Bon Jovi chat to Ahlanlive

BON JOVI have promised fans a hot gig when they come to Abu Dhabi next month.

This is the band's first Middle East performance and band members RICHIE SAMBORA and TICO TORRES have admitted to not knowing much about the region.

"I guess it is like what you would see on CNN. That's about all we get here in America about the Middle East," guitarist Richie Sambora told UAE reporters last night.

The patriotic US musicians might be in for a surprise when they arrive at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi for their May 20^th concert. The venue has already played host to gigs by JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE and ELTON JOHN and is fast becoming a desirable tour stop for the world's biggest acts.

The group are already preparing themselves for the lavish treatment they are sure to receive. Sambora, who recently split from girlfriend DENISE RICHARDS, suggested the band should be "fed grapes by Nubians," during the stay.

Any volunteers?

The expected rush for tickets was slowed down last night when the http://www.bonjovinow.com website crashed. Rock fans across the region were left disappointed as they tried and failed to access the site.

And there's been further controversy surrounding the gig after it was revealed Sambora is facing a six month jail term after being charged with drink driving. He will answer the charges in a US court on May 7 - just 13 days before the Abu Dhabi gig.

The boys in the band, however, seem unruffled by the hype and controversy. Having sold out the world's biggest stadiums for more than 20 years they are well versed in tour life - wherever they may be.

"People are people. The nice thing about music is that it really is not that political for us. Music, rock and roll, transcends the whole world and language," said drummer Tico Torres.