Bon Jovi, the name synonymous with rock anthems and captivating ballads, has been a dominant force in the music scene for over four decades. Their journey, marked by induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, over 130 million albums sold globally, and a fanbase that spans generations, is a testament to their enduring appeal. Choosing the best from their extensive catalog is no easy feat, but we’ve undertaken the challenge to rank 35 of Bon Jovi’s most iconic songs, celebrating their incredible musical legacy.
Before diving into the list, fans are eagerly anticipating the Hulu premiere of Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story on April 26th. This docuseries promises an intimate look at the band’s career, featuring insights from past and present members, including Richie Sambora. The trailer hints at both the highs of their spectacular career and the lows, including Jon Bon Jovi’s recent vocal challenges, making this a must-watch for any Bon Jovi enthusiast. Now, let’s get into the music that has defined generations.
35. “Burning Bridges” – Burning Bridges (2015)
Burning Bridges holds a unique place in Bon Jovi’s discography. Released to fulfill their contractual obligations with Mercury Records after an incredible 32-year relationship, the album marked the end of an era. The title track itself is a clear message about this split, with lyrics that pull no punches. Jon Bon Jovi’s words reveal the less-than-amicable departure, highlighting the band’s feeling of being undervalued after decades of loyalty. The song’s directness and candid nature offer a rare glimpse into the business side of music and the band’s own experiences within the industry.
34. “Do What You Can” – 2020 (2020)
“Do What You Can” emerged as a song of solidarity and resilience during the unprecedented times of the coronavirus pandemic. What sets this track apart is its incorporation of fan-submitted lyrics, weaving together personal stories of struggle and perseverance from everyday Americans. This collaborative approach created a powerful anthem reflecting the collective experience of facing hardship and finding strength within communities. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced during the pandemic and the importance of unity and mutual support.
33. “She Don’t Know Me” – Bon Jovi (1984)
“She Don’t Know Me,” the follow-up to their breakthrough single “Runaway,” provides an interesting snapshot of Bon Jovi in their early years. While undeniably a catchy pop-rock song, it showcases a band still finding its definitive sound. Looking back, it’s clear that the raw talent and potential were there, but the band was still evolving into the global phenomenon they would become. The music video, with its quintessential 80s aesthetic, adds to the nostalgic charm and offers a fun, if somewhat cheesy, glimpse into the band’s early image.
32. “Someday I’ll Be Saturday Night” – Cross Road (1994)
Often overshadowed by the massive hit “Always” from the same Cross Road greatest hits album, “Someday I’ll Be Saturday Night” deserves its own spotlight. This song demonstrates Bon Jovi’s ability to tackle more profound themes while maintaining their signature anthemic sound. It speaks to resilience and hope in the face of adversity, resonating with listeners facing their own struggles. The song’s message of defiance and eventual triumph is a powerful reminder that even in dark times, there’s always the promise of a brighter future.
31. “The Radio Saved My Life Tonight” – 100,000,000 Bon Jovi Fans Can’t Be Wrong (2004)
“The Radio Saved My Life Tonight” holds a special place as the single from the 100,000,000 Bon Jovi Fans Can’t Be Wrong box set, celebrating Bon Jovi’s 20th anniversary. Recorded in 1992, likely during the Keep The Faith sessions, it’s a mystery how this energetic track didn’t make the original album cut. Its inclusion in the anniversary set was a treat for long-time fans, showcasing a high-quality song that remained hidden for years. The song is a testament to the depth of Bon Jovi’s catalog and the gems that can be found even among unreleased material.
30. “Dry County” – Keep The Faith (1992)
“Dry County” stands out in Bon Jovi’s discography for its epic scope and storytelling. Clocking in at nearly ten minutes, it’s one of their longest and most ambitious tracks. The song paints a vivid picture of towns dependent on the oil industry facing economic devastation when that industry declines. While rooted in the specific context of oil towns, the themes of economic hardship and community resilience are universally relatable. “Dry County” explores the human impact of economic shifts and the struggle to maintain hope and community in the face of job losses and uncertainty.
