Bon Jovi, Count Basie will be inaugural members of N.J. theater’s Walk of Fame

One of New Jersey’s most famous residents, along with a famous Jazz musician, will soon be inaugural members of Count Basie Theater’s new Walk of Fame in Red Bank.

Rock star Jon Bon Jovi and the theater’s namesake, William “Count” Basie, will be enshrined this Thursday, the theater announced on social media.

Basie was announced earlier this year, but Bon Jovi was earlier touted only as a “surprise performer,” before being revealed as the other inductee on Monday.

“The Count Basie Center Walk of Fame will honor area artists whose early performances on the historic Basie Center stage gave way to worldwide fame and recognition,” the theater said on its website.

The walk of fame will be located on the sidewalk right in front of the Monmouth Street theater, which hosts musicians, comedians and other performances throughout the year.

Bon Jovi was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018 and Count Basie has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In addition to his musical achievements, Bon Jovi also opened JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank in 2011 to serve three-course meals regardless of a customer’s ability to pay.

The restaurant has since expanded into Toms River and Rutgers University-Newark.