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Steve Perry Walked Away From Journey. A Promise Finally Ended His Silence.

By Alex Pappademas

• Sept. 5, 2018

MALIBU, Calif. — On the back patio of a Greek restaurant, a white-haired man making his way to the exit paused for a second look at one of his fellow diners, a man with a prominent nose who wore his dark hair in a modest pompadour.

“You look a lot like Steve Perry,” the white-haired man said.

“I used to be Steve Perry,” Steve Perry said.

This is how it goes when you are Steve Perry. Everyone is excited to see you, and no one can quite believe it. Everyone wants to know where you’ve been.

In 1977, an ambitious but middlingly successful San Francisco jazz-rock band called Journey went looking for a new lead singer and found Mr. Perry, then a 28-year-old veteran of many unsigned bands. Mr. Perry and the band’s lead guitarist and co-founder, Neal Schon, began writing concise, uplifting hard rock songs that showcased Mr. Perry’s clean, powerful alto, as operatic an instrument as pop has ever seen. This new incarnation of Journey produced a string of hit singles, released eight multiplatinum albums and toured relentlessly — so relentlessly that in 1987, a road-worn Mr. Perry took a hiatus, effectively dissolving the band he’d helped make famous.

He did not disappear completely — there was a solo album in 1994, followed in 1996 by a Journey reunion album, “Trial by Fire.” But it wasn’t long before Mr. Perry walked away again, from Journey and from the spotlight. With his forthcoming album, “Traces,” due in early October, he’s breaking 20 years of radio silence.

Over the course of a long midafternoon lunch — well-done souvlaki, hold all the starches — Mr. Perry, now 69, explained why he left, and why he’s returned. He spoke of loving, and losing and opening himself to being loved again, including by people he’s never met, who know him only as a voice from the Top 40 past.

And when he detailed the personal tragedy that moved him to make music again, he talked about it in language as earnest and emotional as any Journey song:

“I thought I had a pretty good heart,” he said, “but a heart isn’t really complete until it’s completely broken.”

IN ITS ’80S heyday, Journey was a commercial powerhouse and a critical piñata. With Mr. Perry up front, slinging high notes like Frisbees into the stratosphere, Journey quickly became not just big but huge . When few public figures aside from Pac-Man and Donkey Kong had their own video game, Journey had two. The offices of the group’s management company received 600 pieces of Journey fan mail per day.

The group toured hard for nine years. Gradually, that punishing schedule began to take a toll on Journey’s lead singer.

“I never had any nodules or anything, and I never had polyps,” Mr. Perry said, referring to the state of his vocal cords. He looked around for some wood to knock, then settled for his own skull. The pain, he said, was more spiritual than physical.

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As a vocalist, Mr. Perry explained, “your instrument is you. It’s not just your throat, it’s you . If you’re burnt out, if you’re depressed, if you’re feeling weary and lost and paranoid, you’re a mess.”

“Frankly,” Mr. Schon said in a phone interview, “I don’t know how he lasted as long as he did without feeling burned out. He was so good, doing things that nobody else could do.”

On Feb. 1, 1987, Mr. Perry performed one last show with Journey, in Anchorage. Then he went home.

Mr. Perry was born in Hanford, Calif., in the San Joaquin Valley, about 45 minutes south of Fresno. His parents, who were both Portuguese immigrants, divorced when he was 8, and Mr. Perry and his mother moved in next door to her parents’. “I became invisible, emotionally,” Mr. Perry said. “And there were places I used to hide, to feel comfortable, to protect myself.”

Sometimes he’d crawl into a corner of his grandparents’ garage with a blanket and a flashlight. But he also found refuge in music. “I could get lost in these 45s that I had,” Mr. Perry said. “It turned on a passion for music in me that saved my life.”

As a teen, Mr. Perry moved to Lemoore, Calif., where he enjoyed an archetypally idyllic West Coast adolescence: “A lot of my writing, to this day, is based on my emotional attachment to Lemoore High School.”

There he discovered the Beatles and the Beach Boys, went on parked-car dates by the San Joaquin Valley’s many irrigation canals, and experienced a feeling of “freedom and teenage emotion and contact with the world” that he’s never forgotten. Even a song like “No Erasin’,” the buoyant lead single from his new LP has that down-by-the-old-canal spirit, Mr. Perry said.

