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Meaning and Lyrics of Livin’ On A Prayer by Bon Jovi

Song Lyrics meaning of Livin’ On A Prayer by Bon Jovi

About Bon Jovi

Jon Bon Jovi is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and actor. He is best known as the founder and lead vocalist of the rock band Bon Jovi, which was formed in 1983. Bon Jovi has released numerous hit albums and singles over the years, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music industry. One of Bon Jovi’s most popular songs is Livin’ On A Prayer, released in 1986 as part of the album “Slippery When Wet.” The song became an anthem for the band and remains a classic rock hit to this day. With its catchy melody and powerful vocals, “Livin’ On A Prayer” has solidified Bon Jovi’s status as a rock music icon.

Meaning of Livin' On A Prayer by Bon Jovi

“Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi tells the story of a working-class couple, Tommy and Gina, who are facing tough times but remain hopeful and dedicated to each other.

The song portrays Tommy as a man who used to work on the docks but is now struggling due to the union strike. Gina, on the other hand, works hard at a diner to support them both. Despite their challenges, they are committed to each other and their love. The lyrics depict their resilience in the face of adversity and their determination to make things work.

The chorus, with its iconic line “Woah-oh, livin’ on a prayer,” emphasizes the idea that sometimes all you have is hope and the love you share. The image of being “halfway there” conveys the notion that they are still on the journey, not yet at their destination, but holding onto each other will see them through.

The bridge reinforces the message of perseverance and living for the struggle when that’s all they have. The song’s overall theme speaks to the power of love, hope, and resilience in overcoming challenges and difficult circumstances.

Musically, the song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and memorable guitar solo add to its anthemic quality, making it a well-loved and inspirational classic. “Livin’ On A Prayer” is not only a rock anthem but also a tale of love and perseverance that resonates with many listeners.

Lyrics of Livin' On A Prayer by Bon Jovi

Intro
Once upon a time, not so long ago

Verse 1
Tommy used to work on the docks
Union's been on strike, he's down on his luck
It's tough
So tough
Gina works the diner all day
Workin' for her man, she brings home her pay
For love
Mm, for love

Pre-Chorus
She says, "We've gotta hold on to what we've got
It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not
We've got each other and that's a lot for love
We'll give it a shot"

Chorus
Woah, we're halfway there
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand, we'll make it, I swear
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer

Verse 2
Tommy's got his six-string in hock
Now he's holdin' in, when he used to make it talk
So tough
Ooh, it's tough
Gina dreams of runnin' away
When she cries in the night, Tommy whispers
"Baby, it's okay
Someday"

Pre-Chorus
We've gotta hold on to what we've got
It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not
We've got each other and that's a lot for love
We'll give it a shot

Chorus
Woah, we're halfway there
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand, we'll make it I swear
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer, livin' on a prayer

Guitar Solo

Bridge
Ooh, we gotta hold on, ready or not
You live for the fight when that's all that you've got

Chorus
Woah, we're halfway there
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand and we'll make it, I swear
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Woah, we're halfway there
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand and we'll make it, I swear
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Woah, we're halfway there
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand and we'll make it, I swear
Woah-oh, livin' on a prayer

Discography Bon Jovi

Forever

Release: 2024-06-07

Label: Bon Jovi Profit Split

Popularity: 👏👏👏

1. Legendary
2. We Made It Look Easy
3. Living Proof
4. Waves
5. Seeds
6. Kiss The Bride
7. The People’s House
8. Walls of Jericho
9. I Wrote You A Song
10. Living in Paradise
11. My First Guitar
12. Hollow Man

Tracklist Collapse

Bon Jovi (Deluxe Edition)

Release: 2024-01-24

Label: Bon Jovi Profit Split

Popularity: 👏👏

1. Runaway
2. Roulette
3. She Don’t Know Me
4. Shot Through The Heart
5. Love Lies
6. Breakout
7. Burning For Love
8. Come Back
9. Get Ready
10. Runaway – Cassette Writing Demo
11. Runaway – Pre-production Studio Demo
12. Runaway – Alternate Version
13. Runaway – Extended Version / 2024 Mix
14. Come Back – Reference Vocal Version
15. Roulette – Live In Tokyo, 1985 – Obie O’Brien Mix
16. Breakout – Live In Tokyo, 1985 – Obie O’Brien Mix
17. Runaway – Live In Tokyo, 1985 – Obie O’Brien Mix
18. Get Ready – Live In Tokyo, 1985 – Obie O’Brien Mix

Tracklist Collapse

2020 (Deluxe)

Release: 2020-10-05

Label: Captain Kidd Corp.

Popularity: 👏👏

1. Limitless
2. Do What You Can
3. American Reckoning
4. Beautiful Drug
5. Story Of Love
6. Let It Rain
7. Lower The Flag
8. Blood In The Water
9. Brothers In Arms
10. Unbroken
11. Do What You Can – Bonus Track
12. Shine – Bonus Track
13. Luv Can – Bonus Track

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