About the song
Released in 2000, “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi became an anthem for personal empowerment and resilience, solidifying the band’s presence in the new millennium. Written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Max Martin, this song marked a significant moment in Bon Jovi’s career, as it brought them back into the spotlight with a fresh sound that appealed to both longtime fans and a younger generation. The track was featured on their album Crush, which was their first studio release after a five-year break.
“It’s My Life” is a declaration of independence and living life on one’s own terms. With its catchy chorus and driving beat, the song immediately captured the attention of listeners worldwide. The lyrics, “It’s my life, it’s now or never, I ain’t gonna live forever,” resonated with people facing personal challenges or striving for something more. The song also makes a nod to Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” linking the message of living boldly to an earlier era of musical defiance and self-expression.
The single was a huge commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries, including the UK, Spain, and Italy. In the U.S., it reached No. 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the most popular rock songs of the early 2000s. The music video, directed by Wayne Isham, featured a young man running through New York City to make it to a Bon Jovi concert, further emphasizing the song’s message of urgency and seizing the moment.
For Bon Jovi, “It’s My Life” became a career-defining track, showing their ability to evolve while staying true to their rock roots. It continues to be a staple in their live performances, evoking crowd sing-alongs and standing as one of the band’s most enduring hits. The song’s universal message of self-determination and its energetic, anthemic style ensure its place as a classic in both Bon Jovi’s catalog and in rock music history.