Bon Jovi is one of those rare musical artists who has achieved crossover success with his music. His hit album, “uper Stadium” is the highest selling album in the U.S.A. And now, “Livin’ on a Beach” is the number one pop single. The reason for this is easy to see – Bon Jovi knows how to appeal to both mainstream audiences and more specific target audiences. But how did he do it?
During the early days of their career, many artists would go through what Bon Jovi did. They would add big names to their already growing list of musicians. This worked to some degree because bigger names will typically attract bigger audiences. However, this also diluted the star’s original sound, as songs would be construed as mainstream and watered down. As a result, their fan base was somewhat limited and their fan base was not as loyal as it could have been.
But when they added people like David Hasselhoff and Rod Stewart they were able to increase their fan base and keep the band relevant with their audience. Bon Jovi then added people like Dio Chanel and David Lee Roth. All of these people are considered pop music heavyweights. And as their fan base grew, so too did their ability to draw in crowds and create massive venues like arenas and stadiums.
With each successive album, there were more classic hits and deeper pockets of fans. So how did they continue to be relevant? One way is through their catalog of songs. Classic songs have always had the ability to draw in new audiences. They often have recognizable instruments in them or recognizable vocalists.
So how did the original group maintain relevance over the years? Bon Jovi created timeless classics that their fans love. Many of their songs have their roots in other classic rock songs of past decades. Bon Jovi is also a band that sings songs that really touch people and make them think. Their music inspires emotions, even on the stage.
There are many other reasons why this group is still going strong. Their music is fun to dance to. Their performances are electrifying. Their lyrics inspire powerful emotions in their fans and their concerts always sold out.
One song that has been heard in a hospital and has inspired fans to go on a mission is “Bodhisattva.” The original composition was written by Bon Jovi for his album “arers.” The first verse tells the story of a Bodhisattva who gives up everything to follow his Guru. The second verse centers on the Bodhisattva’s journey. The third describes how he gives up his principles for the moment. This track alone has become the standard by which all future Bon Jovi songs are judged.
A favorite of mine is “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles.” It tells the story of a young girl who has a crush on a boy she doesn’t know. The girl decides to give up her dream to get her crush. But that doesn’t solve the problem. Her grandmother is killed and she must find a way to cope with her tragic loss. It has always resonated with me because it touches on the tragic nature of human life, love, loss, and music.