The song centers on , a fictional working-class couple in New Jersey struggling to make ends meet.
Released in October 1986, is the signature anthem of American rock band Bon Jovi. Serving as the second single from their multi-platinum third album, Slippery When Wet , it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in 1987. The Story Behind the Song Bon Jovi – Livin’ On a Prayer
Songwriter Desmond Child based Gina on a former girlfriend, Maria Vidal, who worked as a waitress. Jon Bon Jovi has also noted the song was a response to the economic hardships of the Reagan era . Production and Sound The track is famous for several unique musical elements: The song centers on , a fictional working-class
A dockworker whose union is on strike, leaving him "down on his luck". 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in 1987
A diner waitress "workin' for her man" to keep them afloat.