“You Give Love a Bad Name” is a song by American rock band Bon Jovi, released on July 23, 1986 with “Raise Your Hands” on the B-side as the lead single from their third album, Slippery When Wet. Written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Desmond Child, the song became one of the band’s biggest hits and helped catapult them to international stardom during the 1980s.
“You Give Love a Bad Name” is a high-energy rock song that blends hard rock with pop hooks, creating an anthemic sound. The track features powerful guitar riffs by Richie Sambora, a driving rhythm section, and Jon Bon Jovi’s passionate vocals. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it one of the most recognizable rock anthems of the 1980s.
The lyrics of “You Give Love a Bad Name” revolve around betrayal and heartbreak in a romantic relationship. The narrator expresses frustration and anger toward a lover who has been unfaithful, using the metaphor of love being like a weapon that was turned against him. The line “Shot through the heart, and you’re to blame, you give love a bad name” became iconic, capturing the pain of betrayal.
“You Give Love a Bad Name” was a massive commercial success. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, becoming the band’s first No. 1 hit. The song also performed well internationally, charting in the top 10 in several countries.
“You Give Love a Bad Name” remains one of Bon Jovi’s signature songs and a defining track of the 1980s rock era. It played a key role in establishing the band as one of the biggest rock acts of the decade. The song’s anthemic quality, memorable guitar riffs, and infectious chorus make it a staple at live performances and a favorite among fans.