AEROSMITH - LOVE IN AN ELEVATOR

Released: August 15, 1989

Charts: US: #5   UK: #13 

"Love in an Elevator" is a song written by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry. Released in August 1989 as the lead single from the “Pump” album, the track became a significant hit. It peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. This is a playful and provocative song about love, elevators, and the combination of the two. While Aerosmith often explores deeper themes in their music, this song is more lighthearted and fun, with lyrics that focus on humor and innuendo.

"Love in an Elevator" was inspired by one of Steven Tyler's pre-sobriety experiences. He recounts a night in a hotel hot tub with several women, which escalated to a party in his room. When they entered the elevator wearing only towels and bathrobes, one woman playfully pushed all the buttons. As the elevator descended to the lobby, she opened her robe to reveal herself, resulting in an unexpected show for the crowded lobby when the doors opened. This amusing incident provided the perfect inspiration for the song's playful lyrics about love and the thrill of elevator encounters.

Steven Tyler co-wrote it with guitarist Joe Perry, drawing from a fusion of ideas generated during a jam session, with Buddy Miles being a notable influence. While Tyler initially worried that the title seemed too juvenile, Perry reminded him of their successful song "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)," encouraging him to embrace the playful title. 

The music video directed by Marty Callner, opens with Aerosmith walking through a posh department store. The scene features an elevator operator, played by former Playboy model Brandi Brandt, who flirtatiously asks lead singer Steven Tyler if he is "going down." Tyler then jumps into the elevator, and the band starts performing the song on stage, interspersed with quick cuts back to the department store scenes.