Bon Jovi

In the early 1980s, aspiring New Jersey musician John Bongiovi assembled a rock band, secured a record deal, and changed his name to Jon Bon Jovi. By 1986, Bon Jovi's brand of melodic hard rock was a runaway hit, with the band's third album, SLIPPERY WHEN WET, achieving massive international success. In addition to the catchy singles, the singer's chiselled good looks only led to more adoration and, eventually, movie and TV roles. By channelling the earnestness of his hero, Bruce Springsteen, and reining in his glammy look, Bon Jovi have outlasted their hair-metal peers, continuing to tour worldwide and release new albums well into the 21st Century.

• rock
• pop