About the song
**Introduction to “You Give Love a Bad Name”**
“You Give Love a Bad Name” stands as a defining anthem of the 1980s rock era, emblematic of Bon Jovi’s meteoric rise to stardom. Released as the lead single from their 1986 album *Slippery When Wet*, this track marked a pivotal moment in the band’s career, becoming their first No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 on November 29, 1986. Written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and the prolific Desmond Child, the song tells a tale of betrayal and heartache, addressing a lover who has wronged the protagonist. This powerful ballad resonated with a broad audience, cementing Bon Jovi’s place in rock history.
Interestingly, the song’s catchy chorus has its roots in a different context. Originally, the chorus tune was recorded by Bonnie Tyler for a track titled “If You Were a Woman (And I Was a Man),” produced by Jim Steinman. Disappointed by its limited success, Desmond Child, who co-wrote the Bon Jovi hit, reworked the melody and lyrics with Bon Jovi and Sambora, creating a song that would become iconic in its own right. This song, with its dynamic vocals and anthemic production, played a significant role in propelling the genre of hair metal into the mainstream spotlight.
The reception of “You Give Love a Bad Name” was overwhelmingly positive. Cash Box praised it as a “jackhammer single” that could drive Bon Jovi to greater heights, while Billboard described it as “hard rock, raspy and aggressive.” Despite some critical voices, such as Chris Molanphy’s comparison to “sub-Meat Loaf” lyrics and his critique of its similarities to Steinman’s style, the song was a milestone in introducing hair metal to a wider audience. VH1 later recognized its impact by placing it at No. 20 on their list of the “100 Best Hard Rock Songs.”
The song’s music video, filmed at the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles, features high-energy concert footage that captures the essence of Bon Jovi’s live performances. Directed by Wayne Isham, who was also known for his work with Mötley Crüe, the video played a crucial role in boosting the band’s visibility on MTV. It showcased the band’s electrifying stage presence and contributed significantly to their rise from opening act to headlining status.
“You Give Love a Bad Name” continues to be a staple in Bon Jovi’s repertoire and a testament to the band’s enduring appeal. Its catchy chorus and compelling rock energy have ensured its place as one of the quintessential rock anthems of the 1980s.
Video
Lyrics
Shot through the heart
And you’re to blame
Darlin’, you give love a bad name
An angel’s smile is what you sell
You promise me Heaven, then put me through hell
Chains of love got a hold on me
When passion’s a prison, you can’t break free
Oh, you’re a loaded gun, yeah
Oh, there’s nowhere to run
No one can save me
The damage is done
Shot through the heart
And you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (bad name)
Hey, you give love, a bad name
Paint your smile on your lips
Blood red nails on your fingertips
A school boy’s dream, you act so shy
Your very first kiss was your first kiss goodbye
Whoa, you’re a loaded gun
Whoa, there’s nowhere to run
No one can save me
The damage is done
Shot through the heart
And you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (bad name)
You give love, oh
Oh, shot through the heart
And you’re to blame
You give love a bad name
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (bad name)
Shot through the heart
And you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (bad name)
You give love
You give love (bad name)
You give love
You give love (bad name)
You give love
You give love (bad name)
You give love
You give love