Bon Jovi is one of the best selling American rock bands in history with over 130 million albums sold worldwide. The band has released 16 studio albums, 5 compilations, and 3 live albums. It has also been responsible for a number of hit singles throughout the years. The band has also performed at over 2,600 concerts around the world.
The band was founded in 1983 by Jon Bongiovi Jr. in Sayreville, New Jersey. The current lineup consists of lead singer and guitarist Jon Bongiovi, keyboardist David Bryan, bassist Hugh McDonald and drummer Tico Torres. Other than bassist Alec John Such’s departure in 1994 and guitarist Richie Sambora’s leaving the band in 2013 (he was replaced by touring member Phil X, but not officially made an official member until 2016) the lineup has remained static since its formation.
While the Bon Jovi strategy has certainly evolved over the years, the basic plan remains the same: write well-crafted rock songs with a deliberate pop sheen, deliver a rock show that exceeds expectations at every turn, and always look good. The result is a massive worldwide following, millions of album sales, and more than 2,600 shows spanning four decades.
After the success of Slippery When Wet, Bon Jovi stayed busy with the record-breaking tour that followed, and barely had time to breathe before they were back in the studio cutting a new album. With the help of songwriter Desmond Child, Jon and the guys came up with enough material to fill a double album, but Polygram’s A & R department trimmed it down to a single release.
At this point, Bon Jovi was already well into their second decade together and had firmly established themselves as the biggest American rock act of the 1980s. The band’s next album would mark a shift in style from the heavier, more traditional rock of previous albums to a lighter, more commercial sound that was perhaps more aimed at capturing the changing tastes of younger women.
This album was also the first to feature drummer Tico Torres, who joined the band shortly after the release of a successful demo called ‘Bounce’. In addition to his drumming skills, Tico is known for his flamboyant stage presence and his love of acrobatics on the tour bus and in the dressing room.
In the years to come Bon Jovi continued to tour and release albums. The group also branched out and released solo projects from each member of the band. During this time the band was also very active in the charity field. In 2001 the band held a concert at Madison Square Garden to benefit those affected by the terrorist attacks on September 11.
With the exception of the addition of bassist Hugh McDonald, the band’s line-up has remained the same for more than 30 years. The band is regarded as one of the most successful and consistent bands of all time. The band is currently in the process of reuniting for a worldwide tour in 2022.