And after he left Journey, it was Lemoore that Mr. Perry returned to, hoping to rediscover the person he’d been before subsuming his identity within an internationally famous rock band. In the beginning, he couldn’t even bear to listen to music on the radio: “A little PTSD, I think.”

Eventually, in 1994, he made that solo album, “For the Love of Strange Medicine,” and sported a windblown near-mullet and a dazed expression on the cover. The reviews were respectful, and the album wasn’t a flop. With alternative rock at its cultural peak, Mr. Perry was a man without a context — which suited him just fine.

“I was glad,” he said, “that I was just allowed to step back and go, O.K. — this is a good time to go ride my Harley.”

JOURNEY STAYED REUNITED after Mr. Perry left for the second time in 1997. Since December 2007, its frontman has been Arnel Pineda, a former cover-band vocalist from Manila, Philippines, who Mr. Schon discovered via YouTube . When Journey was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last April, Mr. Pineda sang the 1981 anthem “Don’t Stop Believin’,” not Mr. Perry. “I’m not in the band,” he said flatly, adding, “It’s Arnel’s gig — singers have to stick together.”

Around the time Mr. Pineda joined the band, something strange had happened — after being radioactively unhip for decades, Journey had crept back into the zeitgeist. David Chase used “Don’t Stop Believin’” to nerve-racking effect in the last scene of the 2007 series finale of “The Sopranos” ; when Mr. Perry refused to sign off on the show’s use of the song until he was told how it would be used, he briefly became one of the few people in America who knew in advance how the show ended.

“Don’t Stop Believin’” became a kind of pop standard, covered by everyone from the cast of “Glee” to the avant-shred guitarist Marnie Stern . Decades after they’d gone their separate ways, Journey and Mr. Perry found themselves discovering fans they never knew they had.

Mark Oliver Everett, the Los Angeles singer-songwriter who performs with his band Eels under the stage name E, was not one of them, at first.

“When I was young, living in Virginia,” Mr. Everett said, “Journey was always on the radio, and I wasn’t into it.”

So although Mr. Perry became a regular at Eels shows beginning around 2003, it took Mr. Everett five years to invite him backstage. He’d become acquainted with Patty Jenkins, the film director, who’d befriended Mr. Perry after contacting him for permission to use “Don’t Stop Believin’” in her 2003 film “Monster.” (“When he literally showed up on the mixing stage the next day and pulled up a chair next to me, saying, ‘Hey I really love your movie. How can I help you?’ it was the beginning of one of the greatest friendships of my life,” Ms. Jenkins wrote in an email.) Over lunch, Ms. Jenkins lobbied Mr. Everett to meet Mr. Perry.

They hit it off immediately. “At that time,” Mr. Everett said, “we had a very serious Eels croquet game in my backyard every Sunday.” He invited Mr. Perry to attend that week. Before long, Mr. Perry began showing up — uninvited and unannounced, but not unwelcome — at Eels rehearsals.

“They’d always bust my chops,” Mr. Perry said. “Like, ‘Well? Is this the year you come on and sing a couple songs with us?’”

At one point, the Eels guitarist Jeff Lyster managed to bait Mr. Perry into singing Journey’s “Lights” at one of these rehearsals, which Mr. Everett remembers as “this great moment — a guy who’s become like Howard Hughes, and just walked away from it all 25 years ago, and he’s finally doing it again.”

Eventually Mr. Perry decided to sing a few numbers at an Eels show, which would be his first public performance in decades. He made this decision known to the band, Mr. Everett said, not via phone or email but by showing up to tour rehearsals one day carrying his own microphone. “He moves in mysterious ways,” Mr. Everett observed.

For mysterious Steve Perry reasons, Mr. Perry chose to make his long-awaited return to the stage at a 2014 Eels show at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, Minn. During a surprise encore, he sang three songs, including one of his favorite Eels tunes, whose profane title is rendered on an edited album as “It’s a Monstertrucker.”

“I walked out with no anticipation and they knew me and they responded, and it was really a thrill,” Mr. Perry said. “I missed it so much. I couldn’t believe it’d been so long.”

“It’s a Monstertrucker” is a spare song about struggling to get through a lonely Sunday in someone’s absence. For Mr. Perry, it was not an out-of-nowhere choice.

In 2011, Ms. Jenkins directed one segment of “Five,” a Lifetime anthology film about women and breast cancer. Mr. Perry visited her one day in the cutting room while she was at work on a scene featuring real cancer patients as extras. A woman named Kellie Nash caught Mr. Perry’s eye. Instantly smitten, he asked Ms. Jenkins if she would introduce them by email.

