Springsteen rocks out with Bon Jovi at this weekend’s Grammys tribute

LOS ANGELES:

Bruce Springsteen and other music stars paid tribute to rocker Jon Bon Jovi on Friday at an annual pre-Grammys fundraiser, highlighting hits such as Flame of glory from the singer’s extensive rock catalog. Bon Jovi formed a self-titled band in 1983 in New Jersey and helped define guitar-heavy rock in the 1980s.

The 61-year-old was named Person of the Year this year by MusiCares, a charitable arm of the Recording Academy that raises funds to help musicians with health care and other needs. Springsteen, also from New Jersey, joined Bon Jovi on stage in downtown Los Angeles Who says you can’t go home? Both played guitar and sang.

In the audience, former Beatle Paul McCartney stood and clapped his hands above his head. Springsteen’s mother, Adele Springsteen, died Wednesday at the age of 98. Bon Jovi said he would understand if Springsteen, whom he called a friend and mentor, canceled his appearance.

“But he wanted to be here tonight for MusiCares, and he wanted to be here tonight for me, and I’m forever grateful,” Bon Jovi said. He also talked about the importance of music in his life. “Every time I strum my guitar, it reminds me that I have a best friend for life. This instrument will never let you down,” he said.

During a three-hour tribute, fellow ’80s rocker Sammy Hagar lived You give love a bad namesang folk-rock musician Melissa Etheridge Flame of glory and singer-songwriter Jason Isbell performed Wanted dead or alive. Other performers included country singer Jelly Roll and husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty, two acts competing for best new artist at Sunday’s Grammys.

Bon Jovi applauded the performances and laughed at host Jim Gaffigan’s jabs about the singer’s big hair and extravagant 1980s clothing. Gaffigan joked that Bon Jovi and his band looked like “a gang of aerobics instructors.” at that time. The night ended with the all-star lineup gathering on stage with Bon Jovi for the rock anthem Livin’ On a Prayer.

MusiCares said it honored Bon Jovi for his musical achievements as well as his philanthropic work. The musician founded the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation to fight hunger, poverty and homelessness. “It’s humiliating,” Bon Jovi said Reuters ahead of Friday’s event. “I’m excited to even refer to this group of people who have received it before.” Past MusiCares honorees include Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, Tony Bennett, Billy Joel and Fleetwood Mac.

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