In and Out of Love

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as we spin "In and Out of Love" by Bon Jovi from their 1985 album 7800° Fahrenheit here at THE ZOO! This high-energy track, a staple of the band’s early glam metal sound, was written by Jon Bon Jovi while watching MTV's Top 20 Video Countdown, capturing the raw, youthful vibe of the era. The song’s music video, directed by Martin Kahan, features a quirky "Chyron" version with captions like "Tuesday...must be England" and "Wednesday...N.J.,USA!" flashing across the screen, adding a playful touch to the band’s road-tripping visuals. Cash Box magazine praised the track, noting that it "kicks into gear from the start and never lets go" with its strong melody. Peaking at No. 69 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 37 on the Billboard Rock chart in 1985, it’s a fan favorite that still gets fists pumping, though the band rarely plays it live, making it a hidden gem in their catalog.

Another cool tidbit about "In and Out of Love" is its place in 7800° Fahrenheit’s story. The album, recorded in just six weeks at Warehouse Studios in Philadelphia, was a tough period for the band. Jon Bon Jovi later recalled legal hassles with a production company that claimed a stake in the band, forcing them to carry master tapes to and from the studio to prevent theft. The band’s heartbreak during this time—every member had lost their girlfriend—seeped into the album’s emotional tone, giving tracks like "In and Out of Love" a raw, cathartic edge. Despite the band’s later dissatisfaction with the album’s sound, fans on platforms like X still call it an underrated classic, with posts praising its “stomping, hands in the air” energy and Richie Sambora’s killer guitar riffs.

Let’s rewind to how Bon Jovi got their start. Formed in Sayreville, New Jersey, in 1983, the band was spearheaded by Jon Bon Jovi, who began performing at 13 with his first band, Raze, playing 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. In his teens, Jon fronted John Bongiovi and the Wild Ones, opening for local acts. The turning point came in 1983 when Jon’s song "Runaway," co-written with George Karak, won a radio talent contest, landing him a recording contract. He quickly assembled Bon Jovi with Richie Sambora (guitar), Alec John Such (bass), Tico Torres (drums), and David Bryan (keyboards). Their self-titled debut in 1984, featuring "Runaway," hit No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100, setting the stage for their rise. By the time 7800° Fahrenheit dropped in 1985, they were touring with Ratt and headlining in Japan and Europe, cementing their place in rock history.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with Bon Jovi on their official website for tour dates, merch, and exclusive content like Backstage with Bon Jovi. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates, from throwback photos to new music teases. Fans are also buzzing in communities like the Bon Jovi Fans Facebook Group, where diehards share concert memories and debate the merits of 7800° Fahrenheit. For more fan-driven content, check out Bon Jovi Official, a hub for news, forums, and fan events. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let’s keep rocking with Bon Jovi!