“And she says ‘O.K., I’ll send the email,’ ” Mr. Perry said, “but there’s one thing I should tell you first. She was in remission, but it came back, and it’s in her bones and her lungs. She’s fighting for her life.”

“My head said, ‘I don’t know,’ ” Mr. Perry remembered, “but my heart said, ‘Send the email.’”

“That was extremely unlike Steve, as he is just not that guy,” Ms. Jenkins said. “I have never seen him hit on, or even show interest in anyone before. He was always so conservative about opening up to anyone.”

A few weeks later, Ms. Nash and Mr. Perry connected by phone and ended up talking for nearly five hours. Their friendship soon blossomed into romance. Mr. Perry described Ms. Nash as the greatest thing that ever happened to him.

“I was loved by a lot of people, but I didn’t really feel it as much as I did when Kellie said it,” he said. “Because she’s got better things to do than waste her time with those words.”

They were together for a year and a half. They made each other laugh and talked each other to sleep at night.

In the fall of 2012, Ms. Nash began experiencing headaches. An MRI revealed that the cancer had spread to her brain. One night not long afterward, Ms. Nash asked Mr. Perry to make her a promise.

“She said, ‘If something were to happen to me, promise me you won’t go back into isolation,’ ” Mr. Perry said, “because that would make this all for naught.”

At this point in the story, Mr. Perry asked for a moment and began to cry.

Ms. Nash died on Dec. 14, 2012, at 40. Two years later, Mr. Perry showed up to Eels rehearsal with his own microphone, ready to make good on a promise.

TIME HAS ADDED a husky edge to Mr. Perry’s angelic voice; on “Traces,” he hits some trembling high notes that bring to mind the otherworldly jazz countertenor “Little” Jimmy Scott. The tone suits the songs, which occasionally rock, but mostly feel close to their origins as solo demos Mr. Perry cut with only loops and click tracks backing him up.

The idea that the album might kick-start a comeback for Mr. Perry is one that its maker inevitably has to hem and haw about.

“I don’t even know if ‘coming back’ is a good word,” he said. “I’m in touch with the honest emotion, the love of the music I’ve just made. And all the neurosis that used to come with it, too. All the fears and joys. I had to put my arms around all of it. And walking back into it has been an experience, of all of the above.”

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Steve Perry

Who Is Steve Perry?

Steve Perry played in several bands before joining Journey in 1977. The band achieved tremendous pop rock success with its 1981 album Escape , which featured the now-classic "Don't Stop Believin'." As the group's lead singer, Perry became one of the era's most famous singers. He also had some hits on his own, including "Oh Sherrie." Perry left Journey in 1987, and except for a brief reunion, he remains a solo artist.

While attending high school in Lemoore, California, Perry played drums in the marching band. He tried college for a while, performing in the choir, but eventually abandoned school for his musical dreams. Hoping to break into the business, he moved to Los Angeles for a time. There, he worked a number of jobs, including singing on commercials and serving as an engineer in a recording studio. All the while, Perry played with a number of different groups as a vocalist and drummer. He seemed to be on the edge of a breakthrough with the group Alien Project, when it suddenly disbanded — tragically, one of its members was killed in a car crash.

Journey: "Oh Sherrie" and "Don't Stop Believin'"

In 1977, Perry caught his big break, landing a gig as the vocalist for Journey, which began performing as a jazz rock group in the early 1970s, in San Francisco. With Perry on board, the band moved more toward mainstream rock, and began to see some chart success with the first album with Perry, 1978's Infinity . The band's ode to San Francisco, "Lights," became a minor hit as did "Wheel in the Sky" and "Anytime."

Journey broken into the Top 20 with "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" on their next album, Evolution (1979). Buoyed by such hits as "Open Arms," "Who's Crying Now" and "Don't Stop Believin'," Escape (1981) became the band's first No. 1 album, selling more than 7 million copies. While the band was hugely popular with music fans, many critics were less than kind.

By the early 1980s, Journey had emerged as one of rock's top acts. Perry proved that while he may have been short in stature, he possessed one of the era's biggest and most versatile voices. He was equally adept at ballads, such as "Open Arms," and at rock anthems, such as "Any Way You Want It." Behind the scenes, Perry helped write these songs and many of the band's other hits. He penned their most enduring song, "Don't Stop Believin'," with guitarist Neal Schon and keyboardist Jonathan Cain.

