Aerosmith, the band that once defined rock and roll rebellion, has a discography as vast as it is varied. Their journey, marked by both soaring triumphs and tumultuous struggles, is mirrored in their music.
While their catalog is a treasure trove of anthems that have defined generations, it’s also home to a few tracks that, well, didn’t quite hit the mark. This list isn’t about dredging up forgotten B-sides or deep cuts; instead, it focuses on the surprising missteps of a band that typically soared.
So, prepare to question your longstanding Aerosmith loyalties as we dive into the depths of their discography to uncover the seven worst songs they ever made.
7. “Outta Your Head” (Just Push Play, 2001)
“Outta Your Head” is a painful reminder of Aerosmith’s failed attempt to chasing trends. This track, from their 2001 album Just Push Play, is a jarring blend of forced modernity and lackluster songwriting.
Overproduced and laden with tired studio tricks, the song is a far cry from the raw energy that made the band legendary. Steven Tyler’s ill-advised foray into rap is particularly cringe-worthy, highlighting the song’s overall misstep.
6. “Line Up” (Get A Grip, 1993)
“Line Up” is a forgettable pop-rock track from Aerosmith’s Get A Grip album. Despite Tyler’s energetic performance, the song lacks substance and fails to capitalize on the band’s rock and roll prowess.
The shallow lyrics and overall generic sound make it a disappointing addition to their discography. Lenny Kravitz’s involvement as a co-writer and featured artist does little to elevate the track, leaving listeners wondering about the origin of its lackluster content.
5. “Oh Yeah” (Music From Another Dimension!, 2012)
“Oh Yeah” from Music From Another Dimension! is a prime example of a filler track. Penned solely by Joe Perry, this generic R&B tune feels like a last-minute addition to the album. Its blandness stands in stark contrast to Aerosmith’s classic rock roots.
Listening to this song in the same breath as their iconic Toys In The Attic is a jarring experience, highlighting the stark difference in quality and musical direction.
4. “Freedom Fighter” (Music From Another Dimension!, 2012)
“Freedom Fighter” is another major misstep by the Boston-based band. With Joe Perry taking lead vocals and Steven Tyler relegated to the sidelines, the track should have been a blistering guitar anthem.
Unfortunately, it falls flat. The song lacks the energy and intensity that Aerosmith is known for. The repetitive “whoah-oh-oh-oh” chorus is particularly underwhelming, further diminishing the track’s impact.
3. “We All Fall Down” (Music From Another Dimension!, 2012)
2012 is clearly not Aerosmith’s year. “We All Fall Down” is a representative case of a Diane Warren ballad gone wrong. Known for crafting emotionally charged hits, Warren’s contribution to Music From Another Dimension! falls flat.
The song is overly sentimental and lacks the raw authenticity that defines Aerosmith’s best ballads. Clichéd lyrics and a generic melody make it a forgettable addition to their discography.
2. “Taste of India” (Taste of India , 1997)
“Taste of India” is a misguided effort by Aerosmith to capture the essence of Indian culture. The song, from their Nine Lives album, is a cringe-worthy mishmash of stereotypical musical elements and awkward lyrics.
Overloaded with dulcimers and strings, the track feels more like a caricature than a genuine exploration of Indian music. The lyrics, including the offensive “She a friend of mine/She a concubine” line, are both tasteless and disrespectful.
1. “Light Inside” (Just Push Play, 2001)
In “Light Inside”, the iconic band tries to sound early-2000s modern, but they spectacularly fail. Overproduced and drowning in studio effects, this track from Just Push Play lacks the raw energy and authenticity that define the band’s best work.
The heavy-handed production completely overshadows the song’s core, leaving a hollow and lifeless impression. It’s a far cry from the organic sound that has made Aerosmith a rock and roll legend.