Bon Jovi makes his pitch for Gareth Southgate to be at Wembley gig
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Jon Bon Jovi has promised to invite Gareth Southgate to his show when his band plays for the first time at the new Wembley Stadium.
The England manager was in the crowd in 2000 when Bon Jovi performed at the old stadium in the last live gig before it was demolished. The US rockers were also due to be the first musicians to play there after the rebuild — but are only returning for the first time next summer.
Bon Jovi said: “I can start by inviting him to the show — that would be great.” But he added: “As much as he wants to sing Livin’ On A Prayer, and as much as I would want him to come on stage with us, I think that would be like me running out on the pitch and playing goalkeeper for you guys — I don’t think it’s such a good idea for anyone.”
The singer, 56, real name John Francis Bongiovi Jr, said it has taken him years to feel ready to return to Wembley. When building work overran in 2006, the band’s two sell-out gigs were moved to Milton Keynes. George Michael became the first music act to play there a year later.
He said: “It was a huge disappointment and the reason why I didn’t play here for all those years. So now, to come back, it will be nice. Everyone knows the great history of the building, whether it was Live Aid with Queen, or even when I played there with Rod Stewart and Robert Palmer in 1997. Going there, I know the significance of the building and playing there was always a thrill.”
The singer says he has no intention of quitting live performances until fellow rockers do the same.
He said: “Performing is something that I enjoy doing but it’s second to writing and recording a record. But when you get out there and everything is going great, it’s a wonderful feeling.
Bon Jovi’s This House Is Not For Sale tour comes to Wembley on June 21. For tickets go to livenation.co.uk