Journey continued to be one of the era's top-selling acts, with 1983's Frontiers . The album featured such songs as "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" and "Faithfully." To support the recording, the band undertook an extensive world tour. Around that time, Journey also became the first band to license their music and likenesses for a video game.

With 1986's Raised on Radio , Journey enjoyed another wave of success. However, Perry was ready to part ways with his bandmates. Perry left the band in 1987 after the album tour. In a statement to People magazine, Perry explained: "I had a job burnout after 10 years in Journey. I had to let my feet hit the ground, and I had to find a passion for singing again." Perry was also struggling with some personal issues at the time; his mother had become very sick, and he spent much of his time caring for her before her death.

Perry reunited with Journey in 1996, for the reunion album Trial By Fire , which reached as high as the No. 3 on the album charts. But health problems soon sidelined the famous singer—a hip condition, which led to hip replacement surgery—and his bandmates decided to continue on without him.

Solo Projects

While still with Journey, Perry released his first solo album, Street Talk (1984). The recording sold more than 2 million copies, helped along by the hit single, "Oh Sherrie." Burnt out after splitting with Journey, Perry took some time out before working on his next project.

Nearly a decade later, Perry re-emerged on the pop-rock scene with 1994's For the Love of Strange Medicine . While the album was well-received—one ballad, "You Better Wait," was a Top 10 hit—Perry failed to reach the same level of success that he had previously enjoyed. In 1998, he provided two songs for the soundtrack of Quest for Camelot , an animated film. Perry also released Greatest Hits + Five Unreleased that same year.

Recent Years

While he has largely stayed out of the spotlight, Perry continues to be heard in movies and on television. His songs are often chosen for soundtracks, and Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" even played during the closing moments of the hit crime-drama series The Sopranos in 2007. In 2009, a cover version of the song was done for the hit high school musical show Glee , which introduced a new generation to Perry's work.

According to several reports, Perry began working on new material around 2010. He even built a studio in his home, which is located north of San Diego, California. "I'm finishing that room up and I've written a whole bunch of ideas and directions, all over the map, in the last two, three years," Perry told Billboard in 2012.

In 2014, Perry broke from his self-imposed exile from the concert stage. He appeared with the Eels at several of their shows. According to The Hollywood Reporter , Perry explained that "I've done the 20-year hermit thing, and it's overrated." His return to performing "has to do with a lot of changes in my life, including losing my girlfriend a year ago and her wish to hear me sing again" — referring to his romance with Kellie Nash, who died in late 2012 from cancer.

Although Perry and his old bandmates had long since ventured in separate directions, the group did reunite for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April 2017.

In the meantime, the singer began recording again. On August 15, 2018, he released his first new song in 20 years, the ballad "No Erasin." The track arrived ahead of his new album, Traces , his first full-length studio recording since For the Love of Strange Medicine in 1994.

Regardless of what the future holds, Perry has already earned a place in rock history. Rolling Stone magazine named him one of music's top 100 singers. According to American Idol judge and former Journey bassist, Randy Jackson, Perry's voice is one of kind. "Other than Robert Plant, there's no singer in rock that even came close to Steve Perry," Jackson said. "The power, the range, the tone—he created his own style. He mixed a little Motown, a little Everly Brothers, a little Zeppelin."

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Steve Perry
• Birth Year: 1949
• Birth date: January 22, 1949
• Birth State: California
• Birth City: Hanford
• Birth Country: United States
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: Steve Perry was the lead singer of pop rock band Journey from 1977 to 1987. He is known for having a wide vocal range, which can be heard on such popular hits as "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Oh Sherrie."
• Astrological Sign: Aquarius

We strive for accuracy and fairness.If you see something that doesn't look right, contact us !

CITATION INFORMATION

• Article Title: Steve Perry Biography
• Author: Biography.com Editors
• Website Name: The Biography.com website
• Url: https://www.biography.com/musicians/steve-perry
• Access Date:
• Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
• Last Updated: July 23, 2020
• Original Published Date: April 2, 2014

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Steve Perry: The Legendary Voice of Journey

• by history tools
• November 19, 2023

With his towering vocals and magnetic stage presence, Steve Perry is one of the greatest rock frontmen of all time. He is best known as the lead singer for Journey during their arena rock heyday. Perry‘s soaring tenor and passion helped define Journey‘s melodic power ballad sound on hits like "Don‘t Stop Believin‘." After leaving Journey, Perry went on to have a successful solo career. His new music in recent years proves his voice remains as captivating as ever decades later.

