After more than 15 years, Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles are back together — this time with a powerful new message of hope and resilience.
The duo, who first topped the charts in 2006 with the hit “Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” have teamed up once again for a fresh take on Bon Jovi’s song “Do What You Can.” Originally written by Jon Bon Jovi during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the song highlights strength and unity during tough times.
The inspiration for the track came from Jon’s wife, Dorothea, who snapped a photo of him volunteering at a New Jersey community kitchen. She posted it with the caption, “If you can’t do what you do… do what you can,” which sparked the idea for the song. Just a day later, Bon Jovi had written the lyrics — a tribute to perseverance when life turns upside down.
Now, Jon and Jennifer have recorded a country version of the track, complete with a brand-new music video. The video honors the everyday heroes of the pandemic — from frontline workers to neighbors lending a helping hand.
“In 2005, Jennifer helped bring ‘Who Says You Can’t Go Home’ to number one on the country charts,” Jon shared in a press release. “Her emotional and powerful voice brought that message to life, and I knew she was the right voice to carry this one too.”
Jennifer, who rose to fame as the lead singer of Sugarland, reflected on the collaboration with pride and gratitude.
“Working with Bon Jovi all those years ago was such a special moment in my career,” she said. “That song changed a lot for me, and I’m thrilled to continue our story with ‘Do What You Can’ — or maybe I should say ‘Duet What You Can.’”
On social media, Nettles shared a clip of their 2006 duet and added, “Fifteen years ago, I got to sing with one of my musical heroes. That memory means the world to me — and now, getting to sing together again is another full-circle moment I’ll never forget.”
The song will also appear on Bon Jovi’s upcoming album, 2020, set to be released next month.
