Bon Jovi to address Monmouth U. grads

By KELLY-JANE COTTER
STAFF WRITER

Rock star Jon Bon Jovi will be the commencement speaker at ceremonies May 16 at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.

Bon Jovi, who grew up in Sayreville and now lives in Middletown, also will receive an honorary degree from the university.

"I think it's a great idea," said Erin Rose, a sophomore from Bridgewater. "I've seen Jon Bon Jovi at Tradewinds (in Sea Bright), and I know he's done a lot for New Jersey. I think it's a big deal for us."

Rose said she hopes to hear Bon Jovi's speech, even though she's not graduating this year. The commencement ceremony is not open to the public.

As lead singer for the band that bears his name, Jon Bon Jovi has brought his style of arena rock to audiences throughout the world. The band is in the midst of its "One Wild Night" tour, which ends with two sold-out homecoming shows, July 27 and 28, at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford.

The band is scheduled to perform on "Saturday Night Live" May 12 and on May 22 will release its first live album, "One Wild Night." The 15-track album was recorded throughout the tour, including some international dates.

Bon Jovi was nominated for two Grammy awards at this year's ceremony. "Crush" was nominated for best rock album, and the hit single "It's My Life" was nominated for best rock performance by a duo or group.

Like Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi has maintained strong ties to his home state. He is known for charity work, including benefit concerts at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank and at Asbury Park Convention Hall.