Humble Beginnings in Central California

Steve Perry was born on January 22, 1949 in the small central California town of Hanford. Music was always central in his family – his mother was a vocal coach who nurtured his singing talent from a young age. As a teen, Perry formed his first band and performed at local venues before leaving Hanford for greater opportunities.

Joining Journey and Rise to Fame

After stints in other bands, Perry became the lead singer for Journey in 1977, bringing his soaring tenor voice to their sound. His arrival came just as Journey was transitioning to a more melodic, pop-oriented style. Perry‘s vocals helped rocket Journey to the top – their 1981 album Escape, featuring "Don‘t Stop Believin‘," was their biggest success.

As Journey‘s frontman, Perry delivered powerful performances like raising his arms triumphantly while hitting the iconic high notes in "Don‘t Stop Believin‘." His charisma and connection with audiences cemented his status as one of rock‘s all-time great frontmen.

Life After Journey and Triumphant Return

Exhaustion from tour life led Perry to leave Journey in 1987. He continued writing and recording as a solo artist. Health issues in the 1990s made singing difficult for Perry, but he emerged in 2018 with Traces, his first album in 25 years. His voice had lost none of its emotion and splendor.

Now in his 70s, Steve Perry continues to inspire generations of music fans with his unbelievable vocals. His journey from small town singer to global rock god is a true American success story.

Fun Facts About Steve Perry

• Got the Journey gig by giving them a demo tape on which he sang in various voices
• Once took out a full page personal ad in Billboard to find a girl he met at a Journey concert
• Co-wrote the Journey hits "Open Arms" and "Faithfully" about his girlfriend at the time
• His mother coined the nickname "The Voice" because of his remarkable singing ability
• Steve Perry‘s trademark look included big hair, a headband, and aviator sunglasses

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25 Years Ago: Why Steve Perry Left Journey for Good

Journey  lost singer Steve Perry  for a second time on May 7, 1998. The first time, back in the '80s, Perry's exit had been voluntary – the result of recent solo success and growing indifference toward the band.

Left to their own devices at the time, former bandmates Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain formed Bad English with singer  John Waite . (Perry had fired founding bassist Ross Valory and longtime drummer Steve Smith during the sessions for 1986's Raised on Radio .)

A decade mostly gone from bright arena spotlights paved the way for Journey's triumphant mid-'90s reunion. The resulting Top 20 album, 1996's Trial by Fire , swam against the current of the era's reigning alt-rock. Three charting singles, a Grammy nomination and plans for a successful comeback tour made it seem just like the good old days.

Unfortunately, those touring plans were derailed when Perry suffered a hiking accident and refused to undergo the hip surgery necessary to get him back onstage. This opened the door to renewed ill will and undoubtedly dredged up memories of the singer's late-'80s power grab for Journey's fate.

Instead of bending to Perry's whims this time, the other members of Journey banked on their fan base's renewed support and unquenchable hunger for tour dates by recruiting a Perry soundalike Steve Augeri in order to get on with business.

The band's decision appeared to have been vindicated by a successful decade-plus of touring and recording with Augeri and, later, Arnel Pineda. Perry, for his part, maintained a relatively low profile, seemingly satisfied belting out "Don't Stop Believin'" from the bleachers of his hometown San Francisco Giants' baseball stadium, and occasionally showing up as a guest singer. He's only put out one proper solo album since, 2018's Traces . (Perry released a different version of the same LP in 2020, followed by The Season , an album of Christmas standards, in 2021).

Journey joined the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 . Before the ceremony, Schon said he hoped Perry would perform with him again. Instead, Perry ended up taking part only in the acceptance speeches, simply commenting : "I am truly grateful that Journey is being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

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Steve Perry interview: the return of The Voice

After the kind of success most can only dream about, former Journey singer Steve Perry said it was all over. Then he started believin’ again…

Some words he sang in 1981 have echoed down the years: ‘ Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feeling… ’ And yet in the life of Steve Perry there was a long period, the best part of 20 years, when his belief in music, and the feeling he put into it, seemed lost forever. 

