Introduction
“Bang a Drum” is a song with an interesting history, spanning genres and artists. It was originally written and performed by Jon Bon Jovi, not for a Bon Jovi album, but for his solo album “Blaze of Glory” in 1990. This album was inspired by and featured songs from the 1990 film sequel Young Guns II, though “Bang a Drum” wasn’t directly in the film.
Bon Jovi’s version of the song is a rock anthem, showcasing his powerful vocals and the driving energy typical of his music. It has a strong beat and lyrics that evoke a sense of freedom and rebellion, fitting the themes of the Young Guns films.
Years later, in 1998, country music singer Chris LeDoux covered “Bang a Drum” for his album “One Road Man”. LeDoux, a real-life rodeo cowboy turned musician, brought his own unique style to the song. His version has a more laid-back, country rock feel, with a prominent acoustic guitar and a slightly slower tempo. What makes this version particularly special is that Jon Bon Jovi himself provides guest vocals, dueting with LeDoux. This unlikely pairing of rock and country artists created a unique and memorable rendition of the song. The collaboration highlighted the song’s versatility and its ability to resonate across different musical genres.
LeDoux’s version of “Bang a Drum” also features a guitar solo by the renowned guitarist Shawn Lane, adding another layer of musical brilliance to the track. The song was released as a single and even had a music video, further cementing its place in LeDoux’s repertoire and introducing it to a wider audience. While it didn’t achieve major chart success, peaking at number 68 on the US Hot Country Songs chart, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the power of musical collaboration and reinterpretation.
The story of “Bang a Drum” is a fascinating example of how a song can evolve and take on new meanings when interpreted by different artists. From its rock origins with Bon Jovi to its country rock transformation with LeDoux, the song’s core message of living life to the fullest and making your own mark remains strong.