Podcasts > SmartLess > "Jon Bon Jovi"

"Jon Bon Jovi"

By Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

The SmartLess podcast sits down with legendary rock star Jon Bon Jovi. Bon Jovi reflects on his four decades of chart-topping hits, revealing how iconic anthems like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name" came to be. The interview also covers Bon Jovi's struggles with vocal cord atrophy and his subsequent surgery, as well as his potential ability to tour again.

Beyond music, Bon Jovi discusses his transition into acting and the extensive preparation he undertook before gracing the silver screen. The rockstar shares insights into landing roles in '90s films like "Moonlight and Valentino" and overcoming industry doubts about his commitment to the craft.

"Jon Bon Jovi"

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Apr 22, 2024 episode of the SmartLess

Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.

"Jon Bon Jovi"

1-Page Summary

Decades of Hit Songs

Will Arnett highlights Jon Bon Jovi's fame, with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a hit-filled musical career spanning over 40 years.

1980s Anthems

Bon Jovi wrote the hit "Runaway" at age 20, launching his career. Sean Hayes and Will Arnett note enduring anthems like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name."

Songwriting Process

Bon Jovi reveals he starts songs with a title first to guide the feel and style, citing examples like "Wanted Dead or Alive" and "Bed of Roses."

Vocal Struggles and Surgery

Atrophied Vocal Cord

Over the past decade, one of Bon Jovi's vocal cords atrophied, causing the stronger cord to overcompensate and impacting his voice quality.

Undergoing Implant Surgery

After exhausting other options, Bon Jovi underwent surgery placing a plastic implant to strengthen his cords, hoping to regain his voice.

Assessing Touring Abilities

20 months post-surgery, Bon Jovi is rehabilitating his voice. He remains uncertain if he can tour again, vowing not to perform unless at his best.

Acting Career Transition

Extensive Study Before Roles

Before pursuing acting roles, Bon Jovi dedicated years to privately studying the craft, approaching it with the same dedication as music.

1990s Film Roles

He landed movie roles like "Moonlight and Valentino," sharing the screen with stars like Gwyneth Paltrow. Bon Jovi faced industry skepticism over his commitment.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The term "atrophied vocal cord" indicates that one of Jon Bon Jovi's vocal cords has weakened or shrunk in size, affecting his voice quality. This condition can lead to difficulties in speaking or singing due to the imbalance in vocal cord function. Bon Jovi underwent surgery to address this issue by implanting a plastic device to strengthen the affected vocal cord. The goal of the surgery was to help restore his voice and improve his vocal abilities.
  • Bon Jovi underwent surgery to place a plastic implant in his vocal cords to strengthen them. This procedure was done to address the atrophied vocal cord that was impacting his voice quality. The implant surgery was a measure taken after other options were exhausted to help him regain his voice.
  • Bon Jovi is currently evaluating his ability to go on tour after undergoing vocal cord surgery. He is focusing on rehabilitating his voice to ensure he can perform at his best before committing to any future tours. The decision to tour again depends on his progress in recovering his vocal abilities post-surgery. Bon Jovi is prioritizing his health and vocal recovery before making any decisions about returning to live performances.
  • Before taking on acting roles, Jon Bon Jovi dedicated significant time to privately studying acting techniques and methods. This involved immersing himself in the craft of acting through rigorous training and preparation. Bon Jovi's commitment to learning the nuances of acting was a deliberate and serious endeavor, reflecting his desire to excel in this new artistic pursuit. This preparation was crucial for him to transition from a successful music career to a credible presence in the acting industry.
  • In the 1990s, Jon Bon Jovi took on film roles alongside his music career, appearing in movies like "Moonlight and Valentino" and working with actors such as Gwyneth Paltrow. Bon Jovi faced skepticism from the industry regarding his commitment to acting, despite his success in the music industry.

