In a touching display of camaraderie in the music industry, Shania Twain has shared insights into her support for Jon Bon Jovi as he navigated vocal cord issues. In an interview with PEOPLE magazine, Twain reflected on their bond that formed after their respective experiences with vocal procedures.
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Twain, now 60, underwent a vocal fold medialisation procedure in 2018, a pivotal moment that shaped her artistic journey. Bon Jovi, 64, followed suit when he had the same surgery to address loose vocal cords in June 2022. Their shared challenges have created a deep connection, showing how artists lean on one another during difficult times.
Their initial encounter took place on a flight to Europe, where the two artists found themselves seated near one another. “We just bumped into each other in the aisle, and he said, ‘Shania, it’s really cool to meet you. I’ve heard that you have the reputation of being the hardest-working artist in the industry. I have the same reputation. Nice to meet you,’” Twain recalled fondly. From that moment, it became apparent that they had much in common.
Bon Jovi had reached out to Twain, explaining his struggles with “laryngeal nerve problems.” Given her past experiences related to Lyme disease, she was prepared to assist. “He just called me up and said, ‘Share everything you know about how you recovered your voice after nerve atrophy,’” Twain recounted. She promptly shared her surgeon’s details and urged Bon Jovi to consider all aspects of the procedure.
Twain candidly revealed that her own surgery changed her voice permanently. “It’s never been the same,” she admitted. However, she embraced the changes, stating, “I’m way more gravelly. I have this rasp. I have more character.” Despite the alterations to her vocal ability, she expressed gratitude for being able to sing, saying, “I can hold a note, and I can be loud and proud.”
She didn’t shy away from highlighting the daunting nature of the procedure, as well. “It’s an open-throat surgery, and you have to be awake,” Twain warned Bon Jovi. “I told him that it was important to hear this from someone who has been through it.” The nature of such operations can deter many, but Twain emphasised the importance of making a courageous decision when faced with vocal issues.
Reflecting on the surgery and recovery, Twain noted that there is no assurance of a successful outcome in terms of voice restoration. “You have to be brave, and you have to make a choice. You either never sing again or take the chance,” she advised. For Twain, the decision was worth it, as she learned to appreciate her unique vocal character post-surgery.
In a subsequent conversation with PEOPLE in April 2024, Bon Jovi acknowledged Twain’s integral role in his journey. He referred to her as his “spirit sister” and praised her for being the only artist he knew who had undergone the same procedure. The connection to their doctor, Robert Sataloff, further solidified this bond.
In reflecting on their friendship, Bon Jovi noted how Twain reassured him about the surgery. “I think she also pulled my leg a little bit because she told me I’d be out there a lot sooner than I have been,” he shared with a laugh. Ultimately, he was motivated by Twain’s encouragement to proceed with the operation.
After his successful surgery in 2022, both artists celebrated Bon Jovi’s achievements at the MusiCares Person of the Year Gala in February 2024. Bon Jovi was the honouree at the event, where Twain performed a tribute, delivering a cover of his iconic song “Bed of Roses.”
With her latest album, *Little Miss Twain*, recently released, Shania Twain continues to be a formidable presence in the music industry. Her journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie among artists, particularly in times of adversity. For more about Twain’s latest work and her inspiring story, readers can pick up the new edition of PEOPLE available on newsstands.