Since the unexpected departure of Richie Sambora from Bon Jovi in 2013, the guitarist Phil X has taken on the significant responsibility of faithfully recreating the legendary riffs that have defined the band?s sound. Over the years, Phil X has developed a clear approach to his craft that emphasizes emotional expression over technical complexity. As he explains in an upcoming episode of the UCR Podcast, ?There isn’t anything that’s really technically difficult as far as guitar playing, but capturing the intended emotion can be quite a challenge.? For instance, he highlights the iconic introduction of ‘Bed of Roses,’ stating that while anyone can play the notes, the real challenge lies in delivering them with the right emotion just before Jon Bon Jovi?s powerful vocals enter.

Phil X emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional weight of specific parts in the songs. ?I knew I had to do it that way. It wasn?t just about learning the notes; it was about recognizing the significance of the moment,? he elaborates. He notes that the interplay between piano and soaring guitar creates a delicate atmosphere that must be captured perfectly, illustrating that achieving the right tone and feel requires a laid-back yet precise approach. This can sometimes be a challenge, especially when coordinating singing and playing simultaneously, which adds another layer of complexity to his performances.

The guitarist believes that being in the right mental space is crucial for delivering a great performance. ?You have to immerse yourself in the music and truly become part of it,? he says, referencing his unique position within the band. ?If Richie is on one side of the spectrum and I?m on the other, there?s a middle ground that emerges every night.? Phil X acknowledges that while he can?t replicate Richie?s style exactly, he finds a balance that honors the band?s legacy while bringing his own flair to the performance. This middle ground is where he thrives, delivering powerful renditions of Bon Jovi classics.

After years of collaboration with the band, Phil X reflects on his journey and the choices he has made. ?I feel confident that I made the right decision,? he states. He emphasizes the need for respect?not only for the band and its history but also for the songs and the fans who cherish them. ?You can?t change the iconic solos in tracks like ‘Livin on a Prayer’ or ‘Wanted Dead or Alive.’ Those are sacred. I strive to replicate the record as closely as possible because those recordings resonate deeply with me.? He recalls how even during his long tenure with Bon Jovi, Richie had the freedom to modify his solos, something Phil X chooses not to do, instead opting to honor the original arrangements that fans adore.

Watch Bon Jovi Perform ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’

Phil X also relishes the opportunity to express his creativity within the framework of Bon Jovi?s music. He mentions, ?I do get to spread my wings with songs like ‘Keep the Faith’ in live performances. For newer tracks like ‘This House is Not for Sale,’ we often extend the song with a coda during our set, allowing me to showcase my unique style, which is incredibly fulfilling.? He acknowledges that fans appreciate these moments, often expressing their enjoyment of hearing him stretch his musical abilities. However, he remains committed to performing the music as it was originally intended when it?s time to deliver the classics.

READ MORE: All 359 Bon Jovi Songs Ranked

Excitement is building around the upcoming release of POW! Right in the Kisser, the latest album from Phil X and the Drills, set to drop on March 28. This dynamic collection promises to satisfy fans of hard rock while also offering tracks with a refreshing power pop influence. The album features a robust lineup of guest drummers, including the legendary Liberty DeVitto, known for his work with Billy Joel, who contributed to the poignant track “Broken Arrow.” Phil wrote this song while processing the loss of his friend Chris Cornell from Soundgarden. Moreover, the album includes contributions from longtime collaborator Tommy Lee of Mötley Crüe, whom Phil X describes as “underrated.”

Phil X shares, ?The songs just kept flowing. Many tracks on this record were written long ago but never recorded until now. I continued to write even while touring with Bon Jovi, which allowed me to tap into diverse drummers to bring these songs to life.? He notes that his bandmate Tico Torres added his unique flair to the track “Find a Way” during a tour stop in Las Vegas, showcasing the collaborative spirit that characterizes his work.

Future Touring Plans for Phil X and Their Impact on Solo Shows

As for future touring, Phil X hints at how Bon Jovi?s schedule will influence his solo performances. Currently, he is set to perform several shows in Texas following the album’s release, but he acknowledges that possible commitments to Bon Jovi in 2025 will shape his plans for the rest of the year. ?I?m eagerly awaiting confirmation of the ?other schedule? so that I can finalize my plans,? he adds, indicating that he is ready to adapt his schedule based on the band’s needs.

Listen to Phil X & the Drills’ ‘Moving to California’