“Please Come Home for Christmas” is a soulful Christmas ballad performed by Bon Jovi, released in 1994 as part of the A Very Special Christmas 2 compilation album. The song is a cover of Charles Brown’s 1960 blues holiday classic, written by Brown and Gene Redd. Bon Jovi’s version brings a rock edge to the heartfelt original while retaining the emotional depth of the lyrics. It was released as a single and became a seasonal favorite, showcasing the band’s versatility and Jon Bon Jovi’s emotive vocal delivery.
The original version of “Please Come Home for Christmas” by Charles Brown is a melancholy Christmas classic that has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Eagles in 1978. Bon Jovi’s rendition blends the band’s signature rock sound with the soulful, bluesy essence of the original.
The track was recorded as part of the A Very Special Christmas series, benefiting the Special Olympics, further adding a philanthropic dimension to its release. This initiative featured holiday-themed music by various popular artists to raise funds for a meaningful cause.
Bon Jovi’s version of “Please Come Home for Christmas” retains the bluesy, melancholic tone of the original while adding a polished rock ballad feel. The arrangement includes lush piano melodies, subtle guitar riffs, and orchestral backing, creating a warm, festive atmosphere. Jon Bon Jovi’s rich, heartfelt vocals infuse the song with both yearning and tenderness, emphasizing the emotional plea of the lyrics. The bittersweet tone of the lyrics resonates universally, making it a holiday classic for those who associate the season with love, nostalgia, and longing.
The music video for Bon Jovi’s “Please Come Home for Christmas” features supermodel Cindy Crawford alongside Jon Bon Jovi in a festive, romantic setting. The video captures the intimate and emotional essence of the song, with scenes of holiday decorations, snowfall, and moments of connection between the two stars.
While not a major commercial hit in terms of chart performance, Bon Jovi’s “Please Come Home for Christmas” received significant airplay during the holiday season and became a staple on Christmas music playlists. Its inclusion in the A Very Special Christmas 2 compilation contributed to the album’s success, which went multi-platinum and raised substantial funds for the Special Olympics.