Bad Medicine

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as the Zoo Crew spins "Bad Medicine" by Bon Jovi from their iconic New Jersey album! This track, released on September 12, 1988, as the lead single, is a high-energy anthem that hit number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, marking Bon Jovi’s third chart-topping hit. Co-written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and pop maestro Desmond Child, the song’s infectious guitar riffs and gang harmonies were crafted to electrify stadiums. In a 2010 Songfacts interview, Sambora revealed that their songwriting process was simple yet effective, relying on acoustic sessions to ensure the song’s core was undeniable, even when stripped bare. The track’s title came to Sambora during a tumultuous relationship, sparking inspiration on the set of a Fuji commercial in Japan, where he pitched the idea to Jon, leading to multiple rewrites to perfect its punch.

The "Bad Medicine" music video, directed by Wayne Isham, broke new ground by handing cameras to 250 fans to capture the band’s Long Beach, CA performance from their perspective. Jon Bon Jovi told NME they encouraged fans to film anything they wanted, hoping for candid, chaotic footage. The result was a groundbreaking fan-inclusive clip featuring comedian Sam Kinison rallying the crowd, with Jon’s brother Matt even making a cameo in a blue cut-off T-shirt. The video’s raw energy, blending fan-shot and professional footage, gave Bon Jovi a populist edge while maintaining their glam-metal swagger. Fans loved the approach, with 5,000 showing up for the shoot, as Jon noted in a 1988 "Bon Jovi is Back" interview, highlighting the band’s tight bond with their audience.

Another fun tidbit: the song’s recording process echoed the band’s Slippery When Wet days, with demos laid down at Chalet Music in Manasquan, NJ, before heading to Little Mountain Sound in Vancouver. Initially, New Jersey was pitched as a double album titled Sons of Beaches, but Mercury Records nixed the idea, leading to a tight 12-track release. On Reddit’s r/hairmetal, fans still debate the song’s meaning, with one user noting its “bad medicine” metaphor might stem from Native American slang for something harmful, as shared by their Siletz Native family member. Love it or hate it, this track’s unapologetic cheese and relentless energy make it a staple for cranking up at any Zoo Crew party.

Bon Jovi kicked off their journey in Sayreville, New Jersey, in 1983, founded by frontman Jon Bon Jovi. Born John Francis Bongiovi Jr., he started playing music at 13 with his first band, Raze, in 1975, hammering out piano and guitar. By 16, he teamed up with keyboardist David Bryan to form Atlantic City Expressway, gigging at local clubs like the Fast Lane and opening for acts like Southside Johnny. In 1980, Jon fronted the Rest, sharing stages with New Jersey legends. His big break came when “Runaway,” written with George Karak, won a radio contest on WAPP, landing a record deal. Jon assembled Bon Jovi with Richie Sambora (guitar), Alec John Such (bass), Tico Torres (drums), and David Bryan, releasing their self-titled debut in 1984. Sambora, a seasoned player who’d toured with Joe Cocker and auditioned for Kiss, brought grit, while Torres, a veteran of Chuck Berry sessions, added groove. Their third album, Slippery When Wet (1986), skyrocketed them to fame with hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” cementing their hard rock legacy.

Stay connected with Bon Jovi through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts for the latest news, tour dates, and exclusive content. Fans can dive deeper at Backstage with Bon Jovi, the official fan club offering ticket presales and unique merch. On Facebook, groups like Bon Jovi Fans and Bon Jovi Rock Community buzz with Zoo Freak energy, sharing concert stories and rare photos. Whether you’re a die-hard or just vibing to “Bad Medicine,” these spots keep the Bon Jovi spirit alive and rocking.