Jon Bon Jovileader of the emblematic band Bon Jovi, has reflected on the 40 years of musical career that have established him as a rock star along with his peers. His journey began in modest beginnings as an assistant at New York’s Power Station recording studio, a place that offered him casual but meaningful encounters with big names in music.
Bon Jovi especially remembers how the friendliness of stars like the Rolling Stones impacted his vision, sharing that “The greatest teaching was that the bigger the star, the kinder the person.”. This beginning set the tone for a career that, through dedication and hard work, would evolve from performing menial tasks to global stardom.
Thanks to his dedication, he went from being a studio employee to releasing the hit “Runaway” with his band, which marked his rise in the music world. “He was willing to outdo everyone, I think that’s what it was about.”said Bon Jovi, 62. “He wasn’t the best at anything. He was just the one who worked the hardest.and it was nothing more than the desire to improve every day,” he added.
Aside from remembering their humble beginnings, Bon Jovi was proud of the band’s journey and was excited for the future, especially with the release of the new four-part documentary series Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Storywhich premieres on Hulu (United States) on April 26.
This project offers an intimate view of the band’s trajectory, from their dreams in New Jersey to become one of the greatest and most beloved rock acts of all time. The series not only highlights their meteoric rise and impressive longevity, but also candidly addresses the challenges the band members have faced, including substance abuse issues and the abrupt departure of Richie Sambora.
The capacity of Bon Jovi to face adversity has been tested in recent years due to problems with his vocal cords, a situation that almost led him to retirement. After undergoing surgery to correct loose vocal cords, the artist is in the process of recovery and with a renewed perspective on his life and career.
Jon expressed his willingness to retire from the stage if, after the operation, he considered that his vocal performance did not meet his own and his audience’s expectations of excellence, stating: “If singing isn’t great, if I can’t be the boy I once was… then it’s over.”and added being at peace with that possibility.
In fact, this very fact made him see life differently. “What gave me so much pleasure had been taken away,” Bon Jovi reflected. “Joy is something you have to work on, right? Happiness is what you make of it. It’s no longer about seizing the day. I think it’s about embracing the day. I don’t have to punch him in the face anymore, now I just give him a hug, and that’s a good place to be.”
Despite the obstacles, the future looks bright for Bon Jovi and his band. In June, they will release their sixteenth album titled “Forever,” a work that Bon Jovi describes as a reflection on the reunion with joy and the things that give a reason to get up every morning.
