By the early 1980s, Aerosmith had squandered their status as one of rock's defining bands, undone by substance abuse and internal conflict that prompted key guitarists to leave. Their fragmented solo ventures proved commercially unsuccessful, and a 1984 reunion tour, while warmly received by remaining fans, left the band without a record deal or clear path forward.

The group's fortunes shifted following a collaboration with Run-D.M.C. that introduced them to MTV, but their breakthrough came with the 1987 album Permanent Vacation. The record produced multiple successful singles that appealed to both their original audience and new listeners, establishing the foundation for what became their most prolific and commercially successful period. This album proved instrumental in transforming Aerosmith from a cautionary tale of decline into a rare example of rock reinvention.