What Happened to Richard Stephen Sambora?
Richie Sambora is an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter best known as the longtime lead guitarist and co-principal songwriter for Bon Jovi from 1983 to 2013. After his abrupt departure from the band, he pursued solo projects, collaborated with Orianthi as RSO, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Bon Jovi in 2018, performing with them once more. As of 2026, he continues to release solo music and has stated he is not involved in Bon Jovi's current touring plans.
Quick Answer
Richie Sambora, the iconic lead guitarist of Bon Jovi, left the band abruptly in 2013, citing a desire to spend more time with his daughter and address personal issues. Since then, he has released solo albums, formed the duo RSO with Orianthi, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Bon Jovi in 2018. As of September 2026, Sambora continues to work on new music and has indicated he is not part of Bon Jovi's 'Forever' tour, despite fan hopes for a full reunion.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline15 events
Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey
Richard Stephen Sambora was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey.
Joined Bon Jovi
Sambora joined Bon Jovi as the lead guitarist, backing vocalist, and co-principal songwriter, replacing Dave Sabo.
Bon Jovi releases 'Slippery When Wet'
Bon Jovi's third album, 'Slippery When Wet,' became a massive commercial success, selling over 28 million copies and launching the band into global stardom.
Released first solo album 'Stranger in This Town'
Sambora released his blues-influenced debut solo album, 'Stranger in This Town,' which charted on the Billboard 200 and UK Albums Chart.
Married actress Heather Locklear
Richie Sambora married actress Heather Locklear in Paris. They later had a daughter, Ava Elizabeth.
Released second solo album 'Undiscovered Soul'
His second solo album, 'Undiscovered Soul,' was released, featuring a more introspective sound.
Divorce finalized; entered rehab
His divorce from Heather Locklear was finalized, and he entered rehab following the death of his father and struggles with alcohol dependency.
Released third solo album 'Aftermath of the Lowdown'
Sambora released his third solo album, 'Aftermath of the Lowdown,' which charted on the Top Hard Rock Albums.
Abruptly left Bon Jovi during tour
Sambora unexpectedly left Bon Jovi during the 'Because We Can' tour, citing personal reasons and a desire to spend more time with his daughter.
Announced collaboration with Orianthi
Sambora announced he was working on a new album in collaboration with fellow guitarist and then-girlfriend Orianthi.
RSO released debut album 'Radio Free America'
The duo RSO (Richie Sambora and Orianthi) released their debut album, 'Radio Free America,' after two EPs in 2017.
Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Bon Jovi
Sambora was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Bon Jovi and reunited with the band for a performance at the ceremony.
Appeared in Bon Jovi documentary; released new singles
Sambora appeared in the 'Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story' documentary, apologizing for how he left the band. He also released several new singles.
States he is 'not welcome' on Bon Jovi's 'Forever' tour
Sambora publicly stated via social media that he is 'not welcome' to join Bon Jovi on their 2026 'Forever' tour, despite ongoing fan speculation.
Shares message of support for Glenn Hughes
Sambora took to Instagram to send prayers and wish his friend Glenn Hughes a speedy recovery, sharing a video of them performing together.
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🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Richie Sambora, born July 11, 1959, rose to prominence as the lead guitarist, backing vocalist, and co-principal songwriter for the legendary rock band Bon Jovi, which he joined in 1983. His distinctive guitar riffs and songwriting contributions were integral to the band's global success, particularly on albums like 'Slippery When Wet' (1986) and 'New Jersey' (1988), which produced numerous chart-topping hits.
Sambora's departure from Bon Jovi in April 2013, during the 'Because We Can' tour, came as a shock to fans. The official reason initially cited was 'personal issues.' Over the years, more details emerged, including his desire to prioritize spending time with his daughter, Ava, and his struggles with substance abuse, for which he had entered rehab in 2007 and 2011. In the 2024 documentary 'Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story,' Sambora expressed regret over how he left the band, acknowledging the abruptness of his exit. He also hinted at creative differences and a breakdown in communication with frontman Jon Bon Jovi, suggesting the partnership had lost its balance over their 31-year collaboration.
Following his exit from Bon Jovi, Sambora focused on his solo career, having previously released 'Stranger in This Town' (1991) and 'Undiscovered Soul' (1998). His third solo album, 'Aftermath of the Lowdown,' was released in 2012, shortly before his departure from Bon Jovi. In 2015, he announced a collaboration with Australian guitarist Orianthi, forming the duo RSO. They released two EPs in 2017, 'Rise' and 'Making History,' followed by their debut album, 'Radio Free America,' in May 2018.
A significant turning point for Sambora was his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Bon Jovi in April 2018. He reunited with his former bandmates for a performance at the ceremony, offering a moment of reconciliation and nostalgia for fans. Despite this reunion, a full return to the band has not materialized. As of July 2026, Sambora explicitly stated on social media that he is 'not welcome' on Bon Jovi's 'Forever' tour, suggesting ongoing tensions or a lack of desire from Jon Bon Jovi for his return. He continues to be active in music, releasing new singles in 2024, including 'I Pray,' 'Livin' Alone,' 'Songs That Wrote My Life,' and 'Believe (in Miracles).' Most recently, in September 2026, Sambora shared a public message of support for his friend Glenn Hughes, who is facing health struggles.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Richard Stephen Sambora made different choices?