John Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen led a star-studded group of artists performing from home in support of the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund. Playing acoustic guitars, the artists (along with Springsteen’s wide Patty Scialfa,) played in support of donations to the fund. Springsteen performed “Land of Hope and Dreams” and “Jersey Girl” while Bon Jovi followed with “Do What we can Do” and “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
In a statement before the show Bon Jovi noted: “I was tasked with curating a show. The obvious and easiest first phone call was to the King of New Jersey, and he said yes. So, once Bruce was on… Bruce signed on quick and then we got Tony Bennett, which blows my mind. … We all got to do our part. And whether it’s just staying at home or social distancing, that is just as important a part to play.”
The singer added that “The Governor is a local. He lives near me here in Jersey and his wife had come to me and said; ‘We have to do something specific for New Jersey, because it’s the second hardest-hit state in the nation. A lot of small businesses and working people are wondering where that next paycheck is coming from, because they’ve either been furloughed or laid off and they’re not sure when they’ll get back to work.”
Springsteen stated: “We’re here tonight dedicated to our healthcare workers and of those who’ve lost loved ones, and those who are suffering and dying with this terrible disease in our beloved state.”
Also included were artists such as Halsey and Tony Bennett, who astonished us all by belting out “Smile.”
Here are Springsteen (with Patty) their two cuts followed by Bon Jovi:
Be sure to check out articles on Neal Schon, Joe Satriani, Richie Faulkner and more. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter!