Jon Bon Jovi recently shared his feelings of heartbreak and regret regarding Richie Sambora's decision to leave the band. The singer, 63, opened up about the departure during a recent podcast interview, reflecting on the challenges and emotions that followed Sambora's exit in 2013.
Sambora, the band's long-time guitarist, left Bon Jovi during their 2013 World Tour. His stated reason at the time was to dedicate more attention to his family, particularly his daughter, Ava. This move significantly impacted the band's dynamics and touring schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Jon Bon Jovi expressed heartbreak over Richie Sambora's 2013 departure.
- Sambora cited family reasons, specifically his daughter, for leaving.
- Bon Jovi noted the years it took for Sambora to reconnect with band members.
- Sambora publicly apologized for how he left the band in a 2024 docuseries.
- Both artists have left the door open for future collaboration.
The Unforeseen Exit in 2013
Richie Sambora's departure from Bon Jovi in 2013 was an unexpected event for fans and band members. The band was in the middle of a major global tour when Sambora decided to step away. This decision forced the group to adapt quickly, bringing in session guitarist Phil X to fill the role.
Jon Bon Jovi reflected on this period during an appearance on the Dumb Blonde podcast. He spoke with host Bunnie Xo about his extensive career and the moments that shaped it, including this significant change within the band.
"My heartbreak with him is the way he walked out on us, compounded by the fact that it took him years to come back in the room just to have a meal with Tico [Torres] and David [Bryan] and I and say, ‘I’m sorry,’" Bon Jovi stated. "It’s unfortunate. It’s heartbreaking... but if what he wanted was to be just Richie Sambora, not a member of Bon Jovi, do it right?"
Quick Fact
Richie Sambora was a core member of Bon Jovi for approximately 30 years, contributing significantly to their songwriting and guitar sound.
Years of Silence and Reconciliation
According to Jon Bon Jovi, the immediate aftermath of Sambora's departure involved a period of disconnect. It took several years for Sambora to reconnect with his former bandmates. This delay in reconciliation appeared to be a source of continued pain for Bon Jovi.
The singer emphasized that he always encouraged his band members to pursue individual projects. His philosophy was that external experiences could only benefit the group. He believed that diverse influences would enrich their collective work.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Reunion
A notable reunion occurred in 2018 when Sambora joined Bon Jovi for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This event marked a rare occasion where the original lineup performed together after the 2013 split. It offered fans a glimpse of their classic dynamic.
Despite the reunion, Bon Jovi maintains a nuanced perspective on Sambora's exit. He stated, "So for whatever reason, he walked out, and then that was that. But I can’t defend or accuse in any ... and it’s just not worth it anymore. After so many years, I just ... if you can’t figure [it out] or get it together, then it’s not on us, right? I love the man, heartbroken that he walked out on us."
Background on Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi formed in 1983 and became one of the most successful rock bands of all time. Their hits include "Livin' on a Prayer," "Wanted Dead or Alive," and "It's My Life." The band has sold over 130 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists.
Bon Jovi's Admiration for Sambora
Despite the personal challenges caused by Sambora's exit, Jon Bon Jovi expressed significant admiration for his former bandmate's talent. He described Sambora as an exceptional musician and a valuable collaborator. This sentiment underscores the complex nature of their relationship.
"The great thing that I have said about him throughout our lives was you would be lucky to call him your friend, and I mean that - talented beyond, beyond as a guitar player, as a singer, as a collaborator, wonderful, right-hand man, awesome," Bon Jovi stated. "Couldn’t ask for more."
- Richie Sambora's musical contributions: Sambora co-wrote many of Bon Jovi's biggest hits and was known for his distinctive guitar solos.
- Impact on band sound: His departure led to a shift in the band's live performances and studio recordings.
- Public perception: Fans often express a desire for his return, highlighting his enduring legacy with the group.
Sambora's Perspective and Apology
Richie Sambora, now 66, has also spoken openly about his decision to leave Bon Jovi. He has consistently maintained that the door remains open for a potential return. This stance has been consistent since 2014, following his replacement by Phil X as a permanent member.
In a 2024 interview with Howie Mandel, Sambora reiterated his willingness to rejoin the band. More recently, he provided an explicit explanation for his departure in the Hulu docuseries, Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story, which premiered in April 2024.
"I don’t regret leaving the situation, but I regret how I did it, so I want to apologize fully right now to the fans, especially, and also to the guys because my feet and my spirit were just not letting me walk out the door," Sambora said in the docuseries.
Docuseries Insights
The four-part Hulu docuseries offers an in-depth look at Bon Jovi's 40-year history, including personal accounts from all current and former members, providing new context to key events.
The Future of Bon Jovi and Sambora
Both Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora have expressed complex emotions regarding their past and potential future together. While Bon Jovi acknowledges the pain of the past, he also recognizes Sambora's immense talent and contribution. Sambora, in turn, has offered an apology for the manner of his exit.
The ongoing dialogue between the two artists, even if through media interviews, suggests a continued connection. The possibility of future collaborations or even a full return remains a topic of speculation among fans and industry observers. The band continues to tour and record new music, with Phil X as their lead guitarist.
The story of Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora highlights the challenges of long-term partnerships in the music industry. It showcases how personal choices and professional commitments can intersect, creating lasting impacts on individuals and groups.
