Bon Jovi, “Livin’ On A Prayer” (RARE Alternate Acoustic Version)

“We’re Halfway There…”

There’s something about Bon Jovi’s ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ that’s already emotional; everyone can relate to feeling like their best just isn’t good enough and not know just how to make those ends meet for just one more day. However, when the song is slowed down the way it is, that triumphant note to the song is gone and in its place, a quiet prayer of sorts takes center stage as Jon Bon Jovi tells the story of the Tommys and Ginas of the world that are just trying to hold on.

This alternate version of ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ is one of our absolute favorites because it’s got a bittersweet note that both tugs at your heart and gives you just enough courage to try again tomorrow.

Featuring only acoustic instruments and Richie Sambora’s voice more prevalent in the background, this alternate version is one that we almost like better than the original. There’s something deeply personal about it that you don’t get with the original featured on Slippery When Wet, almost like Jon is trying to make you understand that it’s his story, too.

These guys have always been world class musicians, but it’s when everything is stripped down to its most raw elements that we’re really able to see and celebrate that!

+ Livin’ On A Prayer lyrics +

Once upon a time not so long ago

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
Working for her man
She brings home her pay for love
For love

She says, “We’ve got to 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”

We’re half way there
Livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand and we’ll make it I swear
Livin’ on a prayer

Tommy got his six string in hock
Now he’s holding in
What he used to make it talk so tough
It’s tough

Gina dreams of running away
When she cries in the night
Tommy whispers, “Baby, it’s okay
Someday”

We’ve got to 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

We’re half way there
Livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand, we’ll make it, I swear
Livin’ on a prayer

We’ve got to hold on ready or not
You live for the fight when it’s all that you’ve got

We’re half way there
Livin’ on a prayer
Take my hand and we’ll make it, I swear
Livin’ on a prayer