Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum: Bon Jovi Gives Back

Among the "artifacts" that were delivered to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum by lead singer, Jon Bon Jovi, was the black leather jacket that he wore on the inside cover of the band's final album of the 80s, New Jersey. Also included in the donations was the black leather Stetson hat that became one of the trademarks of lead guitarist Richie Sambora. Richie's legendary custom-made double-neck Taylor guitar, which was and is the lasting image associated with the hit single, "Wanted: Dead or Alive," was also loaned to the museum.

All of the items were presented at a special ceremony on Saturday, which commemorated the band's 17-year run. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum has been pushing lately to stockpile relics of some of the most popular and influential bands of the 80s and 90s and Bon Jovi's donations are a large step toward meeting that goal.

"The museum is delighted that Bon Jovi has agreed to loan us items that have played a significant role in their career,'' said Jim Henke, vice president of Exhibitions and Curatorial Affairs. Bon Jovi burst onto the music scene in 1984 with their self-titled debut album, then went on to dominate that late 80s music scene with Slippery When Wet (1986) and New Jersey (1988). The band's latest release, Crush, has already achieved double platinum status and is continuing to sell.