New York Post editor William Kenton, a fan since 1986, recently experienced Bon Jovi live for the first time at Madison Square Garden as part of the band's ongoing 'Forever Tour' residency. Describing the concert as "so much better" than listening to recordings, Kenton emphasized the palpable energy and groove of a live performance.
The residency at MSG features five remaining concerts, with dates scheduled through July 26, 2026. The July 7 performance attended by Kenton began promptly at 7:35 p.m. and featured a setlist of 22 songs, kicking off with a rendition of The Beatles' "With a Little Help From My Friends."
Kenton noted the opening song as a "big thank you" from Jon Bon Jovi to his fans, setting a positive and engaging tone for the evening. The performance included a mix of the band's newer material, such as "Beautiful Drug" from the 2020 album and "Legendary" from the recently released "Forever," which Kenton described as "genuine bangers." He specifically praised Tico Torres's drumming, calling him the "beating heart of the group" for his driving rhythms.
The concert seamlessly blended rockers with ballads, including a sentimental performance of "Bed of Roses" and "Lay Your Hands on Me." The show also delved into the band's iconic hits from their heyday. After referencing years like 1999, 1997, 1993, 1989, and 1986, the band launched into "You Give Love a Bad Name."
The encore featured "I'll Be There For You" and "Red, White and Jersey," followed by fan favorites "Wanted Dead or Alive" and "Bad Medicine." Despite acknowledging that Jon Bon Jovi's voice showed signs of strain following vocal cord surgery, Kenton deemed the performance "masterful."
Bon Jovi released their 16th studio album, "Forever," in June 2024, which reached No. 5 on the US Billboard 200 chart. A "Legendary Edition" of the album was released on October 24, 2025, featuring collaborations with artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Jelly Roll, Robbie Williams, James Bay, The War and Treaty, Lainey Wilson, Avril Lavigne, and Carín León.
The current touring lineup for the 'Forever Tour' includes Jon Bon Jovi (lead vocals, guitar), David Bryan (keyboards), Tico Torres (drums), Hugh McDonald (bass), Phil X (lead guitar), Everett Bradley (percussion), and John Shanks (rhythm guitar). Former lead guitarist Richie Sambora has not been with the band since 2013.
In conjunction with the tour, a two-week Bon Jovi pop-up store at 2 Penn Plaza's U Music Shop offers exclusive merchandise, giveaways, and surprise appearances until July 16. The store features tour apparel, keepsake collectibles, and vinyl, with opportunities to win autographed items and concert tickets. Fans lined up outside the shop, indicating strong demand for the exclusive items.
Bon Jovi's residency is part of a broader trend of major rock acts touring in 2026, with other notable artists including Rush, AC/DC, Robert Plant, Bryan Adams with Pat Benatar, and Roger Daltrey also on the road.