On this day May 13, 1989, Bon Jovi reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 with the power ballad I’ll Be There for You. The song held the top spot through May 19 and became one of the most memorable hits from their multi platinum album New Jersey. With its soaring vocals, emotional lyrics and signature guitar work, the single showcased the band’s softer side while still keeping their rock edge intact.
I’ll Be There for You followed a string of successful singles for Bon Jovi in the late 1980s and helped further establish the band as a dominant force in mainstream rock. The track received heavy rotation on radio and MTV, appealing to fans of both rock anthems and heartfelt ballads. It stood out in a decade packed with big hair and big hooks, proving that Bon Jovi could deliver both arena energy and emotional depth.
The success of the single contributed to the lasting impact of the New Jersey album, which remains one of the most successful rock records of the late 1980s.
Fun fact: I’ll Be There for You was Bon Jovi’s fourth number one hit in the United States and solidified their status as one of the top rock bands of the decade.
I’ll Be There for You followed a string of successful singles for Bon Jovi in the late 1980s and helped further establish the band as a dominant force in mainstream rock. The track received heavy rotation on radio and MTV, appealing to fans of both rock anthems and heartfelt ballads. It stood out in a decade packed with big hair and big hooks, proving that Bon Jovi could deliver both arena energy and emotional depth.
The success of the single contributed to the lasting impact of the New Jersey album, which remains one of the most successful rock records of the late 1980s.
Fun fact: I’ll Be There for You was Bon Jovi’s fourth number one hit in the United States and solidified their status as one of the top rock bands of the decade.
