My Chemical Romance Pays Tribute to Bon Jovi with ‘Livin’ On a Prayer’ Cover

## My Chemical Romance’s Tribute to New Jersey

While not formally required, it seems major acts performing at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey feel compelled to honor the venue’s significance. Recent performances by Coldplay and Zach Bryan included a special nod to local legend Bruce Springsteen. This past weekend, My Chemical Romance (MCR) upheld this tradition by covering what frontman Gerard Way deemed “perhaps the state anthem of New Jersey”: Bon Jovi’s iconic “Livin’ on a Prayer.”

### An Unforgettable Performance

During MCR’s show on Saturday, part of the Long Live the Black Parade Tour, the band performed their entire *The Black Parade* album. To wrap up the evening, they burst into Bon Jovi’s classic, which is astonishingly approaching its 40th anniversary. Gerard Way shared with the audience that this was one of only two karaoke songs he has ever sung. Interestingly, he may hold the unique distinction of being the first musician to perform in army fatigues. Although he stumbled slightly during the second verse—laughing as he admitted, “so fuckin’ high”—the band delivered a faithful rendition of the lively anthem, capturing its pulsating rhythm and Richie Sambora’s iconic guitar riffs. Fun fact: MCR opened for Bon Jovi back in 2007 at a venue in Jersey.

### A Milestone Event

This concert was already significant before the cover performance took place. It marked MCR’s first headlining show at the sprawling 80,000-seat stadium in their home state. During the concert, the band was honored with a key to the city of Belleville, where three members, including Gerard and his brother Mikey, grew up. In a memorable moment, Belleville’s mayor, Michael Melham, informed the audience that the city is also known for being home to The Four Seasons and the late pop icon Connie Francis.

The Long Live the Black Parade tour, which kicked off last month in Seattle, will conclude in Atlanta at the end of September before heading to South America early next year. Recently, the band also announced two surprise shows at London’s Wembley Arena in July.

As MCR continues to create memorable experiences for their fans, what are your favorite concert moments?