During a recent appearance on the Kenny Aronoff Sessions podcast, Bon Jovi’s guitarist, Phil X, likened the band’s upcoming album to the Eagles’ ‘Hotel California,’ revealing its collaborative spirit and exciting vibe.
The musician reflected on the recording process of this project, saying:
“There were a couple of instances where we were all as a group collaborating. And I got flashbacks to watching an Eagles documentary, and they were in the studio creating ‘Hotel California.’ I got that vibe. And I got goosebumps.”
Phil X also explained how he prepared for the Bon Jovi show to take Richie Sambora’s place and added:
“So, I got to remember to memorize all the guitar stuff. But the lyrics will be on a teleprompter that’s helping me out. But the funny thing about that is learning anything off ‘Slippery When Wet’ or ‘New Jersey’ was a piece of cake because I grew up with those songs. But ‘Lost Highway,’ what’s that? ‘These Days,’ what’s that? So many records came out after my fanship and my your fanship never dies because you keep listening to the old stuff. But here I am a huge fan and I want to do it right. I want to respect the band. I want to respect Richie Sambora, and I want to respect the fans.”
The guitarist said he was aware of the fact that he was not Sambora. Phil X also insisted that he couldn’t play like himself either. He continued:
“I can’t be Richie know it’s not in my DNA. So, this is Phil X, and this is Richie, and this guy in the middle showed up every night. I can’t go full Phil X because that’s not going to work. I can’t be Richie Sambora because he’s a completely different human being.”
A New Direction For Bon Jovi’s Music
As a decade-long member of Bon Jovi, X showed enthusiasm for his role and collaboration with Jon Bon Jovi on the new album, particularly excited about the sound mix. He further noted:
“Jon’s really excited about the record. I think the whole band is super excited about this record. I don’t think the guitars are loud enough on the last couple of Bon Jovi records. And I think if the guitars are in the right space [on this one], then I’m going to be really – I mean, I’m going to be proud of it regardless, but for other listeners, I want them to feel the guitars. Because it’s Bon Jovi, right? It’s a rock record.”
Phil X Teases New Recording Plans
This enthusiasm follows a quiet period for the band, hinted at in October 2023 when X revealed plans to record in Nashville on the NTTFG Podcast, confirming Jon’s songwriting and pre-production work in Jersey. The guitarist said:
“We’re literally going to Nashville for a month to record. What? Did I say that? Maybe. Jon wrote a bunch of songs, and we did some pre-production in Jersey.”
The details surrounding the new album, including its title and release date, remain under wraps. However, the anticipation is building among fans and the band alike. Bon Jovi’s most recent album, ‘2020’, was released in October 2020.
As Bon Jovi commemorates the 40th anniversary of their self-titled debut, they continue to look forward. The band is set to release a limited-edition ruby color vinyl LP and a limited edition cassette of ‘Bon Jovi Deluxe Edition’ in 2024. This release will include the remastered original album along with nine bonus tracks.
Watch his full interview below.
