It was nearly a month ago when Richie Sambora took a sudden leave of absence from Bon Jovi, leaving the band without its longtime guitarist. Jon Bon Jovi later revealed Sambora’s departure, due to “personal reasons,” was as much of a surprise to him as it was the media and fans.
The band continued to tour without the troubled guitarist and plan to complete all of the scheduled stops as they proceed to head overseas. Bon Jovi released a brief statement on their website on Tuesday (April 30):
“Due to a personal matter, Richie Sambora will not be performing on the European and South African leg of the tour. All shows will go on as scheduled.”
The “personal matter” mentioned is yet to be affirmed, but, considering Sambora’s past, it can be speculated that involves substance abuse and/or rehab.
Bon Jovi heads to Capetown, South Africa for a show on May 7th and will return home to New Jersey for a pair of shows at MetLife Stadium on July 25th and 27th. They will close out 2013 with four shows in Australia.
– EJ Judge, WCBS-FM