29. “This Ain’t A Love Song” – These Days (1995)
Richie Sambora’s contributions to Bon Jovi extended far beyond his guitar skills. His backing vocals and harmonies with Jon Bon Jovi were a crucial element of the band’s signature sound. “This Ain’t A Love Song” perfectly exemplifies this vocal synergy, along with Sambora’s exceptional guitar work. This track also marks the first of eight songs on this list co-written with Desmond Child, a prolific songwriter who significantly influenced Bon Jovi’s success. The collaboration with Child brought a polished songwriting sensibility that enhanced the band’s already strong musical foundation.
28. “Misunderstood” – Bounce (2002)
“Misunderstood” delves into the relatable experience of relationship hiccups and the importance of communication. The song captures those moments when words are misconstrued or poorly chosen, leading to misunderstandings between partners. However, at its heart, “Misunderstood” is about the power of open dialogue to resolve conflict and strengthen relationships. Its pop-rock melody and relatable lyrics made it a fan favorite, resonating with anyone who has navigated the complexities of romantic partnerships.
27. “Say It Isn’t So” – Crush (2000)
In contrast to “Misunderstood,” “Say It Isn’t So” explores the painful reality of relationships falling apart due to infidelity. The song acknowledges the heartbreak and betrayal that come with discovering a partner’s deceit. Despite the heavy subject matter, Bon Jovi manages to transform this pain into an incredibly catchy and cathartic anthem. “Say It Isn’t So” demonstrates the band’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level, turning personal struggles into universally resonant music.
26. “Captain Crash & The Beauty Queen From Mars” – Crush (2000)
Crush marked a significant “comeback” album for Bon Jovi, filled with gems like “Captain Crash & The Beauty Queen From Mars.” This song is incredibly catchy and boasts one of the most imaginative and memorable song titles in their entire catalog. The quirky title perfectly matches the upbeat and fun nature of the song, a testament to Bon Jovi’s ability to blend rock energy with pop sensibilities. Its infectious melody and playful lyrics make it a guaranteed mood-booster and a standout track from the Crush era.
25. “American Reckoning” – 2020 (2020)
“American Reckoning” represents a bold and necessary step for Bon Jovi into overtly political songwriting. Inspired by the murder of George Floyd and the ensuing protests against police brutality, the song directly confronts issues of social injustice and racial inequality in America. Jon Bon Jovi’s lyrics are unflinching and direct, painting a stark picture of the events and demanding accountability. This song marked a departure from Bon Jovi’s traditionally apolitical stance, showcasing a willingness to use their platform to address important social issues and spark dialogue.
24. “Undivided” – Bounce (2002)
Inspired by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, “Undivided” is a powerful arena rock anthem that aimed to capture the sense of unity and patriotism that emerged in the aftermath of the tragedy. The song reflects a moment in time when national tragedy seemed to bridge divides and foster a sense of collective identity. While the hope for lasting unity expressed in “Undivided” may feel somewhat nostalgic today, the song remains a potent reminder of the potential for people to come together in times of crisis and the enduring desire for national solidarity.
23. “We Don’t Run” – Burning Bridges (2015)
Despite Burning Bridges primarily consisting of older material, “We Don’t Run” was specifically written for this album. Co-written by Jon Bon Jovi and producer John Shanks, who also took over lead guitar duties after Richie Sambora’s departure, the song is a defiant anthem of resilience. Given the circumstances surrounding the album’s release and the band’s label issues, “We Don’t Run” perhaps didn’t receive the attention it deserved as a single. However, it’s a strong driving rock song with a powerful rhythm section and an empowering message of perseverance in the face of challenges.
