Never Say Goodbye: Jon Bon Jovi

At my Jurassic age of 24 there is no band that documents my childhood, adolescence and adulthood more than Bon Jovi. I guess you could say I was born into it. The memories of my mother power-vacuuming the carpet, acid-washed holey jeans, hard spritzed bangs while head banging to “Bad Medicine” filled my youth. The album “New Jersey” was always blasted at a few notches beyond ten and fear of Mom losing her hearing was always a concern.
The four guys from Jersey have certainly taken us on a journey over the past three decades, musically documenting the human condition. The unique struggles and exasperations that set us all apart are reconciled through good songwriting. Hearing about heartbreak in song could be the utmost portrayal of compassion. Listening to Jon’s vulnerability wailing about a failed life hurts like nails but is necessary to great songwriting.
There were dozens of 80s hair bands that came as fast as they fell. Adaptation was the biggest problem for hair metal. Adapting to change is the biggest secret in persevering in the music business. Most contemporary music enthusiasts laugh in the face of 80s metal. Phrases I’ve heard often: “Who the hell is Cinderella” or “What fair are Whitesnake playing at this summer.” “I sure am waiting at the edge of my seat to hear what trailer trash Barbie Brett Michaels picks on the 2 Thumbs Up reality show, Rock of Love (hence the sarcasm).
Bon Jovi have adapted to the need of their audience. They have shed the standing hair and make-up and taken on a new genre with their new album “Lost Highway.” Violins, mandolins and banjos were never in the repertoire of Bon Jovi until now. Their sound has never been so full of instrumentation and melody. A tune for everyone lies in this unique piece of hair folk. I could have just invented a new genre, hair folk certainly has a ring to it wouldn’t you say? The highlights of the album would lie in the heart-throbbing acoustic ballad “You Want To Make a Memory,” the country truckin’ “Whole Lot of Leavin,” the broken summer story of “Seat Next to You,” the emotionally forgiving “One Step Closer,” and my roll-down-the-windows favorite. “Any Other Day.”
I don’t think I could write about Bon Jovi and not bring up the mystique of Jon and Ritchie. Like the classic greats they have a connection that keeps creating beautiful relating music. It may be far-fetched to bring up the bond of Mick and Keith, Robert and Jimi, Steve and Joe or Elton and Bernie in relation, but it seems necessary. Their charisma has kept fans excited and attached for years. Most importantly, they work well together. I guess you could call them musically destined.
If you looking for a unique balance of Bon Jovi you will get it on Saturday night. They are introducing the all-American stage which rotates and swivels in excitement. Being titled the Lost Highway Tour, some are worried the classics will not be played. In a recent press conference the band said they will be playing a perfect mix of old and new hits, bringing back a different time as well as introducing the present. A tour for the old timers and new as well, either way it will be a beautiful portrayal of what music is supposed to sound like after three decades of practice.

If You Go

Who: Jon Bon Jovi w/Daughtry
Where: Fargodome
When: Saturday, April 19, 7pm
Why: (701) 298-2690, 241-9100