The Best and Worst of Bon Jovi Part 1 (Ep662)

We’re back to take stock of one of the biggest bands to explode out of the 1980’s as we decide The Best and Worst of Bon Jovi!

In this episode, we kick off Part 1 covering every studio album from the self-titled 1984 debut through 2002’s Bounce. The goal was simple: each of us picked one favorite and one least favorite track from every album — no live albums, no compilations — and let the arguments fall where they may.

We start with Bon Jovi and 7800° Fahrenheit. These 2 first albums straddled the line between AOR vibes, solid riffs, keyboard overkill, and rushed timelines for recording. The discussion revolves around early identity, flashes of future greatness, and whether these records are overlooked gems or simply necessary growing pains.

Then it’s into the arena-stratosphere era with Slippery When Wet and New Jersey, where a string of hits vaulted the band into stadiums and MTV dominance. We examine whether the massive singles define the albums or overshadow deeper cuts.

The early ’90s shift begins with Keep the Faith, marking a reinvention in the grunge era, and continues with the darker, more introspective These Days. These records sparked some of the most interesting debate: growth vs accessibility, musicianship vs hooks, and whether deeper cuts like “Dry County” outshine the radio staples.

We wrap Part 1 with the comeback of Crush and the post-9/11 tone of Bounce.

We hope you enjoy The Best and Worst of Bon Jovi Part 1 and SHARE with a friend!

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