The hard rock world suffered a major loss on Sunday, June 5th, when original bassist for Bon Jovi, Alec John Such, was found dead in his East coast apartment. The bassist apparently suffered from a heart attack in his sleep. The hard rock community has no doubt had a major blow.
Alec John Such was actually the glue of the band. He was the member that originally introduced all the others to each other. The one who recommended that they all jam together. As was confirmed by Bon Jovi’s statement online. He played through and through on the first two Bon Jovi albums: Self titled and 7,800 Degrees Fahrenheit. Before the band exploded into massive mainstream success ‘Slippery When Wet’ that continues to this day. During the years between ‘Slippery’ and the final days of the ‘Keep the Faith’ tour, John Such performed as a full time member. Even if he didn’t play every studio track. Not that he’s completely absent from them. But it’s known now that successor Hugh McDonald occasionally played in the studio before John Such’s official departure. However, John Such lays down one of the most legendary bass lines of all time and that will never change. ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ will forever live on and on.
That never detracted from the fact that John Such played all the songs well live. And had great chemistry with Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora. Laying the foundation for their 80’s heyday image. Which ended up paying off in droves. Two number one smash albums in a row: ‘Slippery When Wet’ and ‘New Jersey.’ The latter’s tour ended up lasting for three years. Then, what is in my opinion Bon Jovi’s best album, ‘Keep the Faith’ was dropped and another tour ensued. So it makes sense why he felt the need to step away in 1994. He was after all ten or so years older than the rest of the band. With the exception of drummer Tico Torres.
Some say John Such was fired, some say he quit. I’m inclined to believe the latter because of Jon Bon Jovi has confirmed in statements that he quit. Either way his legacy is solidified. May he rest in peace. The original glue that brought the band together can’t be overlooked. RIP Alec John Such.
