January 23, 1981 - Joan Jett’s Album Bad Reputation Was Re-Released

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Pete

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On this day, January 23, 1981, Joan Jett’s iconic album Bad Reputation was officially re-released under its now-famous title. Originally released independently as Joan Jett in May 1980, the album struggled to find major label support until Neil Bogart’s Boardwalk Records stepped in.

Bad Reputation was a raw, energetic collection of rock tracks that perfectly captured Joan Jett’s rebellious spirit. The title track, Bad Reputation, became an anthem for outsiders and is still one of her most recognizable songs. The album also included covers of Shout and Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah), showcasing Jett’s ability to make classics her own.

This re-release marked the beginning of Joan Jett’s rise to fame and paved the way for her next album, I Love Rock ‘n Roll, which would cement her status as a rock legend.

Fun Fact: The title track Bad Reputation later gained a second life as the theme song for the TV show Freaks and Geeks, introducing a new generation to Joan Jett’s music.

Trivia Question: What was the name of the all-female rock band Joan Jett was part of before launching her solo career?
 
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