For the man whose richly expressive, high-arcing voice helped Journey to become one of the biggest rock groups in America in the 80s, the now 69-year-old’s solo album, Traces , is a surprise comeback. It ends a self-imposed exile from the music business that began soon after Trial By Fire , his final album with Journey , released in 1996 – the year in which Oasis and the Spice Girls ruled the British charts, Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill was the biggest-selling album in America, Bill Clinton was in the White House and John Major was at Number 10. 

As Perry says now: “I had lost that deep passion in my heart for the inner joy of songwriting and singing. I sort of let it all go. If it came back, great; if it didn’t, so be it, because I’d already lived the dream of dreams.” 

His long absence from public life has made Perry something of an enigma; the guy who had it all and walked away, the legendary singer who fell silent. In all the time that Perry remained a recluse – as he puts it: “living my life in quietness, in privacy” – Journey carried on, bringing in Perry sound-alike singers Steve Augeri, Jeff Scott Soto and latterly Arnel Pineda, a Filipino discovered via YouTube performing in a Journey tribute band in Manila. 

Journey’s profile rose again when Don’t Stop Believin ’ , a Top 10 US hit in 1981 and a classic rock radio staple ever since, became more popular than ever, a global anthem, after it was featured in the cult film Monster, the acclaimed TV series The Sopranos and the hit teen show Glee . Perry, meanwhile, made only fleeting appearances in public – singing along to Don’t Stop Believin’ at baseball games, joining alternative rock group Eels on stage to run through old Journey hits and, more surprisingly, the Eels’ bluntly named It’s A Motherfucker.  

Before his comeback, Perry had felt he was done with his career in music. He also felt he had done enough. The classic albums he made with Journey and as a solo artist – from Infinity to Escape, Frontiers, Street Talk and Raised On Radio – had sold millions. The songs he sang had helped define a golden age of melodic rock. His return to music, so late in life, is not driven by a need for money or validation. It’s the result of something far more meaningful. 

“It came out of falling in love with somebody and then losing her a year and a half later,” Perry says. “Her name was Kellie Nash. She had stage four cancer when I met her, and we had made some promises to each other, one of which was that I would not go back to into isolation if something happened to her.” 

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After a moment’s hesitation, he says simply: “I kept that promise.”

It’s a late summer evening when Classic Rock catches up with Perry, at home near San Francisco. His high, singsong voice is unmistakable, his manner friendly and engaging. There is also a remarkable degree of candour in what he reveals about certain chapters in his life – his exit from Journey in the late 80s; his search for peace of mind away from the bright lights of rock stardom; most revealingly, his brief, intense relationship with Kellie Nash. In these moments he seems wide open, extraordinarily so for a man who retreated from fame and from the public gaze for such long a time. 

It is when addressing other subjects – specifically his past drug use and the possibility of him rejoining Journey – that his voice hardens a little and his answers turn more defensive or oblique, or rises as he parries a question with an offhand joke. From one such exchange comes a blunt disclosure. Asked why he rarely gave interviews to the press at the height of his fame in the 80s, he replies: “You really want to know? Will you print what I say right now?” He laughs long and hard. “Because I don’t trust journalists! I’ve had good experiences, and some not so good. I’m missing fingers, still, from the lion’s mouth.” 

He says he hated being misquoted in the press. More than that, what really hurt were the bad reviews the band received. For many critics, Journey’s everyman rock was always a soft target. “I only read three reviews in my whole life,” he says. “Then I decided I wasn’t going to read them any more. Every night, we’d get one encore, a second encore. That was my review. I didn’t need to read tomorrow’s paper.” 

So what’s changed? Perry says he has. “The passion for music came back. Singing again, I was getting goose bumps. It touches me. Nothing is bigger than that for me. So that’s why I’m talking to you now. Because I never thought I’d never feel like this again.”

When Perry thinks back to his childhood, he says wistfully: “Music is what I lived for as a kid.” 

Born on January 22, 1949 in Hanford, California, to Portuguese parents, he is an only child. It was at the age of 12 that he first dreamed of becoming a singer, after hearing soul legend Sam Cooke’s hit song Cupid . As a teenager, Perry, like so many of his generation, fell under the spell of The Beatles. In tribute, his new album includes a version of I Need You , one of the first songs George Harrison wrote for the group. 

