Jon Bon Jovi to Model Setlists after Metallica’s “No repeat” Tour Format
NEW YORK, NY – Jon Bon Jovi is drawing inspiration from Metallica’s innovative touring strategy as he prepares setlists for Bon Jovi’s 2026 tour, aiming to deliver unique concert experiences for fans attending multiple shows.The move comes as Bon Jovi continues to refine his vocal performance following vocal cord surgery a couple of years ago.
Knowing many fans plan to attend more than one show, particularly at venues like Madison Square Garden, Bon Jovi is adopting a “no repeat” setlist approach similar to Metallica’s current “M72 World Tour,” where the band performs two entirely different sets over two nights in most cities. This strategy ensures fans receive a distinct musical experience each night. Bon Jovi confirmed he consulted with Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich for advice on implementing the concept, seeking reassurance that audiences wouldn’t be disappointed by missing specific songs on certain nights.
“The one thing that I am in control of, the only thing I’m in control of [is the setlist]’cause at this point, because I do [rehearsals of] two hours a day, four days a week of sets, of shows,” Bon Jovi told Planet Rock (as transcribed by Blabbermouth). He recounted asking Ulrich, “So let me get this straight. If you’re only doing ‘Master of Puppets’ on one night adn ‘One’ on one night, is the audience mad that they’re not there [on one of the nights]?’ And he goes, ‘Nope. We have enough songs that it effectively works.'” Ulrich reportedly affirmed Bon Jovi’s potential, stating, ”And your catalog…”
Bon Jovi added, “I’m digging that concept. So not that we’re gonna do that, but I have enough songs and enough hits, I could do two separate entire shows and have hits on both sides. So I’m having a lot of fun putting together shows that are multiple-night kind of shows.” While Bon Jovi has occasionally performed full albums in intimate settings – including This House Is Not for Sale, Lost Highway, and 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic – he confirmed the band has never played landmark albums like Slippery When Wet, New Jersey, or Keep the faith in their entirety during a standard concert.
Tickets for Bon Jovi’s 2026 tour are available through StubHub: https://www.stubhub.com/bon-jovi-tickets/performer/916.
