About the song
In the year 2000, Bon Jovi unleashed a song that would become a defining anthem for a generation. “It’s My Life” wasn’t just another rock song; it was a declaration of independence, a battle cry for taking charge of your own destiny.
The song arrived on the heels of Bon Jovi’s highly successful 80s era, bringing back familiar elements like Richie Sambora’s signature talk box. However, “It’s My Life” also marked a new chapter for the band. With songwriting contributions from Jon Bon Jovi, Sambora, and pop powerhouse Max Martin, the track boasted a fresh energy that resonated with a younger audience.
The lyrics are a powerful statement of self-reliance. Lines like “Gotta go my own way” and “It’s my life” became rallying cries for those seeking to break free from societal pressures and carve their own path. The song also paid homage to Bon Jovi’s roots with a sly reference to their working-class heroes, Tommy and Gina, from the earlier hit “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the song lies in its nod to legendary crooner Frank Sinatra. The line “My heart is like an open highway / Like Frankie said / I did it ‘My Way'” sparked a playful debate between Bon Jovi and Sambora. While Sambora questioned the relevance of referencing Sinatra to a younger audience, Bon Jovi held firm, recognizing Sinatra’s embodiment of self-determination and perseverance – qualities that resonated deeply with the song’s message.
“It’s My Life” wasn’t just a hit; it was a phenomenon. It topped charts worldwide, becoming Bon Jovi’s most recognizable post-80s single. The accompanying music video, directed by Wayne Isham, further solidified the song’s message of chasing dreams. The high-octane visuals, featuring actors Will Estes and Shiri Appleby defying authority and navigating obstacles to attend a Bon Jovi concert, mirrored the song’s theme of defying expectations and taking control.
Today, “It’s My Life” remains a timeless anthem. With over a billion views on YouTube, it continues to inspire listeners to embrace their individuality and carve their own unique path. The song is a testament to Bon Jovi’s enduring legacy and their ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Video
Lyrics
This ain’t a song for the broken-hearted
No silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain’t gonna be just a face in the crowd
You’re gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud
It’s my life
It’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
My heart is like the open highway
Like Frankie said, “I did it my way”
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
This is for the ones who stood their ground
It’s for Tommy and Gina who never backed down
Tomorrow’s getting harder, make no mistake
Luck ain’t enough, you’ve got to make your own breaks
It’s my life
It’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
My heart is like the open highway
Like Frankie said, “I did it my way”
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
You better stand tall when they’re calling you out
Don’t bend, don’t break, baby, don’t back down
It’s my life
It’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
My heart is like the open highway
Like Frankie said, “I did it my way”
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life