Runaway

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Runaway" by Bon Jovi, from their self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, a staple in the band’s live performances, has a fascinating backstory. Written in 1982 by Jon Bon Jovi and George Karak, "Runaway" was recorded before Bon Jovi was even a band, featuring Jon backed by studio musicians known as The All Star Review, including bassist Hugh McDonald, drummer Frankie LaRocka, guitarist Tim Pierce, and keyboardist Roy Bittan from Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. The song’s distinctive keyboard riff, crafted by Mick Seeley, became its signature hook. Initially, Jon struggled to get a record deal, but a local DJ, Chip Hobart, at WAPP 103.5FM "The Apple" in New York, included "Runaway" on a compilation album of homegrown talent, giving it significant airplay in 1983. This exposure led to Bon Jovi’s formation and a deal with Mercury Records, with "Runaway" hitting #39 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984.

Jon Bon Jovi has shared colorful anecdotes about the song’s early days. In a 2020 interview with Virgin Radio UK’s Chris Evans, he recalled, “It’s 1982. I write ‘Runaway,’ but I can’t get a record deal. I can’t even get myself a band because original bands aren’t making any money at this time.” The music video for "Runaway," however, was a source of frustration. In a March 2024 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, Jon described it as “dreck,” noting the band had no control over its Fahrenheit 451-inspired storyline, which featured the director’s niece and nearly “killed the song.” Despite this, "Runaway" remains a fan favorite, often included in setlists, with Jon sometimes opting for a guitar solo in live performances instead of the high notes he hit in the ’80s, as heard on the 2001 live album One Wild Night.

The song’s socially conscious lyrics, inspired by Jon’s observations of struggling young people during Greyhound bus trips from New Jersey to Manhattan, tell the story of a girl escaping neglectful parents only to face loneliness on the streets. Its influence extends beyond rock, with artists like rapper Tru-NC releasing a 2011 hip-hop version about characters Tommy and Gina, and Immortal Technique sampling its synthesizer in his track "Young Lords." On Bon Jovi’s Facebook, a 2021 post commemorated the 37th anniversary of the debut album, asking fans, “Do you remember the first time you heard it?” The song’s enduring appeal is evident in fan discussions on platforms like the r/BonJovi Reddit community, where fans share memories and debate its raw energy.

Bon Jovi, formed in Sayreville, New Jersey, in 1983, began with Jon Bon Jovi’s relentless pursuit of a music career. Born John Francis Bongiovi Jr., Jon started playing in local bands as a teenager. At 16, he formed Atlantic City Expressway with keyboardist David Bryan. In his teens, he fronted John Bongiovi and the Wild Ones, performing at clubs like the Fast Lane and opening for acts like Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. By 1980, he formed the Rest and recorded early demos, including "Runaway," at his cousin Tony Bongiovi’s Power Station Studios in Manhattan, where Jon worked as a janitor. Despite sending demos to record labels with no success, the radio play of "Runaway" changed everything, leading to the formation of Bon Jovi with David Bryan, drummer Tico Torres, bassist Alec John Such, and guitarist Richie Sambora. Their debut album, released in 1984, marked their entry into the rock scene, followed by global success with 1986’s Slippery When Wet.

Fans can stay connected with Bon Jovi through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, new releases, and exclusive content. For deeper fan engagement, the Bon Jovi Club Italia organizes events like the Blaze of Glory Fans Meeting, celebrating Jon’s solo work, and the Bon Jovi Fans Facebook group offers a space for Zoo Freaks to share their passion. The band’s official site also promotes the Backstage with Jon Bon Jovi fan club, offering ticket presales and exclusive merchandise, keeping the spirit of "Runaway" alive for fans worldwide.