Jon Bon Jovi is known for being a rock legend and philanthropist, but he’s also a talented actor, a successful businessman and more. The frontman of the band that bears his name has been in the music industry for over 30 years, and he’s made sure to evolve with the times while keeping his fans on the edge of their seats with every album release.
Unlike some of their ’80s peers, Bon Jovi always found a way to stay fresh without watering down their sound or losing any of the integrity that first set them apart. The fact that they’re still a top live draw today says a lot about their ability to remain relevant. Jon’s wholesome image and charismatic persona have also helped them keep their hold on a dedicated fan base, and it didn’t hurt that they were named the 2024 MusiCares Person Of The Year.
The band’s biggest hit and the song that put them on the map, “Livin’ On A Prayer,” is probably one of the most famous anthems in history, but few know about its origins. The lyrics were based on real events, including the 1977 dockworkers’ strike that inspired Tommy’s plight. Both Bon Jovi and songwriter Desmond Child worked on the waterfront at the time, so they were very familiar with these types of situations.
Bon Jovi has never been afraid to lay it on thick when it comes to power ballads, and they’ve got a few of them in their arsenal. The best example is this track from their eponymous debut album, which features a powerful vocal from Jon and a soaring guitar solo from Richie Sambora. Even though some might consider the lyrics a little sappy, they’re delivered with such conviction that they never come off as false or contrived.
When you’re a huge fan of a certain band, it’s always fun to see them branch out and try new things. Bon Jovi was no exception, as they stretched their acting muscles in the ’90s by landing roles in movies like Moonlight and Valentino and appearing on television with a regular gig on Ally McBeal. They even branched out into the sports world by co-founding the Arena Football League’s Philadelphia Soul, though they later sold the team to Terry and Kim Pegula.