Why Aerosmith’S “Deuces Are Wild” Almost Didn’T Make It To An Album

March 20, 2025

In the heart of the early ’90s, Aerosmith was facing an uphill battle. After the band’s huge success in the late ’70s and ’80s, they hit a rough patch, grappling with personal struggles and creative differences. It seemed like the magic that once brought their music to life was fading. Yet, in the midst of this troubling time, something extraordinary happened. The band members came together for a jam session that would change the course of their careers. Deep in the rehearsals for their upcoming album, “Deuces Are Wild” began to take shape—but not without its struggles.

At first, the band was unsure about the song. Steven Tyler, the charismatic lead singer, was battling self-doubt. He felt that the lyrics were too simple, just a playful nod to the game of poker, and worried that it wouldn’t resonate with their fans. The band’s guitar wizard, Joe Perry, remained optimistic and pushed Tyler to see the potential in the song’s upbeat, catchy vibe. “Sometimes, less is more, Steven,” he urged, knowing that a more straightforward, fun track could be just what they needed to reignite their spark. The tension between creativity and insecurity was palpable, with Perry and Tyler arguing over whether to keep “Deuces Are Wild” in the mix.

As days turned into weeks, the band wrestled with the decision. The pressure grew heavier, and it felt as if the weight of their past success was suffocating any new ideas. But one fateful evening, while rehearsing the song again, a spark ignited. Tyler and Perry dug into the core of what made Aerosmith special—raw passion and a love for music. They envisioned the song capturing the spirit of adventure and the thrill of life itself, just as they had done in their earlier hits. Suddenly, the lyrics transformed into something more profound, echoing not just poker but embracing the wildness of life and the importance of living in the moment.

With renewed energy, the band decided to include “Deuces Are Wild” in their album. The song quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for its catchy melody and vibrant energy. The release reignited Aerosmith’s career, bringing them back into the spotlight and reminding the world of their incredible talent. The success of “Deuces Are Wild” was about more than just the charts; it symbolized the band’s resilience and their ability to find joy in music, even when they faced dark times.

Reflecting on those tumultuous days, Tyler later said, “If we had let our fears win, we would have never found this gem.” The track became a testament to the idea that sometimes our most challenging moments can lead to the brightest outcomes. It was a reminder that creativity doesn’t always flow smoothly; it often requires perseverance, collaboration, and a dash of belief in oneself. Aerosmith not only found their way back to the top with “Deuces Are Wild,” but they also learned to embrace the wild ride of life and music.

With each performance of the song, the band poured their hearts into it, telling audiences that it’s okay to embrace the chaos of life with open arms. “Deuces Are Wild” became a symbol of hope and resilience, inspiring countless fans to chase after their own dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. And through it all, Aerosmith showed the world that sometimes, when you’re at your lowest, you can rise again and shine even brighter than before.