Joan Jett performed her first UK headline show in 16 years at Glasgow's O2 Academy, delivering a set of straight-shooting hard rock that spanned her career from the Runaways to the Blackhearts. However, the show was marred by her decision to perform convicted paedophile Gary Glitter's song 'Do You Wanna Touch Me'.
Setlist and Performance Highlights
Jett, 67, wore black leather and maintained her trademark poker face throughout the night. She opened with early cuts from the Runaways and progressed to more recent releases with the Blackhearts. Her voice remains deep and commanding, with added gravel that enhances her delivery. The Blackhearts, now a simplified three-piece, played hard and fast.
Notable moments included her cover of the Replacements' 'Androgynous', which was heartfelt and surprisingly rootsy. She cracked a rare grin during Sly and the Family Stone's 'Everyday People' before launching into a sour, serrated guitar solo. 'I Love Rock'n'Roll' and 'Crimson and Clover' – both covers that have become her own – were highlights, with the latter's switch between dreamy vulnerability and thrashing noise standing out. 'I Hate Myself for Loving You' showcased swaggering, pissed-off arena rock.
Controversial Song Choice
Despite her arsenal of hits, Jett included Gary Glitter's 'Do You Wanna Touch Me', a song by a convicted paedophile. She has defended this choice, saying: 'Am I going to drop it … after I've had my own career with the song? No.' The show closed with 'Bad Reputation', a reminder of her independent spirit.
Overall Impression
The concert delivered real rock history, but at times felt more like history than it should, with even the adrenalised 'Cherry Bomb' delivered with cool nonchalance. Jett asked for less air conditioning on stage, saying 'I want to sweat!', and the night did heat up. However, the inclusion of Glitter's song was a misstep that overshadowed an otherwise rip-roaring performance. Jett continues her UK tour until 10 July, including a date at Manchester Academy on 4 July.
