About the song
In the year 2000, when the millennium bug was a real concern and boy bands ruled the airwaves, a rock anthem emerged that cut through the noise and resonated with people of all ages. Bon Jovi, the band that had once defined the sound of the 80s, returned with a track that proved they were far from over the hill. “It’s My Life” wasn’t just a song; it was a declaration, a rallying cry for anyone who had ever felt trapped or unfulfilled.
The track, a standout from their album Crush, marked a departure from some of Bon Jovi’s earlier ballads. While they had always been known for their power ballads and anthems, “It’s My Life” had a more raw, energetic feel, infused with a youthful exuberance that belied the band members’ advancing years. This blend of old-school rock and contemporary production was a winning formula, appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.
At its core, “It’s My Life” is a song about seizing the day and living life on your own terms. The lyrics, co-written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Max Martin, are filled with references to iconic figures like Frank Sinatra, who famously declared, “I did it my way.” This intergenerational nod connects the song to a rich history of rebellious anthems while also making it feel fresh and relevant.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, it tapped into a universal desire for freedom and self-expression. Second, the music video, directed by Wayne Isham, was visually striking and helped to propel the song up the charts. And finally, the band’s tireless promotion of the track, including performances on countless television shows, ensured that “It’s My Life” received maximum exposure.
In the years since its release, “It’s My Life” has become a bona fide classic. It’s been covered by countless artists, sampled in countless remixes, and used in countless movies and TV shows. Yet, it still has the power to move people. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bon Jovi or you’re just discovering their music for the first time, there’s something undeniably compelling about this song. It’s a reminder that no matter how old you get, it’s never too late to live life to the fullest.
Video
Lyrics
This ain’t a song for the broken hearted
No silent prayer for the faith departed
And 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
But I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, “I did it my way”
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
It’s now or never
But I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, “I did it my way”
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life