Shot through the heart and you’re to blame
Darling, you give love a bad name
An angel’s smile is what you sell
You promised me heaven, then put me through hell
Chains of love got a hold on me
When passion’s a prison, you can’t break free
Whoa, you’re a loaded gun, yeah
Oh, there’s nowhere to run
No one can save me, the damage is done
Shot through the heart and you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
Yeah, you give love a bad name
Paint your smile on your lips
Blood red nails on your fingertips
A school boy’s dream, you act so shy
Your very first kiss was your first kiss goodbye
Whoa, you’re a loaded gun
Oh, there’s nowhere to run
No one can save me, the damage is done
Shot through the heart and you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
You give love a—
Oh, shot through the heart and you’re to blame
You give love a bad name
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
Shot through the heart and you’re to blame
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
I play my part and you play your game
You give love a bad name (Bad name)
You give love
You give love, bad name
You give love
You give love, bad name
You give love
You give love, bad name
You give love
You give love, bad name
Betrayal and Heartbreak: The Message Behind the Lyrics
“You Give Love A Bad Name” by Bon Jovi is a powerful anthem that explores the pain of betrayal in a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of trust broken by someone who once promised love and happiness but instead brought heartbreak. With lines like “Shot through the heart and you’re to blame,” the song uses dramatic imagery to capture the emotional impact of being deceived by a loved one. The recurring references to games and masks highlight the duplicity and manipulation that can exist behind a seemingly angelic exterior. Ultimately, the song resonates with anyone who has experienced love turned sour, expressing both anger and resilience through its energetic delivery.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Desmond Child
Release Year: 1986
Label: Mercury Records