Jon Bon Jovi recently discussed his setlist strategy for Bon Jovi’s 2026 tour. He shared insights from a conversation with Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich on Planet Rock.
Bon Jovi explained that he has been carefully planning the band’s setlists. He rehearses two hours a day, four days a week. He revealed that he looked to Metallica’s approach as inspiration for how to structure multiple nights of performances.
“The one thing that I am in control of, the only thing I’m in control of [is the setlist], ’cause at this point, because I do [rehearsals of] two hours a day, four days a week of sets, of shows,” Bon Jovi said.
The rock legend described his conversation with Ulrich about Metallica’s rotating setlist strategy. Different songs are performed on different nights.
“I was looking to Metallica. And I talked to Lars [Ulrich, Metallica drummer]. I said, ‘So let me get this straight. If you’re only doing ‘Master Of Puppets’ on one night and ‘One’ on one night, is the audience mad that they’re not there [the next night]?’ And he goes, ‘Nope. We have enough songs that it works.’ He goes, ‘And your catalog…’ And I went, ‘I’m digging that concept,'” Bon Jovi explained.
Bon Jovi emphasized that his extensive catalog allows for significant flexibility in tour planning. He is not committing to the exact Metallica model.
“So not that we’re gonna do that, but I have enough songs and enough hits, I could do two separate entire shows and have hits on both sides. So I’m having a lot of fun putting together shows that are multiple-night kind of shows,” he concluded.
Bon Jovi’s inspiration comes directly from Metallica’s proven touring model. Blabbermouth reported that Jon Bon Jovi is taking inspiration from Metallica’s “M72 World Tour” strategy. This strategy features two-night stops with completely different, non-repeating setlists. The legendary metal band has already proven this approach successful, demonstrating that fans are willing to attend multiple shows when each night offers a unique experience.
The strategy is particularly relevant for Bon Jovi’s upcoming “Forever Tour” in 2026. Consequence noted that Bon Jovi is adopting Metallica’s rotating setlist approach. This ensures that each night’s performance is unique and tailored to provide a memorable experience for fans attending multiple shows. This is especially significant given that the band has planned a nine-night residency at Madison Square Garden, where dedicated fans will have the opportunity to attend multiple consecutive performances.
For fans attending multiple shows, this rotating setlist approach means no repeated songs between nights at the same venue. Tour Setlist revealed that while classic hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “You Give Love a Bad Name,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” “It’s My Life,” and “Bad Medicine” are expected to be staples, the rotating setlist strategy will allow Bon Jovi to showcase a broader range of their catalog. This includes deeper cuts and newer material from the “Forever (Legendary Edition)” album.
This hands-on approach to setlist curation reflects Bon Jovi’s commitment to rewarding his most dedicated fans. By drawing inspiration from Metallica’s successful model, the band aims to keep concerts fresh and exciting. The 2026 tour promises to demonstrate the depth and breadth of their legendary catalog. Each night will offer something distinctly different from the last, creating a unique experience for rock fans.
