The Making of Slippery When Wet – Bon Jovi’s Breakthrough

Introduction

In 1986, Bon Jovi released their third studio album, “Slippery When Wet,” which became a defining moment in their career and in rock music history. The album catapulted the band to international stardom, with its infectious hooks and anthemic choruses capturing the spirit of the 1980s. With hits like “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” the album not only dominated the charts but also cemented Bon Jovi’s status as rock icons.

This article delves into the creation, recording process, and impact of “Slippery When Wet,” offering an exhaustive exploration of the album’s journey from inception to its enduring legacy. We will examine the band’s evolution, the cultural context of the 1980s, and the album’s reception and influence on future artists. Additionally, we’ll provide insights into the tracks and their meanings, as well as the promotional strategies that propelled the album to success.

Attribute	Details
Release date	18 August 1986
Album title	Slippery When Wet
Genre	Glam metal, pop metal, pop rock, hard rock
Total runtime	43:49
Number of tracks	10
Record label	Mercury (NA), Vertigo (WW)
Recording studio	Little Mountain, Vancouver, Canada
Producer(s)	Bruce Fairbairn

The impact of “Slippery When Wet” is undeniable, as it played a pivotal role in bringing glam metal into the mainstream. As Jon Bon Jovi himself once said,

"This album was about giving the fans what they wanted, and they responded."
  -Jon Bon Jovi

Indeed, the album’s legacy continues to influence musicians and captivate audiences worldwide.

The Genesis of “Slippery When Wet”

As the mid-1980s approached, Bon Jovi was on the cusp of a major breakthrough. Their previous albums had laid the groundwork, but it was clear that something special was needed to propel them to the next level. The cultural landscape was ripe for change, with audiences eager for music that was both accessible and exciting. Glam metal, with its blend of catchy melodies and hard rock energy, was gaining momentum.

Bon Jovi’s journey to “Slippery When Wet” began with their earlier works, “Bon Jovi” (1984) and “7800° Fahrenheit” (1985). These albums showcased the band’s potential, but it was their desire to refine their sound that drove them forward. Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora, the band’s primary songwriters, sought to create music that resonated with a wider audience. They enlisted the help of songwriter Desmond Child, whose collaboration was instrumental in crafting the album’s hit singles.

The creative team behind “Slippery When Wet” included the core band members, along with producer Bruce Fairbairn and mixer Bob Rock. Their combined expertise and vision resulted in an album that would become a cultural phenomenon. Below is a table listing the band members and their roles:

Band Member	Instrument
Jon Bon Jovi	Lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Richie Sambora	Lead guitar, backing vocals
David Bryan	Keyboards, backing vocals
Alec John Such	Bass guitar, backing vocals
Tico Torres	Drums, percussion

The recording costs were financed by the record label, Mercury, with a budget that reflected the high stakes involved. The album’s title, “Slippery When Wet,” was inspired by a visit to a Vancouver strip club, adding a touch of cheeky humour to the project. The original album cover, featuring a woman in a wet T-shirt, was replaced due to concerns over its provocative nature, leading to the iconic black garbage bag design.

Recording Process

The recording of “Slippery When Wet” took place at Little Mountain Sound Studios in Vancouver, Canada, a location renowned for its cutting-edge facilities and creative atmosphere. The sessions began in early 1986, with the band and production team focused on capturing a sound that was both polished and powerful. The studio’s reputation for excellence attracted top talent, including producer Bruce Fairbairn, whose previous work with artists like Black ‘n Blue had impressed Jon Bon Jovi.

Key personnel in the recording process included Bob Rock, who served as the engineering and mixing wizard behind the album’s crisp sound. His expertise in creating radio-friendly rock anthems was crucial to the project’s success. The following table outlines the likely hardware used during the sessions, based on the studio’s capabilities at the time:

Equipment	Details
Microphones	Neumann U87, Shure SM57
Mixing Desk	SSL 4000 series
Compressors	UREI 1176, LA-2A
Guitars	Fender Stratocaster, Gibson Les Paul
Amplifiers	Marshall JCM800, Vox AC30

One of the challenges faced during recording was the pressure to deliver a commercially successful album. However, the team’s dedication and synergy overcame these hurdles, resulting in a polished product. Bruce Fairbairn’s production prowess is evident in the album’s dynamic sound, as he skillfully balanced the band’s raw energy with the polished sheen required for mainstream appeal.

