She Don’t Know Me

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "She Don’t Know Me" by Bon Jovi from their self-titled debut album, and we’ve got some groovy trivia to share. This song, released as the second single in May 1984, holds a unique spot in Bon Jovi’s discography as the only track not written or co-written by a band member. Instead, it was penned by Mark Avsec, a musician known for his work with Donnie Iris & The Cruisers and Wild Cherry. Originally intended for the band LaFlavour (later renamed Fair Warning), the song was scooped up by PolyGram for Bon Jovi’s debut when they needed a strong follow-up to their hit "Runaway." The decision sidelined Fair Warning’s album, which never saw a full release. Fun fact: before Bon Jovi’s version hit the airwaves, The Grass Roots covered it in 1982, and Sonny Geraci, formerly of The Outsiders, recorded it in 1983 under the pseudonym Peter Emmett. The song peaked at #48 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its music video, directed by Martin Kahan, featured Jon Bon Jovi pining for an unattainable woman played by Beth Toussaint, with scenes set around a bar and vintage cars.

Digging deeper, the music video for "She Don’t Know Me" had a dramatic edge that was later toned down. The original cut included a scene where the woman’s alter ego confronts two thugs with a gun, but this was edited out of the final version. Fans on Reddit have called the song underrated, with some lamenting that Jon Bon Jovi reportedly dislikes it and has never performed it live. Posts on X from users like @Jerrybraden92 highlight its significance as a non-Jon-penned track, celebrating its anniversary in 2022 and 2023. The song’s journey from a disco band’s unreleased album to a Bon Jovi staple is a wild tale of record label politics and rock ‘n’ roll timing, making it a perfect spin for our Zoo Crew vibe.

Now, let’s rewind to how Bon Jovi got their start. Frontman Jon Bon Jovi, born John Francis Bongiovi Jr. on March 2, 1962, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, was a teenager with rock star dreams. By age 13, he was playing piano and guitar in his first band, Raze, and at 16, he formed Atlantic City Expressway with David Bryan. As a teen, Jon gigged with John Bongiovi and the Wild Ones at New Jersey clubs like the Fast Lane, opening for local acts. His big break came at 17 when he landed a job at Power Station Studios in Manhattan, co-owned by his cousin Tony Bongiovi. There, he recorded demos, including one produced by Billy Squier, though they didn’t catch record labels’ attention. His first professional recording was singing lead on "R2-D2 We Wish You a Merry Christmas" for the 1980 Star Wars-themed album Christmas in the Stars, produced by Tony. In 1982, Jon’s demo of "Runaway," recorded with studio musicians like Tim Pierce and Roy Bittan, got airplay on WAPP 103.5FM, leading to a deal with Mercury Records, part of PolyGram.

By March 1983, Jon assembled the band that became Bon Jovi, recruiting David Bryan on keyboards, Alec John Such on bass, Tico Torres on drums, and, after a brief stint with Dave Sabo, Richie Sambora on guitar. The band’s name came from PolyGram’s A&R team, tweaking Jon’s last name for marketability. Their self-titled debut, released January 21, 1984, went gold, and with hits like "Runaway," they built a fanbase opening for acts like ZZ Top, Scorpions, and Kiss. Bon Jovi’s blend of glam metal, hard rock, and pop sensibilities set them apart, leading to global fame with their 1986 album Slippery When Wet. Over four decades, they’ve sold over 130 million records and played 2,700 concerts for 34 million fans, earning a 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.

For all you Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with the band, check out their official site at BonJovi.com for news, tour dates, and exclusive merch. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates. Fans can dive into communities like the Bon Jovi Fans Facebook group or visit fan sites such as DryCounty.com for forums, news, and fan content. There’s also a dedicated Bon Jovi subreddit for discussions and fan stories. Keep rocking with the Zoo Crew, and let’s keep the Bon Jovi love alive!