Song from commercial Nike TV Spot, 'Dream Further' Featuring Gerard Piqué, Neymar Jr., Lieke Martens

"Bad Reputation" by Joan Jett - Overview and Meaning

"Bad Reputation" is a song by American rock musician Joan Jett, released in 1980 as the lead single from her debut solo album, "Bad Reputation." The song was written by Jett, Kenny Laguna, Ritchie Cordell, and Marty Kupersmith.

The song is about not caring what others think of you and doing whatever you want to do, regardless of your reputation. It has become one of Jett's signature songs and a feminist anthem, with its message of female empowerment and rebellion.

History and Reception

The song was a moderate hit, reaching number 51 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become a classic rock staple and has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.

The music video for "Bad Reputation" features Jett and her band, The Blackhearts, performing the song in a recording studio. The video helped further establish Jett's rebellious image and cemented her status as a rock icon.

Joan Jett's Comments on the Song

In an interview with Songfacts, Jett said that the song was inspired by her experiences with The Runaways, the all-female rock band she was a part of before going solo. She said, "It was about me being told that girls can't play rock and roll, that I was too loud, that nobody wanted to hear this kind of music."

Jett has also stated that the song is autobiographical and reflects her own rebellious nature and refusal to conform to societal norms. In a 2020 interview with Rolling Stone, Jett said, "I really do feel like I don’t care about my reputation, and that’s probably why I’ve been able to do things that people wouldn’t normally let women do."