Bon Jovi Biography (2010-2019)

 

2010s: Resilience and Recognition

The decade began with the ambitious The Circle (2009) and its world tour, one of the highest-grossing of the year. However, Richie Sambora’s unexpected departure in 2013 was a blow to the band. Still, they kept releasing albums and touring successfully, showing maturity and renewed commitment to fans.

Their 2018 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame crowned their career, highlighting their cultural and musical impact. Tours remained a cornerstone, featuring professional shows mixing nostalgia and new material.

Albums and key details:

• The Circle (2009): The Circle was conceived as a return to Bon Jovi’s classic rock sound after the country detour of Lost Highway. Produced by John Shanks, the album reflects themes of unity, resilience, and social awareness amid the global financial crisis. Musically, it features strong guitar work and anthemic choruses, as heard on tracks like “We Weren’t Born to Follow” (a call to action) and “Superman Tonight.”

  Reception: The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and was praised for modernizing the band’s sound while staying true to its roots. It was supported by a highly successful world tour.
  Fun Fact: The video for “We Weren’t Born to Follow” included images of inspirational figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama.

• What About Now (2013): This was the first album recorded without Richie Sambora’s full participation, as he would leave the band during the subsequent tour. Once again produced by John Shanks, the album blends pop-rock with uplifting and politically charged lyrics. Tracks like “Because We Can” and “What About Now” focus on hope, unity, and perseverance.

  Reception: While critics were divided on the more commercial direction, the album was a commercial success, reaching #1 in several countries including the U.S., Australia, and Canada.
  Context: The album reflects Bon Jovi’s attempt to remain optimistic in the face of internal change.

• Burning Bridges (2015): Released mainly to fulfill the band’s contractual obligation with Mercury Records, Burning Bridges is a raw and stripped-down album. Most of the songs were outtakes from previous sessions, re-recorded with new context. Notable tracks include “We Don’t Run” and “Saturday Night Gave Me Sunday Morning.”

  Reception: While critically mixed, the album was appreciated for its honest tone and direct message.
  Fun Fact: The title track is a thinly veiled criticism of the music industry and Bon Jovi’s deteriorating relationship with their longtime label.

• This House Is Not for Sale (2016): This album marked a fresh start for Bon Jovi, as they reaffirmed their identity after Richie Sambora’s departure. The title track addresses themes of integrity, loyalty, and resilience. It was the first album to officially feature guitarist Phil X. Other highlights include “Knockout” and the soulful ballad “Labor of Love.”

  Reception: The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, demonstrating Bon Jovi’s enduring popularity. Critics praised its message of perseverance and cohesion.
  Legacy: It represents a musical and emotional rebirth for the band, with a successful supporting world tour.

Bon Jovi "This House in not for Sale"
Deluxe Edition. Audio CD

Most important tours:

• The Circle Tour (2010): Over 100 shows with massive production and attendance.

• Because We Can Tour (2013-2014): First tour without Sambora, adapted production.

• This House Is Not for Sale Tour (2017-2018): World tour mixing classic and new songs.

Awards and recognition:

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (2018), honoring their legacy.

• Icon Award at iHeartRadio Music Awards (2018).

• Honorary awards at festivals and for lifetime sales.

Access Bon Jovi's full biography at the following link: https://bonjoviforever2025.blogspot.com/search/label/Biography