Bon Jovi – Wanted Dead Or Alive

About the song

**Introduction to “Wanted Dead or Alive”**

“Wanted Dead or Alive” is a defining track by American rock band Bon Jovi, released as the third single from their 1986 album *Slippery When Wet*. This power ballad, co-written by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora, exemplifies the band’s distinctive sound while capturing a spirit of rebellious adventure. Inspired by Bob Seger’s hit “Turn the Page,” the song emerged as a tribute to the gritty, outlaw-esque lifestyle that both rock bands and Old West heroes shared. Released in 1987, it became one of Bon Jovi’s most iconic songs, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 13 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Notably, it was the third single from *Slippery When Wet* to reach the Top 10 on the Hot 100, making the album the first glam metal record to achieve this feat.

Jon Bon Jovi’s inspiration for “Wanted Dead or Alive” came during a sleepless night on a tour bus, where he reflected on the parallels between rock stardom and the outlaw life. The song’s lyrics speak to the duality of being both revered and reviled, capturing the essence of the rock star’s existence with a raw and rugged authenticity. This thematic exploration is supported by the song’s distinctive blend of powerful guitar riffs, dramatic solos, and Jon Bon Jovi’s gritty vocals.

The music video, directed by Wayne Isham, features dynamic footage from the band’s *Slippery When Wet* tour, including scenes from various iconic venues across the United States. This visual representation emphasizes the band’s intense, on-the-road lifestyle and complements the song’s narrative of adventure and endurance. Filmed with an energy that matches the song’s anthemic quality, the video remains a memorable portrayal of Bon Jovi’s rock-and-roll ethos.

“Wanted Dead or Alive” has cemented its place in popular culture, serving as the theme song for Discovery Channel’s *Deadliest Catch* and appearing in films such as *Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man*, *Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed*, and *Wild Hogs*. Additionally, the song’s enduring appeal is evident in its use across various television series, including *It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia* and *Supernatural*.

Certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America in 2015, “Wanted Dead or Alive” continues to resonate with audiences, embodying the enduring spirit of Bon Jovi’s rock legacy. Despite some critical disdain, including comments from musicians like Les Claypool and Jeff Tweedy, the song remains a staple of Bon Jovi’s discography and a testament to the band’s impact on the rock genre.

Video

Lyrics

It’s all the same, only the names will change
Everyday, it seems we’re wastin’ away
Another place where the faces are so cold
I drive all night just to get back home

I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride
I’m wanted dead or alive
Wanted dead or alive

Sometimes I sleep, sometimes it’s not for days
The people I meet always go their separate ways
Sometimes you tell the day
By the bottle that you drink
And times when you’re all alone all you do is think

I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride
I’m wanted (wanted) dead or alive
Wanted (wanted) dead or alive

Oh, and I ride

(Yeah)

Oh, and I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride
I’m wanted dead or alive

I walk these streets
A loaded six-string on my back
I play for keeps ’cause I might not make it back
I been everywhere, still, I’m standing tall
I’ve seen a million faces
And I’ve rocked them all

I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride
I’m wanted (wanted) dead or alive
I’m a cowboy, I got the night on my side
I’m wanted (wanted) dead or alive
And I ride, dead or alive
I still drive (I still drive) dead or alive
Dead or alive, dead or alive, dead or alive, dead or alive