At the 2024 MusiCares Person of the Year event in Los Angeles, Sammy Hagar paid tribute to fellow rocker Jon Bon Jovi. The former Van Halen frontman openly expressed his admiration for Bon Jovi’s remarkable songwriting abilities. Let’s dive into the details!
The Friendship and Mutual Respect
Hagar and Bon Jovi have been buddies forever. Despite their shared musical backgrounds, they’ve never engaged in any Internet arguments. Both artists hail from the same school of rock, belting out powerful vocals and crafting unforgettable choruses that resonate with audiences. Hagar playfully acknowledged, “We sing the same kind of way, we’re screamers, we write big choruses that make people want to sing along. He’s just younger and better looking than me.” 😄
Jon Bon Jovi: A Hardworking Talent
Hagar genuinely appreciates Bon Jovi’s work ethic and his commitment to giving back. The MusiCares gala, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, honored Bon Jovi as the Person of the Year. Hagar took the stage alongside guitarist Orianthi, performing a cover of “You Give Love a Bad Name”—one of Bon Jovi’s iconic hits.
The Songs Hagar Wishes He Wrote
When asked which Bon Jovi songs he’d love to have penned, Hagar didn’t hold back. His response? “All of ’em!” He particularly admires “Wanted Dead or Alive”, describing it as “so cool.” But let’s not forget the timeless appeal of “You Give Love a Bad Name”—a damn good song indeed!
Star-Studded Celebration
The event featured an impressive lineup, including Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Melissa Etheridge, and more. Pre-taped videos from Matthew McConaughey, John Mayer, P!nk, Ed Sheeran, and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker added to the festivities. And of course, Bon Jovi himself reminded everyone that this was no ordinary gathering: “We don’t sit down.”
Sammy Hagar’s heartfelt admiration for Jon Bon Jovi’s songwriting talent underscores the enduring impact of great music. As fans, let’s celebrate the magic these artists create and continue singing along to their unforgettable tunes!