(RED BANK, NJ) -- The Count Basie Center for the Arts launched its Walk of Fame on September 25, 2025 with an inaugural ceremony honoring two legendary artists with deep ties to the historic venue: Jon Bon Jovi and William "Count" Basie.

“I really do appreciate you inducting me along with the great Count Basie, who was the original Monmouth County rock star,” said Jon Bon Jovi. “There are so many names who are just as deserving today. I look forward to the future generations who will continue the legacy of New Jersey and of Red Bank.”

The Walk of Fame celebrates artists who have performed at the Basie Center, made an enduring impact on culture, and whose contributions reflect the lasting power of the arts.

Jon Bon Jovi and Count Basie Center for the Arts President and CEO Adam Philipson

Jon Bon Jovi, raised just miles from Red Bank, rose to international fame as frontman of Bon Jovi, a band that has sold more than 130 million albums worldwide. Beyond his chart-topping music, Bon Jovi has consistently given back to the community. From his legendary holiday concerts at the Basie Center in the 1990s, to the HOPE Concerts that raised millions for local causes, to the launch of the JBJ Soul Kitchen with his wife Dorothea, his relationship with the Basie Center has spanned decades of performances, philanthropy, and partnership.

“Jon Bon Jovi has had a long and meaningful relationship with the Basie Center, standing with us through performances, partnerships, and moments that brought this community together,” said Adam Philipson, President and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts. “It’s fitting that we honor him alongside William ‘Count’ Basie, who is not only our namesake, but also a giant of American music whose artistry shaped generations.”

Born in Red Bank in 1904, Basie became one of the most influential figures in jazz, leading an orchestra whose music defined an era. A trailblazer who created the swing sound that made the world want to dance, Basie cemented his place as one of America’s greatest bandleaders.

“The Walk of Fame is a permanent way to honor the artists who have left their mark on the Basie Center and the world, while creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come,” said Jeremy Grunin, Chair of the Basie Center Board of Trustees. “By starting with Count Basie and Jon Bon Jovi, we are setting a standard that reminds us all of the extraordinary talent and impact that has come through the Basie Center doors, and will continue to, for the next hundred years and beyond.”

In addition to Philipson, Grunin and Bon Jovi, the ceremony featured remarks from Red Bank Mayor Billy Portman, Senator Vin Gopal, Monmouth County Commissioner Director Tom Arnone, and musician T.S. Monk, son of jazz icon Thelonious Monk.

T.S. Monk, son of jazz legend Thelonious Monk, accepted the honor on behalf of William "Count" Basie

The Walk of Fame debuts as part of the Basie Center’s 16-month long Centennial Celebration which commemorates the venue’s impact on arts, culture and community over the last 100 years. Information about events, partnerships and community engagement can be found here.

The Count Basie Center for the Arts creates shared educational, artistic, and community experiences that ignite curiosity, understanding, and joy. As a nonprofit organization, the Basie Center is committed to its responsive and inclusive programming, which reflects the diverse spirit and aspirations of its patrons, students, artists, and staff. The Basie Center has hosted an array of world-class artists, including Bruce Springsteen & the E-Street Band, Jon Bon Jovi, John Legend, Brandi Carlile, Crosby Stills & Nash, Tony Bennett, Diana Ross and Ringo Starr. Count Basie Center programming is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COUNT BASIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS