Jon Bon Jovi’s new bar in Nashville, dubbed JBJ’s Nashville, has opened, welcoming fans to the five-story, 37,000-square-foot spectacle of live music entertainment, which includes one mesmerizing feature: a permanent hologram of Bon Jovi himself.
The virtual Bon Jovi comes courtesy of Proto Inc., who partnered with the venue and Big Plan Holdings to install a hologram unit that would beam-in a 4k version of the rock star, as well as surprise celebrity guests. Later this year, an additional Proto unit will be installed to include Bon Jovi’s bandmates from his namesake band, as well.
Unlike the performing “holograms” that some might be familiar with, like Hatsune Miku or the ABBA Voyage shows, the Proto holograms place the subject in a controlled booth, almost like a life-size Barbie doll box, which mimics uber-realistic lighting and presence.
Other locations have begun introducing Proto units, like JFK Airport in New York and Jimmy Kimmel’s comedy club in Las Vegas, but JBJ’s unit marks the first time that the holograms will be available in a music venue. “This innovative addition of the Proto Hologram of Jon at JBJ’s exemplifies the commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences here on Broadway,” Matthew Bongiovi, of Bon Jovi Management, said in a statement.
“I’m thrilled to see Jon Bon Jovi integrating Proto Hologram technology into JBJs Nashville,” said David Nussbaum, founder of Proto Hologram. “Our technology transforms live performances into a ‘Runaway’ experience, allowing artists like Jon Bon Jovi to connect with their audiences in a way that’s never been possible before. It’s an honor to be part of such an innovative project, and I can’t wait for fans to experience the magic firsthand.”
Check out a photo of Bon Jovi with the hologram of himself below.
All of this comes as Bon Jovi celebrates 40 years of being a band. In April, the Hulu docuseries Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story premiered. Earlier this month, the band’s 16th studio album, Forever, arrived, and is currently sitting at No. 5 on the Billboard 200.