In his early twenties, Perry fronted a number of California rock bands, one of which, Pieces, featured an established star in bassist Tim Bogert, who had been in Vanilla Fudge and Beck, Bogert & Appice. It was with Perry’s subsequent band, Alien Project, that he recorded a demo tape that caught the ear of Columbia Records executive Don Ellis. The band broke up in the summer of 1977 after bassist Richard Michaels was killed in a road accident. Soon afterwards, Ellis called Perry, first offering his sympathies, then a new opportunity – an audition with Journey. 

He’d seen Journey play live at LA club The Starwood. The group had been created as a vehicle for guitar virtuoso Neal Schon, a former member of Santana, and Perry liked what he heard: jazz rock fusion, serious chops. But the first three Journey albums had bombed, and bringing in singer Robert Fleischman to share vocals with keyboard player Gregg Rolie, also ex-Santana, was not working out. Behind Fleischman’s back, Perry met with the band after a show in Denver, Colorado. Later that night, in Schon’s hotel room, he and Perry wrote their first song together, a power ballad named Patiently . And with that, Perry was in. 

The first album he recorded with Journey, 1978’s Infinity , became the band’s first US Top-30 record, and more hits followed. But it was their 1981 album Escape , three albums later, that made them superstars. With Rolie having been replaced by Jonathan Cain, the band’s AOR sound was honed to perfection. Three Top 10 singles – Don’t Stop Believin’, Who’s Crying Now and Open Arms – helped power the album to No.1.

“We really struck a chord with Escape ,” Perry says now. “But when you reach a sort of peak moment where everything clicks, I don’t think it’s calculable. I think there’s a lot of luck involved. I think that, creatively, we were just in the right place at the right time.” 

After another multimillion seller, Frontiers , Perry also had a hit with his debut solo album Street Talk and the single Oh Sherrie . And it was at this point that the power dynamic within the group shifted. Journey had always been Neal Schon’s band, but it was Perry who took control of the 1986 album Raised On Radio , on which the singer’s soul influences dominated and the guitarist’s role was diminished. It was also during the making of this album that Perry’s mother died, which led him to re-evaluate his own life. In late 1986, when the Raised On Radio tour ended, he did not tell the band he was quitting. But as Jonathan Cain said: “I knew it was over. It was a sad, sad night.” 

I don’t trust journalists! I’m missing fingers, still, from the lion’s mouth. Steve Perry

Perry says now that he was burned out from 10 years of touring and recording. “The pace was fast, and we never stopped.” He also concedes that he partied too hard in those days. “It was the eighties!” he says, laughing. “Everybody was pretty much having a good time, put it that way.”

The laughter doesn’t last. When he’s asked for a little more detail, he gets rattled. Reminded of what he said on a recent US TV chat show, describing his state of mind in the 80s as “toasty” and “crispy” – words evocative of cocaine use – he says sharply: “Partying comes with all sorts of toasty behaviours. And that’s about all I’ll say about that.” But then just a moment later: “I never participated in toasty behaviours before a gig or during a gig,” he insists. “But after a gig, I’ll probably see you tomorrow after sound-check…”

Having left Journey behind, what followed, as he freely admits, was a struggle to adapt to a life without the band and all that went with it. 

“As much I missed the lights, as much as I missed the stage, the applause and the adoration of people who were loving the music I was participating in, I had to walk away from it to be okay emotionally on my own without it,” he says. “And that took time. That doesn’t mean I didn’t miss it, it means I had to keep walking the other way. There was some personal work to be done within myself, to be honest with you.” 

After Perry left Journey, Schon and Cain formed the supergroup Bad English with singer John Waite, who had previously worked alongside Cain in pop rock act The Babys. Perry eventually made a second solo album, 1994’s For The Love Of Strange Medicine . His reunion with Journey in 1996 was derailed by the cancellation of a major tour after Perry sustained a hip injury. The band waited two years before deciding to move on without him. And Perry quietly slipped away into a new life.

In the way that Perry describes his years away from the music business there is a sense of him drifting, and enjoying his freedom. He travelled the world, in a way he was never able to do as the star of a high-profile rock band. He had also made and saved enough money never to have to work again. Moreover, he explains, “I live small. I can only drive one car at a time.”

But he had not shut himself off from the outside world. “I was out of the limelight, but it wasn’t like I wasn’t tracking the reality of life.” And although he had left Journey behind, he was instrumental in the resurrection of Don’t Stop Believin’ – granting permission for the song to be used in Monster , a low-budget 2003 film starring Charlize Theron, and in the final episode of The Sopranos in 2007. 

