Rock icon Jon Bon Jovi is preparing for a major return to the stage in 2026 with the Bon Jovi Forever Tour. This announcement comes four years after a vocal cord surgery left the band's future uncertain. The frontman expressed feelings of excitement, humility, and gratitude for his recovery and the unwavering support of his band and crew.
Key Takeaways
- Bon Jovi's 'Forever Tour' begins in August 2026.
- Tour includes stops in Edinburgh, Dublin, and London.
- Jon Bon Jovi fully recovered from vocal cord surgery.
- New album features a collaboration with Bruce Springsteen.
- Jon Bon Jovi reflects on personal and musical evolution.
A Triumphant Return to Live Music
The upcoming tour marks a significant milestone for Jon Bon Jovi and the band. After facing a serious health challenge with vocal cord surgery, the opportunity to perform live again is a testament to his resilience. He spoke about the immense support he received during his recovery period.
"The band and even the crew, they showed me a whole other level of brotherhood and commitment and love for three plus years when, you know, there's no money coming in. And their families are waiting on that. And they never lost faith, which helped me to keep fighting," he stated.
The European leg of the tour is set to kick off at Murrayfield in Edinburgh on August 28, 2026. Following this, the band will play at Croke Park in Dublin on August 30, before concluding their run at Wembley Stadium in London on September 4.
Tour Dates at a Glance
- August 28, 2026: Murrayfield, Edinburgh
- August 30, 2026: Croke Park, Dublin
- September 4, 2026: Wembley Stadium, London
Personal Milestones and New Collaborations
Beyond his musical comeback, Jon Bon Jovi has several personal reasons to celebrate. His son, Jake, and his wife, actress Millie Bobby Brown, recently welcomed a baby girl through adoption. This new addition has brought immense joy to the family.
"It's crazy, it's a beautiful thing and you feel a responsibility for your kids' kids, and it's beautiful, and the holidays will be that much brighter this year, and we have a second one any day now. If I get the call, my wife is outta here now because the second one's coming next week," he shared, highlighting the expanded family.
On the musical front, the new album features a significant collaboration. For the first time in their long friendship, Jon Bon Jovi and fellow New Jersey legend Bruce Springsteen have officially blended their voices on a track. This collaboration has been a long-awaited moment for fans.
"We've sung together countless times over the years or had many [drinks], you know, but to actually call him up and have him on one of the records in an official capacity was wonderful. It was great. And it's a testament to our friendship. It's a testament to the song. And it's good for the fans too. You know, they wanted to hear it, you know, and a song like that that I'm so proud of as the writer was the right kind of song for me."
A New Jersey Legacy
Jon Bon Jovi, 63, has often spoken about Bruce Springsteen's early success paving the way for other local artists, including himself, to secure record deals. Their friendship spans decades, rooted in their shared New Jersey upbringing and musical journeys.
Evolving as an Artist and Songwriter
Jon Bon Jovi's career spans over four decades, marked by hits like 'Livin' On A Prayer,' 'You Give Love A Bad Name,' and 'It's My Life.' However, his songwriting has also delved into more profound topics, reflecting on significant American events such as the death of George Floyd, the January 6 Capitol riots, 9/11, and the ongoing issue of gun violence.
He views evolving as a songwriter and musician as a core priority. "I'm a grown man. I'm not chasing pop stardom. I've been doing this for 43 years and the opportunity to write for me is also kind of a way for me to think through a situation. It's soothing sometimes, you know, to work through it."
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he embraced a role as a narrator for his album '2020,' chronicling the unfolding events. This approach underscores his commitment to using music as a means of commentary and reflection.
"If I didn't evolve, if I came to you now and say, Hey baby rockin' out we're playing, I would expect you to punch me in the nose. You know, if I didn't evolve," he explained. He believes that growth is essential, acknowledging that fans join and leave the journey at different points, but the music continues.
Potential Future Collaborations and Guest Appearances
While discussing the 'Legends Edition' of the 'Forever' record, Jon Bon Jovi mentioned a desired collaboration with Ed Sheeran. They had previously written 'Living In Paradise' together. Although Sheeran was unable to participate due to his own album release schedule, the door remains open for future projects.
When asked about potential guest appearances from collaborators like Sheeran during the upcoming tour dates, Jon Bon Jovi smiled and said, "Who knows? Who knows who's in town on the day?" This hints at the possibility of surprise guests enhancing the live experience for fans.
Tickets for the 'Forever' tour dates in Dublin, Edinburgh, and London are scheduled to go on sale on Friday, October 31.