/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/12/11/feature-jon-bon-jovi-2025-12-11-13-05-49.png)
Image Courtesy: Jon Bon Jovi/ Instagram
Jon Bon Jovi is looking back at the humble beginnings of his music career—a start that surprisingly connects to the 'Star Wars' universe. Recently, the 63-year-old rocker posted a photo on Instagram showing the very first contract he ever signed, offering fans a glimpse into his early days in the music industry and the modest amount he was paid.
The document, signed by well-known producer Meco Monardo, stated that Bon Jovi had been hired to contribute to a holiday album called 'Christmas In The Stars.' The project was created for RSO Records and was based on the characters from 'Star Wars' and 'The Empire Strikes Back.' According to the contract, the young musician received just $180 for his work and agreed not to collect royalties from the album. In his Instagram caption, he joked that the contract dated back to 1980 and said it was amusing to rediscover it, noting that it was probably already circulating online.
Jon Bon Jovi's First Album
Released in 1980, 'Christmas in the Stars' featured C-3PO actor Anthony Daniels as the main vocalist and narrator. Despite its unusual concept, the album became notable for including Bon Jovi's first professional recording—his performance on the track 'R2-D2 We Wish You a Merry Christmas'.
Earlier in 2024, Jon Bon Jovi explained how he ended up on the album during an appearance on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live.' He shared that he had been working as an assistant at a recording studio from late 1980 until the early years of his band's formation. He recalled that Meco Monardo had been creating themed tribute albums tied to the 'Star Wars' craze and needed someone who sounded like a young boy to sing a particular part.
When Monardo asked if he could sing, Jon Bon Jovi responded confidently. He was then offered a small payment—around $183—to record the vocal, which became his first official studio job.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/12/11/jon-bon-jovi-2025-12-11-13-05-50.jpg)
Image Courtesy: Jon Bon Jovi/ Instagram
Jon Bon Jovi's Breakthrough
While his first recording came from an unexpected place, his breakthrough arrived with the song 'Runaway.' Bon Jovi personally delivered the demo to a local DJ, convinced the track had the potential to be a hit. The DJ reportedly felt the same, and the song soon became the band's first Top 40 single, marking the real start of their rise to fame.
More than four decades later, Jon Bon Jovi remains one of rock's most successful groups, with over 130 million albums sold and a 16th studio album released in 2024. Despite the modest $180 paycheck that launched his career, the singer's early experience is now a nostalgic reminder of how far he has come.
