Recently, the MusiCares Person of the Year Gala was held in downtown Los Angeles, where rock star Jon Bon Jovi was honored for his artistic achievements and philanthropic efforts. The event, which took place just before the Grammys, featured a star-studded tribute lineup including Bruce Springsteen, Shania Twain, Melissa Etheridge, Jelly Roll, Damiano David, and Sammy Hagar. Proceeds from the gala support MusiCares, a leading music charity that provides health and human services to music professionals.
The evening began with an auction that included Bon Jovi-related items, such as a volunteer day and dinner with the star at his JBJ Soul Kitchen restaurant in New Jersey. Another item up for auction was a tasting of Bon Jovi's Hampton Water Rosé wine in East Hampton, accompanied by the musician and his son Jesse. Following the auction, a two-hour tribute concert featuring the band's greatest hits took place, with plenty of praise for the musical legend along the way.
Bruce Springsteen joined Bon Jovi on stage to kick off the night with performances of 'Who Says You Can't Go Home' and 'The Promised Land.' Bon Jovi playfully reminded the crowd that they were at a concert, not a seated event. As the night unfolded, Springsteen and Bon Jovi joined the likes of Paul McCartney and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft at the central table. Comedian Jim Gaffigan served as the host for the event, injecting humor and teasing Bon Jovi about his hairstyles and outfits from the '80s.
The tribute concert showcased the talent of various artists, with Shania Twain covering 'Bed of Roses,' Melissa Etheridge performing 'Blaze of Glory,' and Sammy Hagar rocking out to 'You Give Love a Bad Name.' Other notable performances included Jelly Roll's rendition of 'Bad Medicine,' Lainey Wilson's rendition of 'We Weren't Born to Follow,' and Pat Monahan's interpretation of 'It's My Life.' Jason Isbell, Måneskin's Damiano David, and several other artists also added their unique flair to Bon Jovi's iconic songs.
In addition to the live performances, video messages from Matthew McConaughey, John Mayer, Pink, Ed Sheeran, and New Jersey senator Cory Booker were played throughout the event. The gala also featured performances by the Goo Goo Dolls, The War and Treaty, Mammoth WVH, Marcus King, and Brandy Clark.
During the night, Robert Kraft presented Jon Bon Jovi with the prestigious MusiCares Person of the Year award, reminiscing about their three-decade-long friendship. Bon Jovi took the stage once again, expressing gratitude to his friend and mentor Bruce Springsteen, who had just lost his mother. He also acknowledged Paul McCartney's influence on the music industry.
Reflecting on the gift of music, Bon Jovi shared a heartfelt story about reclaiming his first electric guitar, which he had sold in 1979. Upon receiving the guitar from a neighbor who had bought it, Bon Jovi cradled it and wrote a song on it, cherishing the instrument's sentimental value.
In his speech, Bon Jovi underscored the importance of MusiCares' mission and the challenges faced by musicians. He expressed gratitude to the fellow artists who performed at the gala, acknowledging their contributions to his own artistic journey. The night ended with a group rendition of Bon Jovi's timeless hit, 'Livin' on a Prayer,' bringing the gala to a memorable close.
The MusiCares Person of the Year Gala not only celebrated Jon Bon Jovi's remarkable career and philanthropy but also highlighted the power of music to inspire and unite people. Through this event, MusiCares continues to support musicians and provide essential resources, ensuring that they can pursue their artistic passion while receiving the necessary assistance when needed.
