The Runaways were far more than a teenage novelty or a provocative footnote in rock history — they were a groundbreaking all female hard rock band that challenged gender norms at a time when rock music was overwhelmingly male dominated. Formed in Los Angeles in 1975 by producer Kim Fowley, the band emerged from the raw energy of 1970s glam rock and proto punk, bringing attitude, volume, and unapologetic presence to a scene that rarely made space for young women with electric guitars.