Pop Culture | Music | 80s
Bon Jovi To Reunite With All Original Members For The First Time In 25 Years
If you grew up in the 80s, you probably remember a time when Bon Jovi was basically THE hottest rock and roll act in the world.
Founded in 1983 by singer Jon Bon Jovi, guitarist Richie Sambora, bassist Alec John Such, keyboardist David Bryan, and drummer Tico Torres, the band had a breakthrough hit almost right away, when "Runaway" from their self-titled debut album hit the airwaves in 1984.
However, it was 1986's Slippery When Wet that rocketed the band to absolute superstardom, and it was pretty much impossible to turn on either MTV or the radio without hearing massive hit singles like "You Give Love A Bad Name," "Livin' On A Prayer," and of course, "Wanted Dead Or Alive."
The band went on to have a string of huge albums and hits, earning several Grammy nominations, platinum albums, and massive worldwide tours that earned them millions.
Of course, the band wasn't without its drama and issues. Like pretty much every successful rock band, drug and alcohol abuse ran rampant, and over time two of the band's original members became tired of the touring lifestyle. Alec John Such left in 1993, and Richie Sambora followed suit in 2015.
However, it seems like the band's upcoming induction into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame has given some folks a change of heart, as Bon Jovi just announced that the entire original lineup will be reuniting!
Bon Jovi was recently inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame by popular vote, beating out other legendary acts such as Judas Priest, and instantly the fans began to wonder if this meant any of their previous members would be returning.
Well wonder no more! Such and Sambora will both be returning for the induction, and the band is set to play a few songs during the ceremony.
Speaking to Billboard, drummer Torres said: “[S]peaking to Alec on the phone, it was wonderful. We took that journey together at certain times as a group, and I think it’s wonderful we can re-enact that — not only for us, but for the fans. I think when you get together with old friends, there’s always going to be some deep emotions within that.”
Time will tell whether this reunion will just be for the induction or if a tour is in the works, but for now it's just great to see these legendary rockers play together, just like old times.