22. “Who Says You Can’t Go Home (ft. Jennifer Nettles)” – Have A Nice Day (2005)
Bon Jovi successfully ventured into country territory with “Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” and the result was a chart-topping hit. This duet with Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles not only reached number one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart but also earned Bon Jovi their first and only Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals. The song’s crossover appeal demonstrates Bon Jovi’s versatility and ability to connect with audiences across genres. Its heartwarming message about returning to one’s roots resonated widely, contributing to its immense popularity and critical acclaim.
21. “In and Out of Love” – 7800° Fahrenheit (1985)
Bon Jovi has been open about their struggles following their debut album, with Jon Bon Jovi himself often overlooking 7800° Fahrenheit. Despite this, “In and Out of Love” remains a standout rock track from that era. It’s a high-energy song driven by Tico Torres’ strong drumming, showcasing the band’s raw rock and roll energy in their early years. While the album might not be their most celebrated, “In and Out of Love” proves that 7800° Fahrenheit still holds some hidden gems for Bon Jovi fans to discover.
20. “Bed Of Roses” – Keep The Faith (1992)
Bon Jovi are masters of the power ballad, unafraid to embrace grand emotions and dramatic gestures in their music. “Bed Of Roses” is a prime example of this, showcasing their ability to create ballads that are both heartfelt and impactful. Jon Bon Jovi’s sometimes over-the-top lyrics, like “With an ironclad fist, I wake up and French kiss the morning,” are delivered with such sincerity that they become endearing rather than cheesy. “Bed Of Roses” is a guilty pleasure power ballad that many secretly (or not so secretly) love to belt out.
19. “Bounce” – Bounce (2002)
Similar to their skill with power ballads, Bon Jovi excels at creating anthemic arena rockers. The title track from their 2002 album, “Bounce,” is arguably one of their most underrated anthems. With its defiant lyrics about overcoming adversity and refusing to stay down, the song resonates with a fighting spirit. The memorable chorus and driving rhythm make “Bounce” a perfect stadium singalong and a testament to Bon Jovi’s ability to create uplifting and energetic rock anthems.
18. “Just Older” – Crush (2000)
“Just Older” offers a mature perspective on life, contrasting with nostalgic songs like Bruce Springsteen’s “Glory Days.” It’s a song about acknowledging the past but focusing on the future and continuing to pursue dreams regardless of age. The second verse, seemingly referencing Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora’s long-standing friendship, adds a layer of poignancy in light of Sambora’s later departure. “Just Older” is a brilliant anthem for those in middle age, celebrating continued ambition and forward-looking optimism.
17. “Never Say Goodbye” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
“Never Say Goodbye” is another example of Bon Jovi’s mastery of the power ballad, this time focusing on the intensity of young love. This song encapsulates the passionate and dramatic nature of high school romance, with all its heightened emotions and sense of urgency. Speculation suggests it might have been inspired by Jon Bon Jovi’s relationship with his high school sweetheart Dorothea Hurley, whom he married in 1989. Regardless of its inspiration, “Never Say Goodbye” remains a beloved power ballad that captures the fervor of youthful romance.
16. “Everyday” – Bounce (2002)
Following the success of Crush, Bon Jovi quickly followed up with Bounce, led by the uplifting single “Everyday.” This track showcased a slightly harder rock edge compared to some of their previous work, while still retaining their signature pop-rock sensibilities. “Everyday” is an anthemic and positive song about finding joy in the ordinary, and its message of optimism has aged exceptionally well. It’s a reminder to appreciate the simple moments and find strength in everyday life.
15. “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” – Keep The Faith (1992)
Even as grunge dominated the music scene in the early 90s, Bon Jovi continued to produce strong pop-rock songs like “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.” While it didn’t achieve massive success on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, it performed much better internationally. The music video, showcasing the band touring Europe and even paying homage to The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night, reflects their global appeal. “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” is a high-energy rocker that demonstrates Bon Jovi’s resilience and continued relevance even as musical trends shifted.
