Joan Jett

Joan Jett
Jett smiling toward the camera
Jett in 2013
Background information
Birth nameJoan Marie Larkin
Born (1958-09-22) September 22, 1958 (age 66)
Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, U.S.
OriginLos Angeles, California, U.S.
Genres
Occupations
  • Musician
  • singer
  • songwriter
  • record producer
  • actress
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • guitar
Years active1975–present
Member ofJoan Jett and the Blackhearts
Formerly of
Websitejoanjett.com

Joan Jett (born Joan Marie Larkin; September 22, 1958)[1] is an American musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. Often referred to as the "Godmother of Punk" and the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll", she is regarded as a rock icon and an influential figure in popular rock music.

Jett co-founded and performed with the Runaways from 1975 to 1979, with whom she released four albums. After their dissolution, she formed the independent record label Blackheart Records with producer Kenny Laguna. She founded Joan Jett and the Blackhearts as her backup band in 1979; during this time, she released her solo debut album. With the Blackhearts, Jett has released twelve albums, three of which have been certified platinum or gold.[2][3][4] Additionally, eleven of their singles have appeared on the Billboard Hot 100.[5]

Jett was included on Rolling Stone's 2003 and 2023 lists of the greatest guitarists of all time. In 2015, she and the Blackhearts were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Outside of music, she headlined the film Light of Day in 1987 and has appeared in several television series. She is also recognized for her activism.

  1. ^ Fricke, David (April 24, 2015). "Joan Jett: Built to Rock". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on November 21, 2017. Retrieved December 3, 2015.
  2. ^ Martin, Bill (2002). Pro Secrets of Heavy Rock Singing. Sanctuary Publishing. p. 9. ISBN 978-1-86074-437-2.
  3. ^ "10 great feminist anthems". Time Out New York. Archived from the original on November 22, 2013. Retrieved June 16, 2013.
  4. ^ "What the Press is Saying". Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. Retrieved June 16, 2013.
  5. ^ "Joan Jett & the Blackhearts | Biography, Music & News". Billboard. Retrieved November 12, 2024.