Jon Bon Jovi has been entertaining audiences worldwide for decades. His unparalleled vocals and songwriting prowess have created a devoted fan base that spans multiple generations. From his humble beginnings in New Jersey to selling out stadiums around the world, the rock icon has proved that hard work and dedication pays off.
The band’s third album, Slippery When Wet, pushed them to superstar status with hit songs like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.” The album also sold more than 14 million copies, earning the band the highest sales in the history of rock music. Bon Jovi is a global icon who has inspired countless musicians and has shaped the musical landscape of multiple generations.
During the band’s rise to fame, they rubbed shoulders with icons of their time, including artists like Van Halen and Journey, as well as blue-collar New Jersey heroes Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Their influences are reflected in their music, as the group blends hard and pop metal with arena rock.
When the band started out, they were often overlooked by record labels. But they persevered and forged ahead, eventually garnering the attention of Sony Music and other major record companies. The band released fourteen albums in total, which showcased their evolving sound and style. Throughout their career, the band has received numerous awards and accolades.
While most of their hits are stomping glammy hair metal pop rockers, Bon Jovi did have some totally emotional power ballads as well. Their most heart-wrenching ballad is ‘Bed of Roses’, which appeared on their 1992 album Keep the Faith. This delicious melding of pounding piano, twanging riffs and Jon’s soaring voice is a perfect example of the band’s ability to elicit an emotion from their fans.
This anthem about the trials of a high school romance is one of Bon Jovi’s best. Whether it was about his high school sweetheart Dorothea Hurley or his wife now, this is a powerful track that never gets old. Bon Jovi have played this song 500 odd times in concerts and it appears on both their 1994 Cross Road best-of and 2010’s Greatest Hits.
While most of Bon Jovi’s hits are upbeat, this wistful ballad is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and love. It is the perfect song for a romantic movie night or a family dinner and is a favourite of many Bon Jovi fans. It was also used in the soundtrack for the film Young Guns and became a live favourite for the band.