Why is Bon Jovi so popular (but Dio and Queensryche aren't)?

[TKramar]

One thing about Dio--he's short.

Not that he can't sing--because he can--but he's short.

Bon Jovi probably appeals because they're "safer" and appeal more to pop sensibilities, than the harder rocking bands you mentioned. (Does Dio have a "ballad", I know Queensryche did, "Silent Lucidity"--always thought that had a Pink Floyd vibe to it myself.)

[Herbrocks]

If the question is "why is BON JOVI the more popular mainstream band now, when all 3 bands were about the same size in the early 80's", I would say being a "sex symbol" helped keep BJ in the public eye, also the general celebrity of Jon and Richie. I think Richie is one of the few rock guitarists most housewifes could name. Having a couple actual post 80s "hits" also helped a lot.

Another factor not to be discounted is the pride and support given to BJ by the people of New Jersey, he is like a hero there.

Also, DIO and QUEENSRYCHE are not as accessable to average tastes, while of course they are the better metal bands. For metal fans, they tower over BJ. JMO