How To Fail With Elizabeth Day

Jon Bon Jovi - Fame is a liar and a thief

Oct 29, 2025
Jon Bon Jovi, the iconic frontman of Bon Jovi, dives into his multifaceted life, from his near career-ending vocal surgery to the lessons learned from family and fame. He reflects on the essence of resilience, explaining how the grueling nature of touring led to burnout. Bon Jovi also shares his wisdom on enduring love after 36 years of marriage, and the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Plus, hear about his unique friendship with Bruce Springsteen and his commitment to philanthropy through his charity work.
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ANECDOTE

Bus-Station Birth Of A Hit

  • Jon Bon Jovi wrote "Runaway" around age 20 while waiting at a Greyhound bus station and fetching errands at a studio.
  • He used everyday surroundings and short songwriting sessions to capture a lasting song that launched his career.
ANECDOTE

The Vocal Surgery And Long Recovery

  • Jon describes vocal cord atrophy discovered after years of compensating and grueling touring, leading to implant surgery and long rehab.
  • He endured a three-and-a-half-year recovery relearning speech and singing with speech pathology and persistence.
ADVICE

Relearn Fundamentals After Injury

  • Work consistently with specialists after surgery and follow gradual rehabilitation steps to restore complex skills like singing.
  • Unwind years of compensatory habits by relearning basics with patience and expert guidance.
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