REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin has defended Richie Sambora’s recent performance. His comments appeared on rock journalist Mitch Lafon’s Facebook post.
“I met Richie for the first time and hung out with him and Matt Sorum after the gig,” Cronin said. “Richie is a down to earth guy, funny as hell, and a great singer and player.”
“That encore of ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’ was a last minute addition to the show, unrehearsed, and all live,” he continued. “The whole experience was awesome, and Richie Sambora is the real deal.”
The discussed performance took place during a significant charitable event where multiple rock legends shared the stage.
Reports from Guitar World confirm the impromptu performance at the Rock For Responders benefit concert on February 27. The event was held at the Battleship Iowa Museum in San Pedro, California. It supported Los Angeles’ first responders and those affected by recent wildfires.
The collaboration between Sambora and Phil X created a unique moment in Bon Jovi’s guitar legacy. Insights from People Magazine reveal that Sambora left Bon Jovi in 2013 to focus on his family. Phil X later became the band’s permanent lead guitarist in 2016.
Sambora has maintained his dedication to charitable causes in recent months. Data from Blabbermouth shows he matches revenue from his single ‘I Pray’ to support LA wildfire victims.
The spontaneous performance of ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’ united two generations of Bon Jovi guitarists. Both musicians demonstrated mutual respect for the band’s legacy and their shared musical heritage.
