band Bon Jovi performing “You Give Love A Bad Name” on stage in 1988.

About the song

You Give Love a Bad Name: A Classic Rock Anthem
Bon Jovi’s “You Give Love a Bad Name” is a timeless rock anthem that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1986 as the lead single from their album Slippery When Wet, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy melody, energetic guitar riffs, and Jon Bon Jovi’s powerful vocals have made it a staple of classic rock radio.

The song’s lyrics tell a tale of heartbreak and betrayal. A woman, who has left her lover for another, is depicted as a “bad name” for love itself. Bon Jovi’s raw and emotional delivery captures the pain and anger of being jilted, while the band’s driving music adds to the intensity of the song.

Despite its negative theme, “You Give Love a Bad Name” has become a celebration of love and resilience. The song’s anthemic quality has made it a popular choice for sporting events, concerts, and other gatherings. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Bon Jovi’s enduring legacy.

Video

Lyrics

Shot through the heart and you’re to blame
Darling, you give love a bad name

An angel’s smile is what you sell
You promised 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

Whoa, 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)
Yeah, 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
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)
You give love a—

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, bad name