Former Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora recently apologized to a fan after a thoughtful exchange on X (formerly Twitter) prompted him to reflect on how he handled online negativity.
Richie Sambora apologizes
The interaction began as a fan named Jerry shared a long, encouraging message urging Sambora not to be overly critical of himself or allow negative voices to carry weight.
In the post, Jerry emphasized self-reflection, mental health, and the importance of kindness—both toward others and oneself—writing that while self-reflection can be constructive, it can also become destructive if taken too far. He encouraged Sambora to focus on his positive contributions, acknowledge flaws without self-destruction, and remember that personal growth is ongoing.
Sambora responded directly, thanking Jerry and acknowledging that he had reacted poorly in a previous exchange. “Addressing the negativity, I reacted wrongly, and never should have said the throat comment,” Sambora wrote. “I sincerely apologize and it’s very uncharacteristic of who I am. Deeply sorry.”
The guitarist went on to clarify remarks he has previously made about still being underestimated as a vocalist and producer, explaining that he continues to encounter industry executives who are surprised to learn he sings on his own material.
Sambora stressed that he was not complaining, but instead found the situation “surprising and funny” given his long track record in music.
Sambora also struck a warmer tone, saying that interacting with fans lifted his spirits. “I had fun chatting with my fans. It cheered me up,” he wrote. He praised Jerry in particular, calling him “the social media voice of the band” and thanking him for consistently showing kindness. Sambora closed by encouraging Jerry to “pass it on” and spread that same positivity to others.
The exchange has been widely praised by fans, who viewed Sambora’s response as a rare moment of accountability and vulnerability from a veteran rock musician.
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