14. “Wild In The Streets” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
Closing out the iconic Slippery When Wet album, “Wild In The Streets” ends the record with a burst of energy. Often considered Bon Jovi’s quintessential party song, it’s a strong contender for that title. Its upbeat tempo and celebratory lyrics evoke a sense of freedom and youthful exuberance. However, Bon Jovi would later release another party anthem that, for some, surpasses “Wild In The Streets” in terms of sheer celebratory energy (spoiler: it’s ranked at #10 on this list).
13. “Born To Be My Baby” – New Jersey (1988)
The irresistible “Na-na-na-na-na” hook of “Born To Be My Baby” is a testament to Bon Jovi’s knack for crafting catchy and memorable choruses. Fans embraced this song, helping it become the band’s fifth top-ten hit within just two years. Its singalong quality and feel-good vibe made it a radio staple and a crowd-pleaser at concerts. “Born To Be My Baby” exemplifies Bon Jovi’s ability to create infectious rock anthems that connect with a wide audience.
12. “Lay Your Hands On Me” – New Jersey (1988)
“Lay Your Hands On Me” kicks off New Jersey with a powerful and slightly suggestive energy. It’s ironic, then, that Dolly Parton later transformed the song into a gospel tune on her 2014 album Blue Smoke. While “laying your hands” can have religious connotations, Bon Jovi’s original intention was undoubtedly more secular and sensual. The song’s versatility and Parton’s reinterpretation highlight its strong musical foundation and adaptable nature.
11. “Raise Your Hands” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
From New York to Tokyo, “Raise Your Hands” is practically guaranteed to get audiences moving. The song’s powerful pre-chorus builds anticipation for an even bigger chorus, creating an irresistible call to action. It’s no surprise that Bon Jovi has performed this song live over 600 times, as its energy and infectious enthusiasm make it a perfect concert opener or crowd-pumping anthem. “Raise Your Hands” is a testament to Bon Jovi’s ability to create songs that are tailor-made for live performance and audience participation.
10. “One Wild Night (2001)” – One Wild Night Live 1985-2001 (2001)
While the original “One Wild Night” appeared on Crush, the remixed “One Wild Night (2001)” version, released as a single from the live album One Wild Night Live 1985-2001, is widely considered superior. This updated version takes the energy of the original to another level, creating an instant party atmosphere. Despite its ranking at number ten, “One Wild Night (2001)” is often overlooked but deserves recognition as one of Bon Jovi’s most exhilarating and celebratory songs. It’s the ultimate Bon Jovi party anthem, perfect for any occasion that calls for high-energy fun.
9. “Always” – Cross Road (1994)
If power ballads are an art form, Bon Jovi are undisputed masters. “Always,” one of the two new songs on their Cross Road greatest hits album, is a quintessential example of their balladry. The song was a global smash hit, and it’s easy to see why with its dreamy lyrics and soaring melody. Lines like, “I’ll wish I was him ’cause those words are mine/To say to you ’till the end of time/Yeah, I will love you, baby, always,” perfectly capture the over-the-top romanticism that Bon Jovi ballads are known for. Even the somewhat bizarre music video can’t detract from the enduring appeal of this classic power ballad.
8. “Runaway” – Bon Jovi (1984)
“Runaway” is the song that started it all for Bon Jovi. The story of Jon Bon Jovi taking a demo of the song to local radio station WAPP and befriending DJ Chip Hobart is now rock and roll legend. Hobart championed “Runaway,” and its local airplay generated buzz that led to the formation of the band Bon Jovi and their subsequent rise to fame. “Runaway” is a testament to the power of local radio and the serendipitous moments that can launch a musical career. It remains a significant song in Bon Jovi’s history, marking the beginning of their incredible journey.
