Jon Bon Jovi and his band are a powerhouse of rock, selling more than 130 million albums worldwide. While they got their start in the glam and pop metal scene of the early ’80s, they have survived the shifts in style and fashion that have dominated the music industry over the decades to maintain their status as one of the most successful arena-filling bands in history. Their success is due to their ability to write songs that resonate with fans on a personal level. Their lyrics explore themes such as love, family, dreams, perseverance and the human experience, making them a favorite of listeners around the world.
After their debut album, Slippery When Wet, topped the charts in 1986, Bon Jovi quickly gained international acclaim. With their 1988 sequel, New Jersey, and the hit singles “You Give Love a Bad Name,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” the group was able to transcend their big-haired ’80s peers to become one of the biggest American rock acts of all time.
Following the attacks of September 11, Bon Jovi stepped up and gave back to their home community, shooting public service announcements for the Red Cross and participating in two telethons for the families affected by the terrorist attack. The band also filmed performances for the America: A Tribute to Heroes live telethon, which was broadcast across the country and broke ratings records for the VH-1 network. In addition, the band performed at two sold out homecoming concerts in their hometown of Sayreville, NJ.
As a result, Bon Jovi became one of the most popular live rock acts in the world. In the ’90s, Bon Jovi diversified their career by launching a burgeoning acting career and appearing in a handful of movies, including Moonlight, Valentino, and U-571. The band was also featured on television, notably as a regular guest star on Ally McBeal until the show’s cancellation in 2002.
After over three decades of releasing studio albums and hitting the road on tours, Bon Jovi is still going strong with their latest offering, 2020. The album is a return to the band’s roots, with songs like “American Reckoning” and “Do What You Can” reflecting their directness and politically charged approach. The album has already spawned the singles “Unbroken” and “Limitless,” which are sure to please their long-time fans.