What makes What It Takes by Aerosmith notable?

This album contains the hit single 'What It Takes', which reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, contributing to Aerosmith's resurgence in popularity. It reinforced their ability to blend rock with powerful ballads, appealing to a wider audience and solidifying their place in rock history during a competitive era. In 1989, Aerosmith was revitalizing their career after a decade of ups and downs. Released just before their major comeback with 'Pump', this album marked a critical point in their trajectory as they transitioned back to mainstream success after struggling in the early 1980s.

How many songs are on What It Takes?

What It Takes has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

What It Takes

Aerosmith · 1989

7 min · 2 tracks · hard rock

Bluesy ballads and hard-hitting rock anthems collide, showcasing emotional depth and gritty honesty.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What It Takes — As the lead single, this track captures the heart of the album with its poignant lyrics about love and regret, underscored by a powerful vocal performance from Steven Tyler.
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Monkey on My Back — This song delves into themes of addiction and struggle, delivering a raw energy that highlights the band's harder rock edge while resonating with listeners facing personal demons.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single contributed to Aerosmith's resurgence and wider recognition in the late '80s.
Themes: addiction struggles· love and regret· rock revival· personal demons
Moods: Romantic· Melancholy
Career context: In 1989, Aerosmith was revitalizing their career after a decade of ups and downs. Released just before their major comeback with 'Pump', this album marked a critical point in their trajectory as they transitioned back to mainstream success after struggling in the early 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors: Led Zeppelin· Van Halen· Guns N' Roses