Loving You” is a classic rock song by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, released in 1988. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, and its lyrics express the conflicted emotions of a person who is in love with someone they know is wrong for them. The song has become an anthem for anyone who has ever found themselves in a toxic or unhealthy relationship.The opening line, “Midnight gettin’ uptight, where are you?” sets the scene for the entire song. It’s a nod to the restless and anxious feelings that come with being in love with someone who is unreliable or unavailable. The lyrics are honest and raw, and they capture the painful and frustrating aspects of love.The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with Jett singing, “I hate myself for loving you, can’t break free from the things that you do.” The lyrics capture the conflicting emotions of someone who is in love with someone they know is bad for them, but who can’t help their feelings. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of being in love with someone who is wrong for you, and it’s easy to see why “I Hate Myself for Loving You” has become such a beloved classic.
The music video for “I Hate Myself for Loving You” is a high-energy visual accompaniment to the song. It features Jett and the Blackhearts performing on a stage, interspersed with shots of cheerleaders and football players. The video captures the sense of rebellion and defiance that the song embodies, and it’s easy to see why “I Hate Myself for Loving You” has become such an iconic rock anthem.
7.“Crimson and Clover”
“Crimson and Clover” is a classic rock song by Tommy James and the Shondells, released in 1968. The song features a distinctive psychedelic guitar riff and is known for its catchy chorus. The lyrics are somewhat cryptic and have been interpreted in different ways, but they are generally considered to be about a romantic relationship that has ended or is in danger of ending. “Crimson and Clover” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and becoming a classic of the era.
8.“Light Of Day”
“Light of Day” is a song performed by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, released in 1987 as the title track of the movie with the same name. The movie, directed by Paul Schrader, stars Michael J. Fox and Joan Jett as siblings who form a rock band in Cleveland, Ohio.The song, which was written and performed by Springsteen, has a raw and energetic sound that perfectly captures the spirit of the film’s plot. It features Springsteen’s signature raspy vocals, coupled with powerful guitar riffs and saxophone solos that build up to an explosive crescendo.Lyrically, “Light of Day” is a song about the struggles and joys of being a musician, and the passion that drives them to keep playing night after night. Springsteen’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and metaphors, painting a picture of the gritty, hard-working life of a rock and roll band.The music video for the song features footage from the film, intercut with shots of Springsteen and the E Street Band performing live. The video captures the raw energy and emotion of the song, as well as the electrifying performances of the musicians.Overall, “Light of Day” is a powerful and anthemic rock song that showcases Springsteen’s talents as a songwriter and performer. Its timeless sound and universal themes continue to resonate with music fans today, making it a beloved classic in Springsteen’s extensive catalog.
9.“Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah)”
“Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah)” is a glam rock song by Gary Glitter, released in 1973. The song features a catchy guitar riff and an anthemic chorus that encourages audience participation. Despite its popularity, the song has been controversial due to Glitter’s later conviction for child sexual abuse. Some radio stations and music services have removed the song from their playlists in light of these revelations. However, the song remains a classic of the glam rock era and has been covered by several other artists.
10.“Cherry Bomb” (The Runaways)
“Cherry Bomb” is a classic rock song by the all-female band The Runaways, released in 1976. The song is known for its high-energy punk rock sound and catchy lyrics, which are about a teenage girl asserting her independence and sexuality. “Cherry Bomb” features lead vocals by Cherie Currie and a memorable guitar riff by Joan Jett. The song was a commercial success and became a signature song for The Runaways.“Cherry Bomb” is widely regarded as an important song in the history of women in rock music. The Runaways were one of the first all-female bands to achieve mainstream success, and “Cherry Bomb” helped to pave the way for future generations of female rockers. The song has been covered by several other artists and has become a feminist anthem, with its message of female empowerment resonating with audiences of all genders.
In addition to its musical legacy, “Cherry Bomb” has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, further cementing its place in popular culture. The song remains a classic of the punk rock genre and a testament to the power of women in rock music.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
