Music is an art form that has existed since the creation of humans. All over the world, music is played in many different forms and styles. By the 1950s, a new style of music was emerging in the United States that would change the world forever. Not only would this music bring a completely different sound, but it would change the way people behaved, dressed, and even their lifestyle. This new style of music became known as rock and roll, and although no one created it, many artists added their own contributions and helped shape the music into what it is today. 'today. Rock and roll is divided and has many genres which all owe their roots to it. Without the contributions of all the artists who performed, the style would not be what it is today. Joan Jett is an artist who contributed to rock and roll and helped change some of the image of music. “Joan Jett, born Joan Marie Larkin on September 22, 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, spent her childhood on the move before developing her love of Rock & Roll in California” (Joan Jett). Jett received her first guitar at the age of 14 and has always been interested in writing. Once Joan finally moved to California, she often frequented a popular teen club and was inspired by the music there. At the age of 15, Joan joined the band The Runaways and wrote the song "Cherry Bomb" (Biography of Joan Jett). Joan Jett went on to form her own band, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and established herself as one of the most influential women in rock and roll history. Today, Joan Jett continues to tour and produce music and is a household name among rock and roll fans. Joan Jett began her musical career as part of The Runaways, an all-female punk rock band. ...... middle of paper ......tributors to the history of rock and roll, when in reality every artist leaves something behind to change it. Joan Jett, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Eminem all helped impact and shape the history of rock and roll. These artists helped break down gender barriers, racial barriers and create new styles of music. No matter their size, everyone has the opportunity to change history, one day at a time. Works Cited "Eminem". Rolling stone. Np, and Web. May 13, 2014. “Eminem Biography.” Eminem biography. Np, and Web. May 1, 2014. “Joan Jett.” Biography, Discography, Musical News on 100 XR. Np, and Web. May 13, 2014. “Biography of Joan Jett. » Bio.com. A&E Networks Television, nd Web. May 13, 2014. “Red Hot Chili Peppers Biography.” Rolling Stone. Np, nd Web. May 13, 2014. "Red Hot Chili Peppers Career." MTV Artists. Np, nd Web. May 13. 2014.