About the song
Released in 1994, this power ballad has transcended generations to become a timeless love song. Even for those unfamiliar with the extensive catalogue of the New Jersey rockers, the opening piano riff of Always is instantly recognizable, a poignant melody that sets the stage for Jon Bon Jovi’s soaring vocals.
Always wasn’t originally intended for Bon Jovi. The song was written by Jon Bon Jovi for the soundtrack of the 1994 film “Romeo Is Bleeding.” While the film itself didn’t garner much critical acclaim, Always became a runaway success, topping the charts in multiple countries and selling millions of copies worldwide. It remains one of Bon Jovi’s best-selling singles and a staple on classic rock radio.
There’s a fascinating duality to Always. On the surface, it’s a love song with lyrics that profess unwavering devotion: “I’ll walk through fire for you / Just let me hold you near.” However, some interpretations delve deeper, suggesting a more obsessive or even stalkerish undercurrent. Jon Bon Jovi himself has acknowledged this ambiguity, stating that the song’s lyrics can be read as “a sick little twisted lyric.” This complexity adds a layer of intrigue to the song, allowing listeners to connect with it on a personal level,
Always marked a significant shift in Bon Jovi’s sound. Their earlier albums were known for their high-octane rock anthems, but Always showcased a softer, more introspective side. The power ballad format, with its emphasis on strong vocals and emotional lyrics, proved to be a successful formula. Always paved the way for a string of similar ballads from Bon Jovi in the years to come, solidifying their place as one of the biggest rock bands of the era.
The song’s impact extends far beyond album sales and chart positions. Always has become a ubiquitous presence at weddings, graduations, and other momentous occasions. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universality of its theme – a love that transcends time and circumstance. Whether interpreted as a straightforward declaration of devotion or a more complex exploration of obsession, Always continues to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
Video
Lyrics
“Always”
But you can’t see his blood
It’s nothing but some feelings
That this old dog kicked up
It’s been raining since you left me
Now I’m drowning in the flood
You see I’ve always been a fighter
But without you I give up
I can’t sing a love song
Like the way it’s meant to be
Well, I guess I’m not that good anymore
But, baby, that’s just me
Yeah, I will love you, baby, always
And I’ll be there forever and a day, always
I’ll be there ’til the stars don’t shine
‘Til the heavens burst and the words don’t rhyme
And I know when I die
You’ll be on my mind
And I’ll love you always
Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some that made us laugh, some that made us cry
One that made you have to say goodbye
What I’d give to run my fingers through your hair
To touch your lips, to hold you near
When you say your prayers, try to understand
I’ve made mistakes, I’m just a man
When he holds you close, when he pulls you near
When he says the words you’ve been needing to hear
I’ll wish I was him ’cause those words are mine
To say to you ’til the end of time
Yeah, I will love you, baby, always
And I’ll be there forever and a day, always
If you told me to cry for you
I could
If you told me to die for you
I would
Take a look at my face
There’s no price I won’t pay
To say these words to you
Well, there ain’t no luck
In these loaded dice
But, baby, if you give me just one more try
We can pack up our old dreams and our old lives
We’ll find a place where the sun still shines
And I will love you, baby, always
And I’ll be there forever and a day, always
I’ll be there ’til the stars don’t shine
‘Til the heavens burst and the words don’t rhyme
And I know when I die
You’ll be on my mind
And I’ll love you, always
Always
Oh baby, don’t you do me no wrong
Baby, don’t you do me no wrong
Oh baby, don’t you do me no wrong, oh no
Oh, yeah, yeah yeah yeah