Sheffield rock legends Def Leppard were honoured with the 2,824th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at a ceremony on Thursday. Joe Elliott, Phil Collen, Rick Savage, Vivian Campbell, and Rick Allen all attended the star unveiling ceremony, which featured a spoken tribute from Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi to his “brothers from across the ocean”.  Def Leppard’s coveted star is located at 1750 N. Vine Street in Hollywood directly in front of the iconic Capitol Records Building. Planet Rock presenter Joe Elliott name-checked founding guitarist Pete Willis and the late Steve Clark, who died aged 30 in 1991, during his speech.  “Are we in good company or what?!” Joe enthused. “So, from all of us up here, including Pete Willis and the late-great Steve Clark, we all say to each and every one of you, to our collective families, especially our parents who helped us get where we are now, just simply to our incredible, loving fan base out there, two words – thank you.” Jon Bon Jovi also recalled the close bond he formed with Def Leppard when they first met in 1986.  “We hit it off immediately. Hanging out with Joe and the guys felt like hanging with my own band, but with a different accent,” Jon said.  “We stayed in touch, and as they went on to record ‘Hysteria’ and we recorded ‘New Jersey’, it was the MTV era, what we refer to as the Gold Rush. Now, there have been many a long night in various cities after each other’s shows, and many celebrations, fun times and laughs and even the heartbreaks and loss.  “There’s just some things that you’re able to share with a brother from across the ocean that you just both understand.” Read more details below ⬇️⬇️

Sheffield Rock Legends Def Leppard Honored with Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

 

In a momentous celebration of their legendary career, the iconic British rock band Def Leppard was officially honored with the 2,824th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this past Thursday. The ceremony, filled with heartfelt speeches and warm tributes, underscored the band’s enduring influence on the global rock scene and their deep connection to their fans and fellow musicians alike.

 

**A Star in Hollywood for a Sheffield Band**

 

The unveiling took place at a prominent location on the Hollywood Boulevard: 1750 N. Vine Street, directly in front of the legendary Capitol Records Building — a symbol of the music industry’s historic heart in Los Angeles. The band members present included Joe Elliott, Phil Collen, Rick Savage, Vivian Campbell, and Rick Allen, each sharing their gratitude and reflections during the event. The moment was captured as a milestone not only for the band but also for their hometown of Sheffield, England, which has long been proud of their international success and contributions to rock music.

 

**Tributes and Reflections from Band Members**

 

Joe Elliott, the charismatic frontman of Def Leppard, delivered an emotional speech that paid homage to the band’s past members and acknowledged their journey. He notably mentioned Pete Willis, the founding guitarist who played a significant role in shaping the band’s early sound before his departure in the early 1980s, and the late Steve Clark, whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 30 in 1991. Clark’s death was a devastating blow to the band and their fans, but his legacy remains an integral part of Def Leppard’s story.

 

“Are we in good company or what?!” Joe exclaimed, expressing pride and humility. “So, from all of us up here, including Pete Willis and the late-great Steve Clark, we all say to each and every one of you, to our collective families, especially our parents who helped us get where we are now, just simply to our incredible, loving fan base out there, two words – thank you.”

 

**A Personal Bond with Fellow Rock Icons**

 

The ceremony was further enriched by a spoken tribute from Jon Bon Jovi, the legendary frontman of Bon Jovi, who shared his personal experiences with Def Leppard. Bon Jovi recalled the instant camaraderie he felt when he first met the band back in 1986, during the height of their respective careers.

 

“We hit it off immediately,” Bon Jovi said. “Hanging out with Joe and the guys felt like hanging with my own band, but with a different accent.” His words highlighted the genuine friendship that developed over the years, transcending borders and musical styles.

 

Jon Bon Jovi reminisced about their shared experiences during the MTV era, which he described as the “Gold Rush” for rock bands in the 1980s. He recalled long nights after shows, celebrating successes, sharing laughs, and supporting each other through heartbreaks and losses. “There’s just some things that you’re able to share with a brother from across the ocean that you just both understand,” he added, emphasizing the brotherhood and mutual respect among rock musicians.

 

**Def Leppard’s Impact and Musical Legacy**

 

Def Leppard’s journey to this milestone is marked by groundbreaking albums, including the multi-platinum “Hysteria,” which solidified their place in rock history. Their signature blend of hard rock, melodic hooks, and innovative production techniques made them one of the most successful bands of the 1980s and beyond. Hits like “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Photograph,” and “Love Bites” continue to resonate with fans across generations.

 

Throughout their career, the band has faced numerous challenges, including the tragic loss of Steve Clark and struggles with health issues, yet their resilience and dedication to their craft have never wavered. Their ability to evolve musically while staying true to their roots has earned them a loyal global following.

 

**The Significance of the Hollywood Walk of Fame**

 

Receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a prestigious honor, recognizing a performer’s significant contributions to entertainment industry and popular culture. For Def Leppard, this accolade not only celebrates their musical achievements but also cements their legacy within the pantheon of rock legends.

 

The ceremony was attended by fans, media, and fellow musicians, all gathered to witness this historic moment. The band’s star now stands among other legendary artists, symbolizing their lasting impact and the enduring power of their music.

 

**Closing Remarks and Future Outlook**

 

As the ceremony concluded, the band members expressed their gratitude once more, acknowledging the fans’ unwavering support and the importance of their musical journey. Joe Elliott summed it up by saying, “This is a moment we will cherish forever. We’re grateful for the love, the memories, and the opportunity to share our music with the world.”

 

Looking ahead, Def Leppard continues to tour and record new music, inspiring new generations of rock fans. Their Hollywood Walk of Fame star serves as a reminder of their extraordinary career and the timeless appeal of their rock anthems.

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