Jon Bon Jovi Opens Up About Why Building a Close Friendship with Bruce Springsteen Has Meant So Much to Him
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The rock icon is set to begin Bon Jovi’s “Forever” tour on July 7.
Jersey legends for life!
In a recent PEOPLE cover feature, Jon Bon Jovi opened up about his longtime friendship with fellow New Jersey music icon Bruce Springsteen and explained why their bond has become one of the most meaningful relationships of his career.
The 64-year-old rocker jokingly described himself as the “prince of New Jersey” in the state’s musical legacy, following Springsteen, who is 76 and widely regarded as one of the area’s greatest artists.
Like Springsteen, Bon Jovi’s early career was shaped by performances at the legendary The Stone Pony, a venue closely tied to New Jersey’s rock history.
Bon Jovi said that anyone growing up in New Jersey and pursuing music had to recognize the influence of E Street Band, regardless of personal musical preferences. He described the band as a major foundation of New Jersey rock and roll, alongside other legendary artists from the state.
He explained that becoming close friends with Springsteen over the years has been a major highlight of his journey because, to him, the E Street Band represented what seemed impossible becoming real. As a teenager, seeing a successful musician from just a short distance away made the dream of creating music feel achievable.
Bon Jovi, who is preparing to embark on Bon Jovi Forever Tour, also reflected on their friendship in his 2024 documentary series Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story. He revealed that one of the things they enjoy doing together is taking long drives and having deep conversations.
He described Springsteen as someone he admired while growing up, noting that members of the E Street Band were older figures who felt like big brothers to him. Over time, their connection grew beyond music, allowing them to talk openly about life, relationships, and personal struggles.
Bon Jovi said their friendship remains special because Springsteen has been both an inspiration and a close companion — someone who represents where he came from while also sharing a unique understanding of the experiences they have both faced throughout their careers.