I Love Rock 'n Roll Album Review

The early 80's were the beginning of something amazing. Synth Pop and New Wave were just starting to take off, setting the stage for a very successful year for pop music. However, the other side of the coin was just as successful, that being of course, rock. The 80's would provide some of the greatest hits in the genre of all time, and some of the best albums. some examples would be the second best selling album in history Back in Black by ACDC, and the fantastic Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi. But in 1981 there would be an album which would change the rock scene forever. Especially for women in hard rock. That album is of course I Love Rock n' Roll.

In truth, I am surprised how many people don't know that this is an album. It has sold over 10 million copies to date, however it success was due to the main single. Regardless, the other singles and tracks are worth mentioning, seeing how few people even realize they exist.

The first track and single on the album, is the reason that it became a success. I Love Rock n' Roll became a number one hit in several countries including Australia, Canada, and The United States. Originally written in the 1970's by Alan Merrill and Jake Hooker of the Arrows, Joan Jett released her cover of the song in 1981 and thats when the single became reconsidered world wide. In terms of instrumentation, it is fairly simple sounding. It is the distortion of the lead guitar, basic drum beat, and her dirty and rough sounding vocals that make it unique. The main chorus is catchy, and just a lot of fun to shout at the top of your lungs. Up until this point, there had been few females in the rock scene who were able to become as successful as Jett became. And her masterful arrangement of the original song to make something truly special is amazing. It was a win for women in rock, and is a classic still to this day. What can be said other than I love rock n' roll.

The second single on the album, another cover, is a testament to Joan Jett's ability to turn just about any song into a hard rock classic. The original, recorded in 1968, is without a doubt, a soft rock tune. But her arrangement skills and very unique vocals completely transforms it into a completely new creation. Crimson and Clover, is simply a solid cover that does everything it needs to in order to add to the original while at the same time bringing enough new to make it her own.

The final single on the Album, Victim of Circumstance, was an original song written by Jett and has quite the the interesting backstory to it. Not being able to get signed to any major record label, Joan Jett and the Black Hearts, decided to form their own company, Black Heart Records. This track, is an obvious jab at those who refused her during her earlier days. While the instrumentation itself itself is just as strong as any other single I have mentioned (keeping that old style and feel) the lyrics are intriguing and its just simply fun to hear her insult major corporations. This song just oozes dirty rock, and I love every moment of it.

I mean, what else can be said, that hasn't already been said? Although there are quite a few covers on this album, it is a staple of how cover songs should be done. Bringing something new, fresh and original to the table. Making it your own. And no other artist, in my opinion, did quite like Joan Jett did it. Her arrangement skills are fantastic and no other artist had done it up to that point in history. She is one of the most influential women in rock and with this release it is obvious to see why. I recommend this album to anyone who has the slightest interest in the music industry, or music as an art form. It is a must listen.  

FINAL VERDICT 

10/10 

(Must Own)