Picture this: you’ve belted out the lyrics to a beloved song for years, knowing every word by heart. It’s hard to believe there was a time when those familiar words were different. But the reality is that many hit songs undergo transformations before they reach the top of the charts. Whitesnake’s iconic 1987 number one hit, “Here I Go Again,” is a prime example of this evolution.
Originally released on the 1982 album “Saints & Sinners,” “Here I Go Again” didn’t quite hit the mark for lead singer David Coverdale. He described the album as a contractual obligation, refusing to finish it until certain personal matters were resolved. It wasn’t until 1987, when Whitesnake went through a lineup change and Coverdale remained as the sole member, that the opportunity arose to re-record the song.
The decision to revisit “Here I Go Again” came about as Coverdale negotiated with label head David Geffen. Coverdale saw this as an opportunity to also record another track, “Crying in the Rain,” for Whitesnake’s self-titled album. Making a deal with Geffen, Coverdale agreed to re-record “Here I Go Again” if he could also include “Crying in the Rain.”
Returning to the studio allowed Coverdale to update the lyrics, swapping out the original mention of a “hobo” for a “drifter.” The change was aimed at avoiding any confusion or misinterpretation of the lyrics. The song itself is a powerful ode to starting over after facing heartbreak, with lyrics that resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of a failed relationship.
Upon its release in the summer of 1987, “Here I Go Again” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained at number one for a week. The song’s success was further catapulted by its music video, featuring actress and model Tawny Kitaen, who became synonymous with the essence of Whitesnake’s image during that era.
As Coverdale recalled, the choice of Kitaen for the video was serendipitous, with the original plan involving another model falling through. Kitaen’s captivating presence on screen solidified her as “the Whitesnake woman,” embodying the spirit of the band’s music and aesthetic.
In the realm of ’80s hard rock, Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again” stands out as a timeless anthem of resilience and renewal. The song’s journey from its origins to chart-topping status serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke emotion and inspire listeners.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.