Counterarguments

  • While Jon Bon Jovi's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a significant achievement, some critics argue that other artists who were equally influential during the same era have yet to be recognized by the Hall of Fame.
  • The idea that Bon Jovi's career was launched by "Runaway" at age 20 might overlook the contributions of other band members and the support of the music industry in his success.
  • The songwriting process of starting with a title may not be unique to Bon Jovi, as other songwriters have used similar methods, and some may argue that other approaches to songwriting could be equally or more effective.
  • The vocal struggles and surgery that Bon Jovi faced are not uncommon among aging singers, and some might argue that modern technology and medical interventions can sometimes create unrealistic expectations for the longevity of a singer's career.
  • Bon Jovi's uncertainty about touring again post-surgery could be seen as a realistic assessment of his abilities, but some might argue that artists can find new ways to connect with audiences that don't require the same vocal prowess as before.
  • The dedication Bon Jovi showed to studying acting before pursuing roles is commendable, but some might argue that industry skepticism is a natural response to musicians crossing over into acting, given the different skill sets required.
  • The criticism Bon Jovi faced over his commitment to acting could be seen as a challenge many crossover artists face, and some might argue that sustained success in a secondary career is the best way to overcome such skepticism.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
"Jon Bon Jovi"

Jon Bon Jovi's Extensive Music Career

Will Arnett introduces the legendary Jon Bon Jovi, highlighting his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and his impressive solo career beyond his band's achievements.

Bon Jovi's Hit Songs Through the Decades

Jon Bon Jovi's career is studded with hits that have become anthems over the decades.

"Runaway," "Livin' on a Prayer," and other massive hits from 1980s

Bon Jovi wrote the hit "Runaway" at the young age of 20. This track marked the beginning of his career; he released it independently in 1983 and subsequently landed a record deal that has spanned over 40 years. Sean Hayes and Will Arnett discuss the lasting impact of Bon Jovi's music from the 1980s, especially noting the pervasive sing-along quality of hits like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name" from the "Slippery When Wet" album.

Continued solo success in 1990s through today

No additional information provided in this section.

Songwriting and Album Creation Process

Writes title first to dictate feel of song

Jon Bon Jovi reveals an interesting tidbit about h ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Jon Bon Jovi's Extensive Music Career

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Will Arnett is a well-known actor and comedian. In this context, he is introducing Jon Bon Jovi and discussing his music career. Arnett's role is to provide commentary a ...

Counterarguments

  • While Jon Bon Jovi was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, it's important to note that the induction was for his work with his band, Bon Jovi, rather than for his solo career.
  • Jon Bon Jovi's solo career, although successful, may not be as universally recognized or as influential as his work with the band Bon Jovi.
  • Some critics might argue that while Bon Jovi's hit songs are popular, the term "anthems" could be subjective and not all listeners might agree on their anthem status.
  • The impact of "Runaway" on Bon Jovi's career is significant, but it could be argued that other factors, such as the band's formation and subsequent hits, played a larger role in their overall success.
  • The lasting impact of Bon Jovi's music from the 1980s is undeniable, but musical impact can be subjective and vary greatly among different audiences and generations.
  • Starting the song ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
"Jon Bon Jovi"

Vocal Cord Issues and Recent Surgery

Jon Bon Jovi has opened up about his long-standing struggle with vocal cord problems and the recent surgery he underwent to address the issue.

Developed problem with one cord atrophying over the past decade

Jon Bon Jovi had been facing challenges with his singing ability due to one of his vocal cords atrophying. This condition caused the stronger vocal cord to push around the weaker one, affecting the quality of his voice. He suggests that this issue has been stealing his joy over the past decade, significantly impacting his life and career.

Underwent special implant surgery to address cord problem

Jon Bon Jovi underwent a major surgery, which was a first for him, that involved placing a plastic implant outside the cords to strengthen them. Before deciding on surgery, he had tried everything from Eastern medicine to dietary changes and singing lessons, but these efforts did not resolve his condition. He explains that the surgical intervention offered him the hope of regaining his voice.

