Joan Jett’s debut album Bad Reputation (1981) began as a menacing thesis, facing a world that told Jett, “girls don’t play electric guitar,” and continues to thrive 45 years later as a cultural staple.
The album includes hits like Bad Reputation, You Don’t Own Me and Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah), alongside guest appearances by members of Sex Pistols and Blondie, and remains a timeless statement, reminding us that Joan Jett’s perseverance and resolve are just as visceral and authentic as when she first told us “a girl can do what she wants to do.”
The title track has appeared everywhere from TV shows like Freaks and Geeks and American Chopper, to ads for Folgers, Jack Daniel’s and Nike, as well as films including 10 Things I Hate About You and Shrek. It also featured on Taylor Swift’s 2018 stadium tour and was certified gold as a digital single, continuing to reach new audiences every day.
This 45th anniversary edition of Bad Reputation features brand-new album artwork using a rare photo from the era.