7. “I’ll Be There For You” – New Jersey (1988)
Bon Jovi boasts a deep catalog of power ballads, but “I’ll Be There For You” stands in a league of its own. Jon Bon Jovi’s vocal performance is exceptional, and Richie Sambora’s harmonies perfectly complement his lead vocals. It’s a big, emotional song that manages to avoid sounding excessive or bloated. While some might find the lyrics sentimental, Bon Jovi’s delivery makes them feel genuine and heartfelt. This sincerity is perhaps key to Bon Jovi’s enduring appeal and what set them apart from many of their contemporaries in the 80s.
6. “Keep The Faith” – Keep The Faith (1992)
In 1992, at the height of grunge’s popularity, Bon Jovi defied expectations with “Keep The Faith.” Co-written with Desmond Child, this song marked their return after a hiatus following New Jersey. While the music scene had shifted dramatically, Bon Jovi stayed true to their sound while also demonstrating growth and maturity. “Keep The Faith” proved that they could adapt and remain relevant, becoming a setlist staple and a live highlight nearly three decades later. It’s a testament to their musical integrity and ability to evolve without losing their core identity.
5. “It’s My Life” – Crush (2000)
Similar to “Keep The Faith,” “It’s My Life” marked another successful comeback for Bon Jovi, this time in the nu-metal era. Against the prevailing trends, they delivered a song that sounded both distinctly Bon Jovi and surprisingly contemporary. The collaboration with pop songwriter Max Martin likely contributed to its fresh sound while retaining the band’s core elements. “It’s My Life” was perfectly timed, introducing Bon Jovi to a new generation while reassuring longtime fans that Tommy and Gina were still holding on.
4. “You Give Love A Bad Name” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
Slippery When Wet was a pivotal album for Bon Jovi, and “You Give Love A Bad Name” was the song that catapulted them to superstardom. As the lead single, co-written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Desmond Child, it became their first number one hit. The song’s anthemic chorus, driving rhythm, and rebellious lyrics resonated with audiences and established Bon Jovi as major players in the rock world. “You Give Love A Bad Name” was the breakthrough hit that transformed Bon Jovi’s career and solidified their place in rock history.
3. “Bad Medicine” – New Jersey (1988)
Following the massive success of Slippery When Wet, the pressure was on Bon Jovi to deliver again. With “Bad Medicine,” the lead single from New Jersey, they not only met but exceeded expectations. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Bon Jovi was not a one-hit wonder but a force to be reckoned with. “Bad Medicine” is a high-energy, infectious rock anthem that showcased the band’s confidence and ability to consistently deliver hit after hit. The fact that they could follow up Slippery When Wet with another chart-topping album is a testament to their talent and determination.
2. “Livin’ On A Prayer” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
“Livin’ On A Prayer” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The story of Tommy and Gina, struggling to make ends meet, is universally relatable. This anthemic singalong, another Bon Jovi/Sambora/Child collaboration, is elevated by the iconic talk box guitar solo, becoming a defining element of the track. Tied with “You Give Love A Bad Name” as Bon Jovi’s most performed live song, “Livin’ On A Prayer” is a testament to the power of relatable storytelling and anthemic rock music. It’s a song that unites audiences across generations and continues to resonate deeply with people around the world.
1. “Wanted Dead or Alive” – Slippery When Wet (1986)
“Wanted Dead or Alive” tops our list as the quintessential Bon Jovi song. Evoking Wild West imagery to describe the grueling life on the road, it’s a unique power ballad that transcends romantic love. It’s often considered the 80s rock answer to Bob Seger’s “Turn The Page,” capturing the loneliness and toughness of life as a touring musician. While Bon Jovi attracted a large female fanbase, “Wanted Dead or Alive” resonated strongly with male listeners as well, showcasing a different facet of the band’s appeal. While many songs in their top ten could be argued as their “best,” “Wanted Dead or Alive” feels undeniably Bon Jovi’s signature song, embodying their essence and captivating audiences worldwide. It’s the anthem that confirms they have truly rocked every face in the crowd throughout their incredible career.