Still recovering voice and assessing if he can tour again

20 months post-surgery, Jon Bon Jovi is in the rehabilitation phase and is still in the process of voice recove ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Vocal Cord Issues and Recent Surgery

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A plastic implant surgery for vocal cords involves placing a synthetic material outside the vocal cords to provide support and improve their function. This procedure is typically used to address issues like vocal cord paralysis or weakness that affect speech and singing abilities. The implant helps to stabilize the vocal cords and can enhance vocal quality and strength. It is a specialized surgical technique performed by ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons with expertise in treating voice disorders.
  • Eastern medicine, also known as traditional Chinese medicine or TCM, encompasses various practices like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary therapy. In the context of vocal cord issues, TCM may involve treatments aimed at restoring balance and harmony in the body to address underlying health imbalances affecting the vocal cords. These treatments focus on the holistic well-being of the individual, aiming to improve overall health to potentially alleviate vocal cord problems. While Western medicine often focuses on specific symptoms, Eastern medicine takes a more holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of the body's systems.
  • During the rehabilitation phase for voice recovery, individuals work with speech therapists and vocal coaches to strengthen their vocal cords, improve their vocal range, and regain control over their voice. This phase involves exercises and techniques aimed at restoring vocal function and quality, helping the individual gradually rebuild their singing or speaking abilities post-surgery. It is a crucial period where patience and consistent effort are required to achieve optimal results in recovering the voice after undergoing procedures like vocal cord surgery. The rehabilitation process may vary in length and intensity depending on the individual's specific condition and response to treatment.
  • To reassure the body for vocal cord recovery means that Jon Bon Jovi needs to mentally and physically convince himself that his vocal cords have healed and that he no lon ...

Counterarguments

...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
"Jon Bon Jovi"

Acting Career and Transition from Music in 1990s

Jon Bon Jovi, the famed musician, made a significant foray into the movie industry in the 1990s. Will Arnett notes his extensive work in acting, a venture that required a significant transition from his successful music career.

Studied acting extensively before pursuing auditions

Jon Bon Jovi took the craft of acting quite seriously. Before he commenced his onscreen journey, he dedicated a couple of years to studying the art of performance privately. He approached acting with the same level of respect and dedication that had brought him success in the music industry.

Had roles in movies like Moonlight and Valentino in 1990s

His efforts culminated in a debut film role in "Moonlight and Valentino," which allowed him to share the screen with renowned stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Whoopi Goldberg, Kathleen Turner, and Elizabeth Perkins. Remembering his time on set, Bon Jovi collected director's chairs from his acting roles, showcasing his investment in this dimension of his career. His experience on set was humbling, and he once even offered to pay for film after requiring multiple takes during a scene — an anecdote that highlights his novice status and reveals his humbleness.

Found acting humbling but faced criticism from industry

Despite Bon Jovi's commitment to learning to act, his journey wasn't without struggle ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Acting Career and Transition from Music in 1990s

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Moonlight and Valentino" was a 1995 drama film that marked Jon Bon Jovi's debut in acting. In the movie, he starred alongside well-known actors like Gwyneth Paltrow and Whoopi Goldberg. This role was significant as it showcased Bon Jovi's transition from music to acting and allowed him to work with established talents in the industry. The experience on this film set the stage for his further exploration of acting in the 1990s.
  • Bon Jovi collected director's chairs from his acting roles as a way to commemorate his experiences on set and showcase his investment in his acting career. The director's chair symbolized his journey into the movie industry and served as a tangible reminder of his dedication to this new dimension of his career.
  • Jon Bon Jovi faced industry skepticism regarding his dedication to acting due to his established success in the music industry. Critics questioned his commitment to acting when he took breaks for music tours, which they perceived as prioritizing his music career over his acting pursuits. This skepticism arose from the perception that music tours offered higher pay and conflicted with his acting endeavors. Despite his efforts to transition to acting, some in the industry doubted his willi ...

Counterarguments

  • While Jon Bon Jovi did study acting, some might argue that a couple of years of private study may not be equivalent to the formal training and experience that many actors undergo before breaking into the industry.
  • Despite having roles in movies, it could be argued that Bon Jovi's acting career did not reach the same level of acclaim or success as his music career, which might suggest that his transition was not as significant in the broader scope of the entertainment industry.
  • Sharing the screen with renowned stars is an achievement, but it does not necessarily reflect on Bon Jovi's own acting abilities or the critical reception of his performances.
  • Collecting director's chairs could be seen as a token of commitment, but some might view it as a superficial gesture rather than a true measure of dedication to the craft of acting.
  • While facing criticism is a common part of any artist's journey, some might argue that the skepticism Bon Jovi faced was justified if his acting performances were not up to industry standards or if his commitment seemed divided between acting a ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free

Create Summaries for anything on the web

Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser

Shortform Extension CTA