Bon Jovi in Punchestown - June 7th 2008

Founded by Jon Bongiovi of Sayreville, New Jersey, Bon Jovi had their first hit in 1984 with Runaway. In 1986, their album Slippery When Wet topped the charts in both the US and Europe.

Jon Bon Jovi (vocals, additional guitars), Richie Sambora (guitars), David Bryan (piano, keyboards), Tico Torres (drums) and Alec John Such (bassist) made rock music hugely popular. Alec John Such left the band in 1994; he was followed by Hugh McDonald one year later.

In the 90s, the band took a new direction. The sound became edgier, while social issues were addressed more often in the lyrics. But success remained with Bon Jovi.

In 1995, the group played three sold-out nights at London's Wembley Stadium. Irish fans welcomed the band in 2000, 2001 and 2003.

The spring of 2002 saw Bon Jovi releasing the album Bounce, which also refers to the 9/11 attacks on the US.