The Untold Stories Behind Bon Jovi’s 'Slippery When Wet' - A Hard Rock Triumph
Bon Jovi’s third studio album, Slippery When Wet , released on August 18, 1986, catapulted the band into rock stardom, solidifying their place in music history. But behind the album’s glittering success lies a story of struggle, determination, and a touch of serendipity. Here are some fascinating details that many fans might not know about this iconic album.
A Collaborative Genius: Much of the album’s success can be credited to the collaboration between Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and the renowned songwriter Desmond Child. Together, they crafted hits like “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer” in the unlikeliest of places—Richie Sambora’s mother’s basement in New Jersey. The band had written about 30 songs and even auditioned them for teenagers to decide which tracks should make the final cut. This grassroots approach paid off, with the album producing three top-ten singles and becoming Bon Jovi’s best-selling album to date.
The Birth of a Title: The album’s title, Slippery When Wet , was inspired by a visit to a strip club in Vancouver. Initially, the band considered naming the album Wanted Dead or Alive , even designing a cover with the group dressed as cowboys. However, the final title and cover—featuring a wet black bin bag with the title traced in water—were last-minute decisions, reflecting the raw, unpolished essence of the album.
Also Read:Unlikely Inspiration and Reluctance: Jon Bon Jovi was initially hesitant about including “Livin’ on a Prayer” on the album, doubting its potential. Richie Sambora, however, was convinced it would be a hit, leading them to re-record the track. This decision proved pivotal, as the song went on to become one of the band’s most iconic anthems. The lyrics of “Livin’ on a Prayer” were inspired by the struggles of the working class, reflecting Jon’s roots and the realities of the Reagan era.
The Making of a Rock Star: Before the success of Slippery When Wet , Bon Jovi faced immense pressure. Their second album, 7800° Fahrenheit , had failed to live up to expectations, leaving the band on shaky ground with their label. Jon himself admitted that everything about that second album felt wrong, from the production to the personal struggles the band members were going through. It was a difficult period, but it set the stage for their comeback.
A Record-Breaking Success: Slippery When Wet didn’t just mark a personal victory for Bon Jovi; it made history. It was the first rock album to have three hits in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100, with “You Give Love a Bad Name” becoming the band’s first song to reach number one. The album spent eight weeks at number one and 38 weeks in the top five on the Billboard 200, eventually going platinum 12 times over.
Legacy and Impact: Even today, Slippery When Wet remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, a testament to its enduring appeal and the timeless quality of its songs. The album’s success was not just a commercial triumph but a defining moment for Bon Jovi, proving that they could overcome adversity and emerge stronger.
In the end, Slippery When Wet is more than just an album; it’s a symbol of resilience and the belief that, with the right mix of talent, collaboration, and a bit of luck, anything is possible. Jon Bon Jovi’s journey from sweeping studio floors to becoming a rock legend is a story of perseverance that continues to inspire fans worldwide.
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