Bon Jovi, the Grammy Award®-winning band who came together in Sayerville, NJ is currently on This House is Not For Sale Tour which includes songs from their 14th album (of the same name). Vocal leader, Co-Founder and front-man, Jon Bon Jovi is a triple threat as an entertainer, actor and designer of apparel and accessory line, Hart n' Dagger. We took time between rehearsals and his show schedule to talk about the clothing label, his music and why it's essential to support local talent.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Before we talk music, tell us about Hart n' Dagger and how you came up with this line, we feel that it is an extension of your personal style!
JON BON JOVI: If you consider that the style, it is simply what makes me comfortable. It needs to be timeless and classic.
AM: We love the denim in the line, but you have accessories as well which is great for men and women - why did you add this and will there be additional products in this category?
JBJ: I’m not big on accessories, so they better have a meaning. We will continue to look at these items and perhaps look at watches and sunglasses, but those are long-term goals.
AM: Who is the Hart n' Dagger guy and will you bring women's apparel into this line in the future?
JBJ: The HnD man doesn’t buy into fads or fashions. We believe that torn jeans better have been torn on the playing field or because they’ve been worn out – not torn by some fashionista. If you’re looking for timeless and classic jeans for any situation, from work to play, HnD are for you.
AM: As an iconic band with worldwide fame, how do you stay grounded and connected to your roots to continue releasing songs that resonate with fans?
JBJ: Well, you still are who you are. You can never get away from where you grew up and where your roots are. So, that’s who we are… We’re a bunch of guys from Jersey that made it.
We’ve worked our tails off. And we got lucky through the hard work, and we’re proud of it, and that's reflected in our songs and our attitude.
AM: You're in great shape and are currently on tour, what's your favorite workout?
JBJ: I've been a runner for 40 years. When I do it, it gives me an hour to think. Fresh air, blood flow, and clear thoughts.”
AM: This House is Not For Sale Tour is offering bands the opportunity to open in their city - which is an amazing opportunity and such a great way to show local support. This is the third tour (2006’s Have A Nice Day Tour and 2010’s The Circle Tour) where you have invited local and regional artists to share the stage with you for the Live Nation - promoted concerts. Why do you think it's important to have them open an arena show?
JBJ: Every great band starts small and builds their rep one show at a time. That’s the opportunity we were given and now we want to pay it forward. If you’re ready for the arena stage, submit your audition tapes and join us in playing for the best audiences in rock music.”
Stay connected to Bon Jovi, their new talent and the This House is Not For Sale Tour by visiting the band's website.
Read more from the Feb issue as well as see the in mag story of Eternally Timeless, Jon Bon Jovi.
