Vicki Blue — later known professionally as Victory Tischler-Blue — joined The Runaways during the height of their international fame. As the band’s bassist from 1977 to 1978, she contributed to their touring lineup and appeared in some of their most iconic visual media. After leaving music, she reinvented herself as a filmmaker, producer, and creative director, becoming one of the most influential voices documenting The Runaways’ legacy.
Overview of Vicki Blue’s Lineage
Vicki Blue’s lineage represents a rare shift from rock musician to respected filmmaker and entertainment producer. Though her tenure with The Runaways was brief, her later work documenting the band’s history — including the acclaimed documentary Edgeplay — has made her one of the most essential figures in preserving their story.
Vicki Blue’s Lineage (By Era)
1. Early Life & Musical Beginnings (Pre–1977)
Born and raised in California, Blue grew up immersed in the Los Angeles rock scene.
A self-taught bassist, she was invited to audition for The Runaways as the band transitioned into a new lineup.
2. Joining The Runaways (1977)
Blue joined the band shortly after Jackie Fox’s departure.
Roles in the band:
- Bass guitar
- Touring musician
- Performer in promotional and public appearances
Notable contributions:
- Appearing in major photo shoots
- Touring internationally, including Japan
- Helping stabilize the lineup during shifting internal dynamics
Though she joined late in the band’s existence, her presence was an important part of their public image.
3. Touring & Band Activities (1977–1978)
During her run with the group, Blue performed extensively in:
- Japan (where the band had massive popularity)
- Europe
- The U.S. club and theatre circuit
She became recognizable to fans through magazine features and televised performances.
4. Departure & Transition to Film (Late 1970s–1980s)
After leaving The Runaways, Blue moved away from performance and began to pursue writing, photography, and eventually film production.
This shift marked the beginning of her second — and highly successful — career.
5. Filmmaking, Direction & Producing (1990s–Present)
Now known professionally as Victory Tischler-Blue, she became an accomplished:
- Filmmaker
- Music video director
- Television producer
- Documentarian
Her most important work:
Edgeplay: A Film About The Runaways (2004)
- Directed and produced by Tischler-Blue
- A deep, raw, firsthand look into the band’s history
- Became a defining documentary in rock history
- Featured candid interviews with members of the band
- Helped shape public understanding of The Runaways’ legacy
- Purchase on Amazon
This film is considered one of the most essential documents about the group.
She also worked extensively in:
- VH1 programming
- Music documentaries
- Rock photography
Her multi-disciplinary creativity continues today.
6. Legacy & Influence
Vicki Blue’s influence comes from two eras:
As a musician:
- Important part of the Runaways’ late-70s touring lineup
- Contributed to the band’s enduring visual identity
As a filmmaker:
- Preserved the real story of The Runaways
- Became an artistic voice for overlooked musicians and women in rock
- Created a lasting body of work documenting music culture
Her unique dual-career legacy makes her a pivotal part of RockLineage.
Career Timeline Summary
- 1977: Joins The Runaways as bassist
- 1977–1978: International touring + media appearances
- 1980s: Transitions into film and photography
- 1990s–2000s: Produces and directs music-related projects
- 2004: Releases Edgeplay: A Film About The Runaways. Purchase on Amazon
- 2000s–2020s: Ongoing creative, photographic, and documentary work