Jon Bon Jovi, the iconic frontman of the band Bon Jovi, has recently retired a cherished memento from his touring career: a photograph of Frank Sinatra. This decision marks a poignant moment, reflecting on the profound influence of “Old Blue Eyes” on Bon Jovi’s own musical journey. While Bon Jovi continues to grace stages worldwide, the physical presence of Sinatra backstage is no more, yet the spirit of the legendary crooner undeniably lives on.
Bon Jovi, a native of Sayreville, New Jersey, has openly expressed his deep admiration for Sinatra, a fellow Jersey-born artist who achieved global superstardom. In a 2016 interview with Howard Stern, Bon Jovi confessed, “I emulate a lot of what I do after Frank.” He lamented never having had the chance to meet Sinatra, calling it “the one regret.” This admiration extends beyond mere artistic emulation; Bon Jovi lauded Sinatra’s stance on Civil Rights, his instrumental role in John F. Kennedy’s 1960 presidential election campaign, and his entrepreneurial spirit in founding Reprise Records.
The connection between the two artists is further cemented by Bon Jovi’s 2000 hit song “It’s My Life.” The lyric, “Like Frankie said, I did it my way,” serves as a direct homage to Sinatra and his timeless anthem. Bon Jovi explained that this line resonated deeply with him, especially after Sinatra’s passing, signifying a moment of mature understanding and appreciation for the crooner’s enduring impact. The tribute quickly became a widely embraced sentiment, resonating with friends and fans alike.
The photograph Bon Jovi kept backstage was an early-period shot of Sinatra, dating back to 1947, taken by renowned photographer William Gottlieb. Also present in the dressing room were a profile shot of the legendary football coach Vince Lombardi and the inspiring Notre Dame slogan, “Play Like A Champion Today.” These elements, captured in photographer David Bergman’s “Bon Jovi: Work” picture book, reveal a backstage sanctuary steeped in inspiration from both musical and athletic titans.
Beyond his artistic inspirations, Bon Jovi also shared insights into his practical touring essentials. He requires his signature stage sneakers and a unique, custom-made tea. This concoction, he humorously revealed, is not a typical beverage but rather a blend of approximately ten Halls Mentho-Lyptus lozenges dissolved into hot water. He even cautioned fans against trying it, emphasizing its potent, melted-candy composition.
Bon Jovi’s “This House Is Not for Sale 2018 Tour” was underway, featuring performances across North America. The tour included significant dates at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, as well as stops in Denver, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C. Adding to an already momentous year, the band was slated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 14, with Howard Stern set to perform the induction ceremony.
The enduring influence of artists like Frank Sinatra on contemporary musicians like Jon Bon Jovi highlights the timeless appeal of classic American music. Sinatra’s ability to connect with audiences through his distinctive style and powerful voice, coupled with his impactful contributions to culture and civil rights, continues to inspire. The legacy of “Old Blue Eyes” serves as a reminder of the lasting power of artistic integrity and the profound connections that transcend generations in the world of music. As Bon Jovi himself suggested, understanding Sinatra’s legacy is a journey that deepens with age and experience, underscoring the enduring relevance of these musical pioneers. Explore more of these timeless melodies and discover the artists who shaped the American musical landscape.