What's a Bon Jovi tour without Richie Sambora?

This one, apparently.

According to an announcement on Bon Jovi's website, the guitarist won't be joining them on tour, saying, 'Due to personal issues, Richie Sambora will not be performing on this upcoming leg.  All shows will go on as scheduled.'

The U.S. leg of the tour continues through April 25, followed by two dates in South Africa, then the European tour. The band then has a few more stateside shows on the schedule after that in mid-July before they stop at MetLife stadium here in Jersey to wrap up the tour.

It's unclear on just how long Sambora will be away, or why he won't perform.

Many have speculated that his absence is related to past drug problems and stints in rehab.

I don't have tickets for any shows on the 'Because We Can' tour, but I'd be pretty annoyed if I did. Anyone who has seen Bon Jovi live knows what a big part of the show Richie is...he is an integral part of the band, and it seems odd that the rest of the band would just continue on without him.

It seems as though he plans to be back for the Jersey shows, but if he isn't, I think fans would be justified in asking for a refund.

Whatever Richie Sambora's 'personal issues' may be, hopefully he comes through it all okay. I always liked him.

Would you still go see Bon Jovi's tour without Richie? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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