Lita Ford introduces new “female” category for easier acceptance in the world.

Lita Ford, a renowned guitarist, reminisced about the challenges she faced as a young girl wanting to play the guitar. She encountered skepticism and discouragement from people who believed that it was not something girls should do. Ford, however, did not let these negative comments deter her. Instead, she used them as motivation to prove herself and pursue her passion for music. Her experience as a member of The Runaways holds significant historical value, as it inspired other women to pursue music and form bands of their own.

Despite the progress and success she has achieved since her time in The Runaways, Ford acknowledges that the label of ‘female guitarist’ has only recently emerged in the music industry. This label serves as a reminder that sexism still exists within the community, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by women in the music industry.

Reflecting on her journey with The Runaways, Ford shared, “Growing up in The Runaways, I just wanted to play guitar. It’s really all I was focusing on. And people would always say to me, ‘No, girls don’t play guitar.’ And I would think, ‘Oh, they don’t? Okay. Well, I do.’ People say that to you, and it just makes you want to do it more.”

She emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity, stating, “It was a fight, it was a battle. Growing up in The Runaways’ days, 16-17-year-old girls, nobody knew what to make of us. But the truth is, we were a bit before our time, but we were badass, and we were a team. We were a great band, and we left our mark in rock ‘n’ roll history. So maybe they were wrong, and you just gotta do what you got to do sometimes.”

Regarding the ‘female guitarist’ label, Ford expressed her thoughts on its significance, noting, “People had to start putting you in the female category. ‘Oh, she’s a female guitar player,’ and ‘she’s good for a female.’ When did that category start? I don’t know that it really ever existed back in The Runaways’ days. We were punk rock and that was it, but now there’s a female category because it makes it easier, I think, for the world to accept the fact that you are liking a girl or a female guitar player.”

Despite the challenges and stereotypes she has faced throughout her career, Ford remains resilient and focused on her passion for music. She emphasized her willingness to embrace any category that she is placed in, stating, “I don’t really care. Whatever category you want to put me in, just put me in a category, because at least I’m in there somewhere, somehow.”

Currently, Lita Ford is touring and is set to perform at the Wacken Open Air festival on 30 July. Her dedication to music and unwavering spirit serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, regardless of gender.