How Aerosmith’S “Devil’S Got A New Disguise” Was Meant For A Concept Album

March 20, 2025

In the late 1990s, the iconic rock band Aerosmith was navigating through a turbulent period in their career. They had experienced tremendous success in the 1970s and ’80s, but by the time the new millennium approached, they found themselves struggling to capture the magic of their earlier work. It was during this challenging phase that the band began to work on what would become the album “Just Push Play.” Among the songs that emerged was “Devil’s Got a New Disguise,” a track that was initially meant for a concept album that would dive into the themes of temptation, redemption, and the various faces of evil.

The idea of a concept album excited the band; they envisioned a musical journey that would take listeners on an exploration of the darker sides of life while simultaneously celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. Steven Tyler, the charismatic frontman, was bursting with inspiration. He poured his heart into the lyrics, creating vivid images of the devil cloaked in the allure of glamour and fame, all the while hinting at the struggle that comes with such temptations. This song was not just another track; it was supposed to be a centerpiece of a larger narrative, revealing the battles each band member faced in their own lives.

As the band began to craft the album, they dealt with various personal challenges. Joe Perry, the band’s legendary guitarist, was wrestling with his own demons, battling with addiction while striving to remain a crucial part of Aerosmith’s legacy. This struggle was mirrored in the song’s lyrics, illustrating the fight against the “devil” that lurked in the shadows, always trying to pull them back into the chaos. It was a raw and honest reflection of what they had gone through. Yet, despite these hurdles, the band emerged stronger, united by their love for music and each other.

However, as they recorded and refined their songs, the concept album idea slowly drifted away. The pressures of the music industry and the desire to create something commercially viable took precedence. “Devil’s Got a New Disguise” ultimately ended up on a different album, but the essence remained. It became a powerful anthem of resilience, reminding fans that the struggle against life’s temptations is universal. The song resonated deeply, not just with Aerosmith’s hardcore fans, but with anyone who has faced their own battles and emerged with newfound strength.

When the song was released, it became a symbol of hope and determination. Fans related to its message, and the band found new life in their careers. Aerosmith had been through the fire, and they had come out with a powerful story to tell. “Devil’s Got a New Disguise” reminded everyone that life might throw challenges your way, but with passion and perseverance, you can find your way back. It reignited the spark in the band, pushing them to continue creating and inspiring others through their music.

Aerosmith’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the healing nature of music. Although “Devil’s Got a New Disguise” may have been born from a concept album that never fully materialized, it became so much more than that. It was a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a choice to rise, to embrace our true selves, and to shine a light on the path ahead. And for Aerosmith, that light guided them back to the hearts of their fans, proving that the spirit of rock and roll would never fade away.