Using the name Bon Jovi for the band is the only reason any of us even know who Tico, Richie, Dave, Alec, and Hugh are. The record company wanted Jon to sign as a solo artist because he already had a hit with "Runaway" which was released by John Bongiovi before a band even existed. He already had name recognize-ability. Also, it's easier to market a solo artist, especially one as good looking as Jon, than it is to market a band. Jon wanted to be part of a band and they reached the compromize of using his last name for the band name. The also got Jon to change the spelling of his name so it would be easier to pronounce. They wanted him to get rid of Alec, but he wouldn't, so they lied about Alec and Tico's ages in intial biographies. Also, Jon is the only one who has a contract with the label. The other guys are under contract to him, unless there's been a change in the legal aspect in the last 10 years or so.

Ever hear of Van Halen, Slaughter, Nelson, Bonham, or Montgomery Gentry? Those are all last-name acts that have had some populartity in the USA.


Becky