Fairbairn’s discography includes a number of influential albums, showcasing his ability to bring out the best in rock bands. Below is a table of notable albums he produced, highlighting his role in each:

Producer	Artist	Album	Year
Bruce Fairbairn	Aerosmith	Permanent Vacation	1987
Bruce Fairbairn	Aerosmith	Pump	1989
Bruce Fairbairn	AC/DC	The Razors Edge	1990
Bruce Fairbairn	Van Halen	Balance	1995

Commercial Performance and Reception

“Slippery When Wet” was a commercial juggernaut, dominating charts worldwide and establishing Bon Jovi as a household name. The album spent eight weeks at the top of the Billboard 200 and became the best-selling album of 1987 in the United States. Its success was not limited to North America; it achieved multi-platinum status in several countries, reflecting its global appeal.

The following table provides an overview of Bon Jovi’s studio albums, including “Slippery When Wet,” highlighting its impressive sales figures:

Album Title	Year	Sales Data
Bon Jovi	1984	1,170,000
7800° Fahrenheit	1985	1,160,000
Slippery When Wet	1986	16,964,277
New Jersey	1988	19,000,000
Keep the Faith	1992	5,549,522

The album’s accolades include numerous awards and certifications, such as RIAA’s 12x Platinum in the United States and Diamond status in Canada. Its impact extended beyond sales, as it set a new standard for glam metal and influenced countless artists in the genre.

In 1986, several other notable albums were released, contributing to a vibrant year in music. These include:

Master of Puppets by Metallica
Reign in Blood by Slayer
The Ultimate Sin by Ozzy Osbourne
Somewhere in Time by Iron Maiden

Overall, “Slippery When Wet” received numerous awards and recognitions, further cementing its place in rock history. Its success is a testament to the band’s talent and the album’s timeless appeal.

Track Analysis

The singles from “Slippery When Wet” played a crucial role in its success, each contributing to the album’s widespread acclaim. The first single, “You Give Love a Bad Name,” released on July 23, 1986, became an instant hit, followed by “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” and “Never Say Goodbye.” These tracks showcased the band’s ability to craft memorable hooks and relatable lyrics.

Below is a detailed table of the album’s tracks, including their lengths and writing credits:

Track Name	Length	Writing Credit
Let It Rock	5:24	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
You Give Love A Bad Name*	3:43	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Desmond Child
Livin’ On A Prayer*	4:10	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Desmond Child
Social Disease	4:18	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
Wanted Dead Or Alive*	5:08	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
Raise Your Hands	4:18	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
Without Love	3:40	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Desmond Child
I’d Die For You	4:31	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Desmond Child
Never Say Goodbye*	4:50	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
Wild In The Streets	3:54	Jon Bon Jovi

Note: Tracks marked with * were released as singles. “You Give Love A Bad Name” and “Livin’ On A Prayer” both reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, while “Wanted Dead Or Alive” peaked at No. 7.

The singles’ chart success and enduring popularity underscore their significance in Bon Jovi’s discography and their role in defining the band’s legacy.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The lyrics of “Slippery When Wet” are a testament to Bon Jovi’s knack for storytelling and emotional resonance. The album’s singles, in particular, explore themes of love, perseverance, and the struggles of everyday life. “You Give Love a Bad Name” tells the story of a toxic relationship, using vivid metaphors to convey betrayal and heartbreak. As Jon Bon Jovi explains, the song captures the pain of being deceived by a partner who presents a false facade.

“Livin’ on a Prayer” is perhaps the most iconic track, depicting the struggles of Tommy and Gina, a working-class couple facing financial hardships. The song’s hopeful message and anthemic chorus have made it a timeless anthem of resilience. Richie Sambora’s use of the talkbox adds a distinctive sound, enhancing the song’s emotional impact.

“Wanted Dead or Alive” draws parallels between the life of a touring musician and that of an outlaw, capturing the loneliness and freedom of life on the road. The imagery of a “steel horse” and the pursuit of belonging resonate with listeners, highlighting the song’s introspective nature.

Finally, “Never Say Goodbye” serves as a poignant ballad about enduring love and the bittersweet nature of parting. Its lyrics evoke nostalgia and a longing to hold onto cherished memories, making it a fan favourite.

Touring and Promotion of Slippery When Wet

The promotion of “Slippery When Wet” was a carefully orchestrated effort that included music videos, live performances, and strategic marketing. The band capitalized on the rising influence of MTV, with visually engaging videos for “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer” receiving heavy rotation. These videos helped cement the band’s image and reach a broader audience.

