# Sandy West Dies 20 Years Ago

> Sandy West, co-founder of the pioneering all-girl rock band Runaways, died 20 years ago today.
- Title: Sandy West Dies 20 Years Ago · American Songwriter | Shortify
- Summary: Sandy West, co-founder of the pioneering all-girl rock band Runaways, died 20 years ago today. Sandy West, the Runaways' drummer, died of lung cancer in 2006…
- Keywords: sandy west, runaways, joan jett, lita ford, cherie currie, kim fowley, 1970s, classic rock, jailbait, japan, music, culture
- Source: American Songwriter — https://americansongwriter.com/20-years-ago-today-rock-music-lost-the-heart-of-the-pioneering-all-girl-band-that-launched-joan-jetts-career
- Author: Clayton Edwards
- Published: 2026-10-21T16:53:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: sandy west, runaways, joan jett, lita ford, cherie currie, kim fowley, 1970s, classic rock, jailbait, japan, music, culture
## Sandy West's Death
Sandy West died of lung cancer in san dimas california on october 21 2006 at age 47.
## Co-Founded Runaways
Sandy west co-founded the runaways with joan jett in 1975 and was the band's only constant member.
## Meeting Kim Fowley
Sandy west met producer kim fowley in the parking lot of the rainbow bar and grill on hollywood's sunset strip.
## Runaways Formed
The runaways formed in september 1975 after sandy west and joan jett began playing together.
## Early Challenges
The runaways faced sexist criticism and radio rejection in the united states while gaining popularity in japan and the uk.
## Sandy West's Later Life
After the runaways broke up, sandy west worked in construction and bartending before leaving music.
## Key takeaway

Sandy West, the Runaways' drummer, died of lung cancer in 2006 at age 47.