The Count Basie Center for the Arts launched its Walk of Fame Sept. 25 with an inaugural ceremony honoring two legendary artists with deep ties to the historic venue: rock legend Jon Bon Jovi and jazz great William “Count” Basie.
“I really do appreciate you inducting me along with the great Count Basie, who was the original Monmouth County rock star,” said Bon Jovi. “There are so many names who are just as deserving today. I look forward to the future generations who will continue the legacy of New Jersey and of Red Bank.”
The Walk of Fame celebrates artists who have performed at the Basie Center, made an enduring impact on culture, and whose contributions reflect the lasting power of the arts.
Jon Bon Jovi, born in Perth Amboy, rose to international fame as frontman of Bon Jovi, a band that has sold more than 130 million albums worldwide. Beyond chart-topping singles such as “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” Bon Jovi has consistently given back to the community.
From his legendary holiday concerts at the Basie Center in the 1990s, to the HOPE Concerts that raised millions for local causes, to the launch of the JBJ Soul Kitchen with his wife Dorothea, his relationship with the Basie Center has spanned decades of performances, philanthropy, and partnership.
“Jon Bon Jovi has had a long and meaningful relationship with the Basie Center, standing with us through performances, partnerships, and moments that brought this community together,” said Adam Philipson, president and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts. “It’s fitting that we honor him alongside William ‘Count’ Basie, who is not only our namesake, but also a giant of American music whose artistry shaped generations.”
Born in Red Bank in 1904, Basie became one of the most influential figures in jazz, leading an orchestra whose music defined an era. A trailblazer who created the swing sound that made the world want to dance, Basie cemented his place as one of America’s greatest bandleaders during the Big Band era.
Basie’s orchestra had several hit recordings during the late 1930s and early ’40s, among them “Jumpin’ at the Woodside,” “Every Tub,” “Lester Leaps In,” “Super Chief,” “Taxi War Dance,” “Miss Thing,” “Shorty George,” and “One O’Clock Jump,” the band’s biggest hit and theme song. Basie died in Hollywood, Fla., in 1984.
“The Walk of Fame is a permanent way to honor the artists who have left their mark on the Basie Center and the world, while creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come,” said Jeremy Grunin, chair of the Basie Center Board of Trustees.
In addition to Philipson, Grunin and Bon Jovi, the ceremony featured remarks from Red Bank Mayor Billy Portman, state Sen. Vin Gopal, Monmouth County Commissioner Director Tom Arnone, and musician T.S. Monk, son of jazz icon Thelonious Monk.
The Walk of Fame debuts as part of the Basie Center’s 16-month long centennial celebration that commemorates the venue’s impact on arts, culture and community over the last 100 years.
