What makes Every Rose Has Its Thorn by Poison notable?

Every Rose Has Its Thorn became a defining power ballad of the late '80s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success helped cement Poison's status as one of the leading bands in the glam metal genre, influencing countless artists who followed in its wake. Released as the third single from Poison's second studio album, 'Open Up and Say... Ahh!', this track marked a pivotal moment in the band's career. At the height of glam metal's popularity, Poison was transitioning from energetic party anthems to more introspective songwriting, signaling their versatility.

How many songs are on Every Rose Has Its Thorn?

Every Rose Has Its Thorn has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Released 38 years ago this October

Every Rose Has Its Thorn

Poison · 1988

7 min · 2 tracks · hard rock

A heartfelt ballad draped in acoustic melancholy, juxtaposed with glam metal bravado and emotional vulnerability.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Every Rose Has Its Thorn — This track epitomizes the emotional depth that can exist within glam metal, showcasing a sensitive side that resonated widely with audiences and became a classic.
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Livin' for the Minute — This energetic opener contrasts sharply with the more subdued title track, capturing the carefree spirit of the era while still maintaining an underlying sense of urgency.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth, though its two tracks create a less cohesive experience.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent acoustic guitar riff that sets a melancholic tone, while the vocal delivery is emotionally charged and reflective.
The second track, 'Livin' for the Minute', shifts to an upbeat tempo with electric guitars, contrasting the ballad's introspective nature.
The arrangement of 'Every Rose Has Its Thorn' includes layered harmonies in the chorus, enhancing its emotional impact.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked a pivotal moment, establishing Poison's reputation in glam metal.
Themes: acoustic melancholy· glam metal vulnerability· party anthem transition
Career context: Released as the third single from Poison's second studio album, 'Open Up and Say... Ahh!', this track marked a pivotal moment in the band's career. At the height of glam metal's popularity, Poison was transitioning from energetic party anthems to more introspective songwriting, signaling their versatility.
Stylistic neighbors: Mötley Crüe· Def Leppard· Cinderella