Cherie Currie Recounts Rush “Sabotage” Incident During 1977 Runaways Tour
In the pantheon of rock history, feuds between bands are not uncommon, but the ongoing rift between Rush and The Runaways is particularly intriguing. This rivalry, dating back to 1977, was recently reignited by Cherie Currie of The Runaways.
The 2010 film The Runaways hinted at this feud, showcasing Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett urinating on a band's guitar after being mocked. Jett later confirmed this scene was inspired by an incident involving Rush.
During an interview with The Metal Voice, Currie detailed a particular incident from February 1977 when The Runaways opened for Rush at Detroit's Cobo Hall. She accused Rush of deliberately sabotaging their set by throwing paper onto the stage.
Currie explained that while performing in 6-inch platform boots, she had to jump off the drum riser. She slipped on one of the papers, narrowly avoiding a fall into the orchestra pit, which could have resulted in serious injury.
Currie vividly recalled the fear on the photographers' faces as she slid towards the pit. Fortunately, she managed to stop herself at the last moment, striking a rock star pose to cover up the near disaster.
This incident, Currie noted, is why she and Joan Jett harbor a particular disdain for Rush. She felt that Rush was not only unsupportive but actively working against them during their performance.
Geddy Lee, Rush's frontman, addressed these accusations in a 2013 interview with Prog. He dismissed the claims, suggesting that The Runaways were dealing with their own insecurities and that Rush had no ill will towards them.