The Time Aerosmith’S “Lick And A Promise” Almost Became Their Signature Song

March 20, 2025

In the late 1970s, Aerosmith was climbing the ladder of rock stardom, but the road was anything but smooth. They were a band brimming with talent, passion, and energy, yet they found themselves grappling with personal struggles and the pressures of fame. Among their many songs, “Lick and a Promise” stood out, capturing the essence of rock ‘n’ roll with its catchy melody and gritty lyrics. It was more than just a song; it was a reflection of their life, filled with highs and lows, and it almost became their signature anthem.

One crisp autumn morning, the band gathered in a dimly lit studio, their home base filled with the echoes of past hits. They were exhausted but determined. Each member brought their unique flair—Steven Tyler’s wild energy, Joe Perry’s soulful guitar riffs, and the grounded rhythms of Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer. As they played through “Lick and a Promise,” the atmosphere crackled with excitement. This song felt like a breakthrough. Fans could relate to its themes of love and longing, and it had the power to connect with anyone who had ever faced tough times.

But with success came challenges. During the same period, the band struggled with substance abuse. The pressures of fame and internal conflicts threatened to tear them apart. One night, after a particularly difficult show where the audience seemed to connect more with the classic hits than the new material, tensions boiled over. They argued fiercely, and it seemed like “Lick and a Promise” might be lost in the chaos, overshadowed by the storm of addiction that loomed over them.

Yet, in the midst of turmoil, something remarkable happened. They managed to rally together, realizing that they needed to embrace their struggles rather than be broken by them. Drawing from their hardships, they infused new life into the song, turning it into a statement of resilience. Their determination inspired each of them to dig deeper not only within the music but also within themselves. When they finally recorded the song, there was a palpable energy that resonated even more than before.

“Lick and a Promise” was released as a single, and although it didn’t climb to the top of the charts, it resonated with their fans and became a beloved part of their discography. The message behind the song—about overcoming difficult times and finding hope—struck a chord with listeners. Aerosmith realized that even if it wasn’t their biggest hit, it had the potential to become a defining part of their story. It represented their journey, their resilience, and their passion for music.

In the years that followed, “Lick and a Promise” served as a reminder of the band’s ability to come together in times of adversity. It shaped their identity as artists who could navigate the ups and downs of life while still creating powerful music. As Aerosmith continued to soar to greater heights, they carried the spirit of that song with them, urging them to always fight for their dreams, no matter how tough the journey became. Their story became an inspiration, proving that even in the darkest times, there is always a light waiting to shine through.