Jon Bon Jovi is honouring the memory of his longtime friend, legendary Philadelphia radio host Pierre Robert, who died at age 70.
Beasley Media Group confirmed Robert’s passing on Oct. 29, saying he was found in his home. No cause of death was revealed, though no foul play is suspected.
Shortly after the news spread, Bon Jovi shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, reflecting on the DJ’s undeniable passion for music and the people who made it.
The rocker wrote, “Today we lost a great friend. Someone who truly LOVED music. All types of music. Someone who loved musicians. Not just famous ones, or chart toppers. He admired local artists and tomorrows rising stars.”
He paired his message with two photos of the pair together.
He went on to describe Robert as “curious” and “clever,” calling him “a real musicologist” who understood artists’ influences.
Bon Jovi added that Robert was a loyal friend who didn’t care about hype or trends, he cared about the music and the people behind it. He said that made a difference.
The singer also remembered how deeply Robert cared for others, writing, “His voice helped the hungry and the homeless, and he did it because he cared. About you, about me, about making the world a little kinder wonder filled place to live.”
He referred to Robert as “the loneliest man in showbiz,” someone dedicated to sharing the “gospel of the song” with anyone who listened.
Bon Jovi said Robert “passed away in his sleep” and expressed gratitude for the time they shared.
“The station was lucky to have him on the air. We were all lucky to have him as a guide to his musical galaxy And I was lucky to have him as a friend.. Thank you Pierre.. Godspeed, JBJ.”
Robert, known for his signature greeting, “Greetings Citizens,” joined Philadelphia’s WMMR in 1981 and quickly became a beloved voice. He hosted popular segments like Noontime Workforce Blocks, Pierre’s Vinyl Cut and his “On This Day” history notes.
In a 2011 interview, Robert once joked that Bon Jovi was “the most famous person in my cell phone,” a testament to their longtime bond.
Remembering Robert, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley said his love of music and strong connection with listeners made him “one of radio’s most enduring and beloved voices,” adding that he will be deeply missed.
Bon Jovi’s tribute captured the DJ’s lasting impact, on music, on communities and on the many people who were lucky enough to know him.
