When jon bon jovi came to prominence in the 1980s, he and his band transformed rock music into an art form with soaring guitar riffs and powerful ballads. The band’s iconic Slippery When Wet sold more than 14 million copies, putting it in the same class as Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Since then, the group has stayed true to their core sound while responding to sonic trends from 90s alternative, to dance club sounds, to country. Bon Jovi’s enduring popularity has made them one of the most successful rock bands of all time, earning them a spot in the Hall of Fame and selling more than 130 million albums worldwide.
After high school, Jon Bon Jovi took a job sweeping floors at the Power Station, a renowned New York City recording studio where he rubbed shoulders with Rolling Stone Mick Jagger and other celebrities. During non-peak hours, he would record demo tapes of his songs with studio musicians as back-up. One of his recordings, Runaway, caught the attention of a local radio station and led to the formation of Bon Jovi with drummer David Bryan, bassist Alec John Such, guitarist Tico Torres and lead singer Richie Sambora.
The group’s next hit was Livin’ on a Prayer, an emotive power ballad that offers fans hope that their dreams will come true. The song was a staple at weddings, house parties and ’80s cheese nights. Its success inspired the group to make a film version of the single, which featured stars like Snoop Dogg and Courtney Love.
In 1989, Bon Jovi was one of the first hard rock acts to appear on MTV. This exposure helped them reach a larger audience and opened the door to touring opportunities. The band supported emerging metal bands such as Skid Row, and even provided them with their first records deals.
On September 11, 2001, the world changed for the members of Bon Jovi. The band was on the verge of releasing their eighth album and had already performed at a Concert for New York. They were quick to use their influence to raise funds and honor those who risked their lives for others.
Bon Jovi continued to produce hits throughout the 1990s and 2000s. The band remained popular and toured regularly. During this time, the band also ventured into acting. Bon Jovi starred in movies such as Moonlight and Valentino and The Leading Man, as well as TV shows like Ally McBeal.
In recent years, Bon Jovi has focused on his charitable work with Habitat for Humanity. He has donated money and worked with the organization to build homes for families in his native New Jersey. He has also owned an Arena Football League team, the Philadelphia Soul, and acted in films like Destination Anywhere and Homegrown. Jon and his band continue to tour and release new albums. They have also branched out to other interests, including acting and building a line of baby clothing called Rock Star Baby.