Jon Bon Jovi is still “heartbroken” over Richie Sambora's departure from the band.
The guitarist abruptly quit the group in 2009 after failing to show up to a concert in Calgary, Canada, and his former bandmates are still confused about his actions, despite reaching out to them.
John told Record Collector magazine: “It's heartbreaking that Richie has left, and that he left in the way that he did.
“We are shocked and will miss him personally and creatively, both in the studio and as an integral part of the band onstage.
“But if I don't show up to work, my boss is like, 'You know what? Let me help you. If you don't want me to help you…'”
“It's been 11 years now. David and Tico have met Richie once and I've met him twice. It's not like we didn't try.”
The 'Always' hitmakers would welcome the musician back into the band, but now they need him to make the first move.
Bandmate David Bryan added: “Richie is our brother and we love him. It's all up to Richie. We never closed the door on him. He just didn't come back to work. Anything can happen.”
Following Richie's sudden departure, Powder guitarist Phil X stepped in to replace him, with the rest of the group praising him for fitting in well with the band.
Tico Torres said: “Phil [new album] “'Forever.' It doesn't happen overnight.”
John added: “It would have been a curse to try and emulate Richie.
“Phil's ability to blend in and yet stand out is a natural talent.
“I'll never co-write with Phil, but he filled a really big void.”