Bon Jovi, the iconic rock band, has always been synonymous with powerful guitar riffs and unforgettable anthems. For decades, Richie Sambora was the face of that sound, his guitar work an integral part of the band’s identity. However, the story of the Bon Jovi Guitar Player took an unexpected turn, leading to the introduction of Phil X, a dynamic guitarist who stepped into some very big shoes. This transition marks a fascinating chapter in Bon Jovi’s history, exploring not just a change in personnel, but also an evolution in the band’s sonic landscape.
Richie Sambora’s contribution to Bon Jovi is undeniable. As the lead guitarist and co-songwriter alongside Jon Bon Jovi, Sambora helped craft the band’s signature sound. His blues-infused style, characterized by soulful bends and melodic solos, became a defining element of Bon Jovi’s classic hits. Sambora’s stage presence and musical partnership with Jon Bon Jovi were crucial to the band’s global success. However, after a period marked by personal challenges, including a stint in rehab in 2007 and a DUI arrest in 2008, Sambora’s time with Bon Jovi began to shift. His temporary departure in 2011, and eventual permanent exit in 2013, opened the door for a new guitarist to step into the limelight.
Bon Jovi guitarist Phil X during a performance.
Enter Phil X, a seasoned guitarist with a reputation for high-energy performances and technical prowess. The Canadian guitarist, whose real name is Phil Xenidis, received an unexpected call long before Sambora’s official departure. As Phil X recounted in the Kenny Aronoff Sessions podcast, Bon Jovi’s producer, John Shanks, approached him about potentially joining the band even before Sambora’s 2011 rehab stint. Initially, Phil X was taken aback, questioning the possibility of replacing such an iconic figure. However, Shanks’ proposition was clear: Bon Jovi needed a contingency plan, and Phil X was their top choice.
Phil X’s journey to becoming the Bon Jovi guitarist was far from a casual audition. Recognizing the magnitude of the task, Phil X approached it with professionalism and dedication. He negotiated a fair compensation to learn Bon Jovi’s extensive catalog, understanding that mastering a 2.5-hour show was a significant undertaking, regardless of whether he actually went on tour. To prepare, he received DVDs of a Bon Jovi concert in Tokyo and immersed himself in learning the band’s music, note for note. This period was intense and secretive, with Phil X practicing tirelessly, even hiding his preparations from close family, until his sister eventually questioned his constant Bon Jovi rehearsals. When Sambora missed 13 shows in 2011, Phil X was ready to step in, proving his commitment and musical aptitude. Following Sambora’s permanent departure in 2013, Phil X officially became the lead guitarist, solidifying his role in the band’s ongoing journey.
The contrast between Richie Sambora and Phil X’s guitar styles is significant and contributes to the evolving sound of Bon Jovi. Sambora is often described as a bluesman at heart, his playing characterized by feel and groove, deeply rooted in the traditions of blues and rock and roll. Phil X, on the other hand, is known for his dynamic and virtuosic “shredding” style, bringing a more high-octane energy to the band. Phil X himself acknowledges these differences, stating that he cannot simply replicate Sambora’s style, nor would he want to. Instead, he aims for a middle ground, respecting the band’s legacy while injecting his own personality into the music. This adaptation is crucial, as “full Phil X” might be too much of a departure, while a mere imitation of Sambora would lack authenticity. The result is a Bon Jovi sound that honors its past while embracing a new, invigorated guitar presence.
Looking ahead, the future of the Bon Jovi guitar sound with Phil X at the helm appears promising. According to Phil X, the band is currently working on a new album in Nashville, and there’s a renewed focus on the role of guitars in their music. Phil X expressed his desire to bring the guitars “to the right space” in the mix, suggesting a return to a more guitar-forward sound reminiscent of Bon Jovi’s earlier, harder-rocking albums. This emphasis on guitar work could signal an exciting new chapter for Bon Jovi, blending their classic songwriting with Phil X’s energetic and contemporary guitar style. As Bon Jovi continues to evolve, the role of the guitar player remains central to their identity, and Phil X is poised to make his own indelible mark on the band’s enduring legacy.