The “Slippery When Wet” tour was a massive undertaking, featuring 77 shows across various continents. The tour kicked off in Canada and included stops in Japan, Australia, Europe, and the United States. Notable performances included a New Year’s Eve show at Meadowlands Arena in New Jersey and appearances at major festivals like Monsters of Rock in England.

During 1986, Bon Jovi shared the stage with several prominent acts, including Cinderella, Queensrÿche, and Judas Priest. These collaborations helped expand their fan base and solidify their reputation as a must-see live act. The tour’s success was a testament to the band’s hard work and the album’s widespread appeal.

Influences and Legacy

The creation of “Slippery When Wet” was influenced by a variety of musical styles and artists. Bon Jovi drew inspiration from glam metal, pop rock, and hard rock, blending these genres to create a sound that was both accessible and powerful. The band’s collaboration with Desmond Child also brought a pop sensibility to their songwriting, resulting in catchy hooks and memorable choruses.

Below is a table outlining the influences on “Slippery When Wet” and the artists who were subsequently influenced by the album:

Influences on “Slippery When Wet”	Artists Influenced by “Slippery When Wet”
Def Leppard	Nickelback
Aerosmith	Foo Fighters
KISS	The Killers

Released in 1986, “Slippery When Wet” was part of a transformative year in music. The same year saw significant global events, such as the Chernobyl disaster and the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion, which shaped the cultural landscape. In cinema, films like “Top Gun” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” captivated audiences, reflecting the diverse interests of the time.

Five Things about Slippery When Wet

“Slippery When Wet” is an album rich with intriguing facts and stories. Here are five fascinating details about the album:

Fact	Details
Original Title	The album was initially titled “Wanted Dead or Alive.”
Inspiration for Title	Inspired by a visit to a Vancouver strip club, the title reflects the band’s playful side.
Cover Art Change	The original cover featuring a wet T-shirt was replaced due to concerns over its provocative nature.
Hidden Track	An early version of “Livin’ on a Prayer” is hidden on the box set “100,000,000 Bon Jovi Fans Can’t Be Wrong.”
Sales Milestone	The album has sold over 16 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Media and Television Usage

The songs from “Slippery When Wet” have been featured in various media, enhancing their cultural impact. Below is a table of known media appearances:

Song Title	Media	Year
Wanted Dead Or Alive	Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed	2004
Wanted Dead Or Alive	Lou	2022
Livin’ On A Prayer	Don’t Make Me Go	2022
You Give Love A Bad Name	The Fall Guy	2024

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Upon its release, “Slippery When Wet” received a mix of critical acclaim and scepticism. Over time, however, its status as a classic has been solidified. The album’s infectious energy and memorable tracks have earned it a place in the hearts of fans and critics alike.

Below is a table summarizing some of the critical reviews and retrospectives:

Publication	Review Score	Notable Quote
Hair and Flannel	9.5/10	“One of the best hair metal albums, showcasing top-notch pop-rock songwriting.”
Society Of Rock	N/A	“A template for future musicians, despite some cheesy moments.”
Mikeladano.com	3/5	“A landmark album for Bon Jovi, though not necessarily their best work.”

After Slippery When Wet

Following the success of “Slippery When Wet,” Bon Jovi continued to build on their momentum with subsequent releases. Their next album, “New Jersey,” further solidified their status as rock superstars, achieving similar commercial success. Over the years, the band has experienced lineup changes, most notably the departure of guitarist Richie Sambora in 2013. Despite these changes, Bon Jovi has remained a beloved fixture in the rock music scene.

As of 2024, Bon Jovi continues to create music and engage with their fans. Their latest album, “Forever,” showcases the band’s enduring talent and adaptability. Jon Bon Jovi’s journey through vocal challenges and personal growth has only strengthened his resolve to continue performing and connecting with audiences worldwide.

Remasters and Reissues

Over the years, “Slippery When Wet” has seen several remasters and reissues, each offering fans a chance to experience the album anew. Below is a table of the known remasters and reissues:

Edition	Date
Remastered CD	15 November 2024
2010 Special Edition	2010

The remastered editions often include enhanced audio quality and additional content, such as live tracks and bonus material. These releases allow both new listeners and longtime fans to appreciate the album’s timeless appeal.

Conclusion

“Slippery When Wet” remains a vital part of rock history, its impact felt across generations. The album’s blend of catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances continue to resonate with audiences today. Bon Jovi’s ability to capture the spirit of the 1980s while maintaining relevance in the modern era is a testament to their enduring talent and appeal.