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Gig preview: Bon Jovi, Because We Can – The Tour @ Etihad Stadium, Manchester

By Ella Murphy

Mid-way through an intensive world tour, following the release of Because We Can earlier in the year, Bon Jovi are due to perform at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on June 8.

Formed in 1983 and exported from New Jersey, Bon Jovi are arguably one of America’s greatest rock bands to date.

Having received global success, the prestigious quartet has stacked up a phenomenal number of hits over three decades.

Perhaps the key to the band’s longevity is the way in which fans can relate to their lyrics, however it’s not all been a Bed of Roses.

The band has had its fair share of ups and downs including a highly-publicised feud, of which the reason is unknown, that has resulted in lead guitarist Richie Sambora and Bon Jovi having not performed together since April this year.

With differences still to be resolved, it remains unclear whether Sambora will be performing in Manchester or whether Phil Xenidis will continue to stand in for him.

Regardless of in-house dramas, fans should expect the 51-year-old to have a commanding stage presence and a resilient voice.

Recently playing in Ratinan Stadion Tampere, Finland the band played a mammoth set list of more than twenty five songs, lasting over two and a half hours and if this is replicated, Manchester will be in for a treat.

With new songs That’s What The Water Made Me and I’m With You being performed alongside well-loved classics, the night is guaranteed to be epic.

Bon Jovi will continue the UK leg of the Because We Can Tour until July.

June 9 – Villa Park, Birmingham

June 12 – Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff

June 13 – Stadium of Light, Sunderland

June 16 – Seaclose Park Newport, Isle of Wight Festival

July 3 – Hampden Park National Stadium, Glasgow

July 5 – Hyde Park London, British Summer Time 2013

Image courtesy of Hitradio Ö3 via YouTube, with thanks

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