About the Song
Few anthems define the 1980s rock scene as powerfully as Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer.” Released in 1986 on the band’s landmark Slippery When Wet album, the track became an instant global phenomenon. Written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Desmond Child, the song captures the struggles and resilience of working-class America through the story of Tommy and Gina, a couple clinging to hope amid economic hardships.
Initially, the band wasn’t convinced the song would fit their hard-rock, stadium-shaking vision. Jon Bon Jovi himself was hesitant, describing early demos as “spooky and sensitive.” But Sambora and Child recognized its potential, championing the track’s development. Once infused with its iconic talkbox effect, thundering drums, and soaring guitar riffs, the reworked version exploded onto the scene, becoming a cultural and musical milestone.
“Livin’ On A Prayer” was the band’s second consecutive No. 1 single after “You Give Love A Bad Name,” making Bon Jovi the first hard rock band to achieve back-to-back chart-toppers on the Billboard Hot 100. Its Wayne Isham-directed music video, showcasing the band’s electrifying stage presence, became an MTV staple, cementing their status as rock superstars.
Beyond its initial success, the song has had enduring cultural impact. From its acoustic rendition following the 9/11 attacks during the America: A Tribute to Heroes telecast to a Chicago-wide singalong at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, “Livin’ On A Prayer” remains a symbol of hope and unity. The song has also inspired artists like Rihanna and Michelle Williams, who both paid tribute with their own versions.
Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet album, bolstered by hits like “Livin’ On A Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive,” has achieved rare Diamond certification, topping charts for weeks and selling millions of copies worldwide. The band’s legacy extends far beyond this single, with Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora earning induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Even decades after its release, “Livin’ On A Prayer” continues to resonate across generations, uniting fans in arenas and karaoke bars alike. Its message of perseverance and f aith ensures it will remain a cornerstone of rock history for years to come.
Lyrics
Once upon a time, not so long ago
Tommy used to work on the docks, union’s been on strike
He’s down on his luck, it’s tough, so tough
Gina works the diner all day, working for her man
She brings home her pay, for love, mmm, for love
She says, “We’ve gotta hold on to what we’ve got
It doesn’t make a difference if we make it or not
We’ve got each other and that’s a lot for love
We’ll give it a shot”
Whoa, we’re half way there
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand, we’ll make it, I swear
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Tommy’s got his six string in hock, now he’s holding in
When he used to make it talk so tough, ooh, it’s tough
Gina dreams of running away
When she cries in the night, Tommy whispers
“Baby, it’s okay, someday”
We’ve gotta hold on to what we’ve got
It doesn’t make a difference if we make it or not
We’ve got each other and that’s a lot for love
We’ll give it a shot
Whoa, we’re half way there
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Livin’ on a prayer
Oh, we’ve gotta hold on, ready or not
You live for the fight when that’s all that you’ve got
Whoa, we’re half way there
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand and we’ll make it, I swear
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Whoa, we’re half way there
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand and we’ll make it, I swear
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Whoa, we’re half way there
Whoa oh, livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand and we’ll make it, I swear
Whoa ohAdvertisementAdvertisement
