What About Now

The twelfth studio album and the final record featuring Richie Sambora.

What About Now is the twelfth studio album by American rock band Bon Jovi. Produced by John Shanks, it was released on March 8, 2013 in Australia and March 12, 2013 in the United States. The album was promoted throughout the band's 2013 Because We Can: The Tour. It is the last album to feature lead guitarist Richie Sambora before his departure from the band the following month.

Quick Facts

Artist

Bon Jovi

Released

March 8, 2013

Recorded

January–August 2012

Genre

Pop rock

Length

51:36

Label

Island; Mercury

Producer

John Shanks
Jon Bon Jovi
Richie Sambora

Lore & Background

Musically, the record is characterized by its expansive arrangements. The inclusion of orchestral elements added a cinematic quality that elevated the emotional stakes of every track. This era saw the band exploring new sonic territories without abandoning their signature energy, creating a bridge between their classic rock roots and a more mature, sophisticated sound.

Reader's Guide

Released in late 2009, What About Now debuted at number four on the US Billboard 200, proving the band's enduring commercial viability despite industry changes. Key singles from the project included 'What About Now,' which became an instant radio staple with its uplifting message of perseverance, and 'We Got It Going On.' The production team focused on blending heavy guitar riffs with sweeping string sections, creating a unique sonic landscape that distinguished this era from their previous hard rock output. In terms of evolution, this album marked a turning point where the band embraced vulnerability. It demonstrated their ability to adapt without losing their identity, setting the stage for future projects that would further explore acoustic and orchestral influences while maintaining their core rock energy.

Track listing

No.	Title	Writer(s)	Length
1	Because We Can	Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Billy Falcon	4:00
2	I'm with You	Bon Jovi, John Shanks	3:44
3	What About Now	Bon Jovi, Shanks	3:45
4	Pictures of You	Bon Jovi, Sambora, Shanks	3:58
5	Amen	Bon Jovi, Falcon	4:12
6	That's What the Water Made Me	Bon Jovi, Falcon	4:24
7	What's Left of Me	Bon Jovi, Sambora, Falcon	4:35
8	Army of One	Bon Jovi, Sambora, Desmond Child	4:34
9	Thick as Thieves	Bon Jovi, Sambora, John Shanks	4:57
10	Beautiful World	Bon Jovi, Falcon	3:48
11	Room at the End of the World	Bon Jovi, Shanks	5:03
12	The Fighter	Bon Jovi	4:38
Total length			51:36

Did You Know?

The title track was written as a response to global events and the personal challenges faced by band members during that era.
This album features some of the most extensive use of live orchestration in the band's entire discography.
It marked the first time the band worked extensively with producer Rick Rubin, known for his minimalist approach.