“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” is an undeniable anthem, a song synonymous with rebellion and female empowerment. But who originally sang this iconic track, and how did Joan Jett’s version become the definitive rendition? Let’s dive into the history of “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” and explore its journey to becoming a rock classic.
The Arrows: The Original “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll”
Before Joan Jett leather-clad herself into rock history with “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” the song belonged to a British band called the Arrows. Formed in the early 1970s, the Arrows achieved moderate success with their glam rock sound. Lead singer Alan Merrill and guitarist Jake Hooker penned “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” in 1975 as a direct response to the Rolling Stones’ “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll.”
Merrill felt the Stones’ song was almost apologetic for their rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. In contrast, “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” was a bold declaration of love for the genre, brimming with youthful energy and unadulterated passion. Interestingly, the Arrows’ original version was released as a B-side to their single “Broken Down Heart.” While it didn’t achieve widespread recognition initially, it laid the groundwork for the iconic song we know today.
Joan Jett’s Transformation of a Classic
Joan Jett discovered “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” while touring England with the Runaways in the late 1970s. She was immediately drawn to the song’s raw energy, but her bandmates weren’t keen on recording a cover. Undeterred, Jett initially recorded the song in 1979 with Steve Jones and Paul Cook of the Sex Pistols. It wasn’t until 1981, when she re-recorded it with the Blackhearts, that the song exploded onto the scene.
Jett’s version featured a more powerful, driving arrangement and a crucial lyrical change. While the Arrows’ version depicted a traditional boy-meets-girl scenario, Jett flipped the script, portraying a confident woman pursuing a man. This subtle but significant alteration resonated deeply with audiences, transforming the song into a powerful anthem of female agency.
“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll”: A Global Phenomenon
Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the defining rock anthems of the 1980s. Its influence extended beyond the charts, solidifying Jett’s status as a rock icon and inspiring countless women to embrace their own strength and independence.
The song’s popularity has also led to numerous covers and parodies over the years, further cementing its place in popular culture. From Britney Spears to “Weird Al” Yankovic, artists across genres have paid homage to this timeless track, each adding their unique interpretation to the iconic melody. Even Miley Cyrus, with the legendary Dolly Parton, recently performed a spirited rendition.
The Legacy of “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll”
While the Arrows deserve credit for creating “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” it was Joan Jett who truly unleashed its potential. Her powerful vocals, rebellious spirit, and the song’s empowering message transformed a relatively obscure B-side into a global phenomenon. So, while the answer to “Who Sings I Love Rock And Roll Song” technically includes both the Arrows and Joan Jett, it’s Jett’s version that remains the enduring anthem, continuing to inspire generations of rock fans.
