American singer-songwriter, producer and musician Richard Stephen Sambora was born 66 years ago in New Jersey, USA, is divorced and has a daughter. He is best known as the lead guitarist of rock band ‘Bon Jovi’.
When he was only 6, Richie started playing the accordion and 6 years later, the guitar. He was highly inspired by several big artists like Jimi Hendrix, B B King and Eric Clapton and developed a passion for the Spanish guitar. Richie was particularly interested in blues, rock and roll as well as Spanish classical music.
In the late 70s, Richie was a member of various bands and in the early 80s made his music debut with an opening performance in a Joe Cocker’s concert. Then, in 1983, he joined the famous group ‘Bon Jovi’ as lead guitarist. Immediately after joining, he wrote 2 songs together with lead singer Jon Bon Jovi.
In 2013, Richie left the band as he wanted to dedicate more time to his family, particularly to his daughter. He did, however, play once more with ‘Bon Jovi’ 5 years later.
To date, Sambora released 3 albums, 29 singles and 7 music videos. He also collaborated with other artists including song writing, providing vocals and playing several instruments.
Richie is also known to be a very active philanthropist and made very generous donations to several charities such as the Michael J Fox Parkinson’s Disease Foundation and Dream Street.
He was awarded with an Honorary Doctorate of Letters in 2004 and 5 years later was admitted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame along with Jon Bon Jovi.
Sambora also has an impressive collection of +130 guitars.
*Image: no infringement intended. Source: grunge.com