Originally Posted by JackieBlue

I haven't weighed in much about Jon's vocal issues other than to say that I think it's more than just vocal cord problems. I simply refuse to criticize a man when I think he is honestly doing the best he can right now, all things considered.

But after watching the videos from l last night, I have to agree with what you said - except I do sympathize. Jon's between a rock and a hard place. He's recorded the album, people are expecting a tour, and despite his words to the contrary, I think he does have something to prove - to himself, to Richie, to the critics, and to the world-at-large. He needs to know for himself, if no one else, that he and the band are still alive and kicking.

It breaks my heart to say it, but I honestly think Jon needs to stop. Not quit, not end the band; but just STOP. For however long it takes to 1) get whatever therapy - psychological, physical, speech, occupational, yoga whatever - that he needs, 2) retrain his voice through consistent vocalizing to gradually build his strength back up (if he's not doing that already, which he may be) and 3) decide where he wants to take the band within the parameters of his abilities - after he knows what those parameters are.

Then come back fresh.

If he wants to. Because he loves it. Not to show the world that he's not beholden to anyone and not because he's concerned about what ppl might think of he doesn't.

After last night, I can't imagine that Bon Jovi is going to be able to give quality shows in SA. Jon's broken. But it's not just Jon. The band wasn't up to the level of performance one would expect from Bon Jovi, either.

IMO, Jon needs to admit to the SA fans that the band is unable to provide performances that are up to Bon Jovi standards, give them their money back - now, before any more irreversible plans are made - and promise to come back whenever what's broken gets fixed.

I think the casuals would get over it and the die-hards would respect him for his honesty and integrity in refusing to give them less than their money's worth.

That's just my opinion, but I know I would respect him more for doing it.