The latter, for Perry, was a tough call. He loved The Sopranos , and was thrilled to hear that the show’s creator David Chase wanted to use Don’t Stop Believin’ in that episode’s closing scene. What troubled Perry was the prospect of his song – a song so full of love and hope – playing as the lead character, mafia boss Tony Soprano, got bumped off. It was only after Perry was told, in strict confidence, how the scene would play out that he gave Chase his consent. To Perry’s delight, the scene had Tony Soprano putting quarters into a jukebox and picking Don’t Stop Believin’ over songs by Heart and Tony Bennett. 

On the day after that final episode was shown on TV, Perry discovered that he was cooler than he had ever been before. “I was in an airport,” he recalls, “and these people went: ‘Hey Steve! Thumbs up, man! Tony Soprano loves Journey!’ It was amazing.” 

But it was his involvement in Monster , and the friendship he formed with the film’s director, Patty Jenkins, that would change the course of Perry’s life.

In 2013, after many years, Perry was working on music again. “I wasn’t sure how it was going to go,” he says. “It had been so long since I opened up my soul to that. But I allowed myself to do it with the idea that if I didn’t like what happened I would delete it and no one would ever hear it.” 

Then, through Jenkins, and purely by chance, he met Kellie Nash. For Perry this is a deeply personal story, but he says he’s comfortable discussing it in the public domain. “I totally am,” he says emphatically. “I will tell you how it came about, if you want me to tell you.” The inference in his voice is clear: this has profound meaning for him. 

“It started when I was watching Patty editing a TV show about cancer,” he begins. “Patty told me: ‘I put real people who have cancer on the set with my actors.’ And as the camera panned across all these people, I said: ‘Who’s that?’ She said: ‘It’s Kellie Nash, a friend of mine. She’s a PhD psychologist.’ I said: ‘Maybe I need a new shrink!’ Patty asked me why I wanted to know about Kellie. I said: ‘There’s something about her that’s talking to me.’ I asked Patty if she would email Kellie and say that her friend Steve would love to take her for a coffee. She said: ‘Okay. But before I send the email, there’s something I need to tell you. She has breast cancer. It’s in her bones and lungs and she’s fighting for her life…’” 

He takes a deep breath. “At that moment I didn’t know what to do. I’d lost my mother and my dad and my grandparents. I don’t think I was ready to get to know somebody just to lose them. My heart said send the email, my head said I don’t know. So I listened to my heart. 

“After two weeks of me going crazy, Patty says it’s okay for me to email Kellie. I’ll never forget it. You’d think I was writing the best lyric of my life. I wanted every word to be what I felt. After some emails between us, we talked on the phone for five hours one night. A few nights later we went to dinner at six o’clock and we closed that restaurant down at midnight. After that we were inseparable. 

“I remember telling her, about three or four dates later, that I was crazy about her and I loved her. She said: ‘I love you too.’ That’s when the conversations got really deep. We talked about her cancer, and she said: ‘This is some nasty stuff. I don’t think you want any of this.’ I said: ‘I don’t care.’ I told her: ‘It’s like two tracks on a rail. That’s what going on over there, and we’ll get through that together. But you and I are over here.’ 

“One night, when we were falling asleep, she said: ‘If something was to happen to me, promise me that you won’t go back to isolation and make this all for nought.’ I didn’t know how to navigate such a statement. She was looking at the arc of her whole life, and us getting together, loving each other. The possibility of us not being together, I just didn’t want to talk about it…” 

His voice shakes and trails off before he says quietly: “I made the promise. And then I lost her, twelfth of December, 2014.”

For the third time in his life, Perry’s career had been shaped by the loss of someone close to him. The death of Richard Michaels had led to Perry joining Journey. The death of his mother had contributed to his exit from the band. 

He says he still grieves for Nash. “I had a couple of years of serious crying,” he sighs, “and every now and again I still get mugged by it. It happened again just yesterday. But there was something she said to me: ‘This cancer might take my life, but it can never take our love for each other’. And I have found that to be absolutely true.” 

Nash was the inspiration for Perry’s new album Traces , but he does not think of this as simply a memorial. “Some of the songs are about Kellie,” he says. “Some are sad, but there are happy songs too – songs that rock, they’re joyful, they’re hopeful. And that emotion, finding my passion again for music, is certainly about her.” 

In the context of Perry’s career, Traces has a style and tone more reminiscent of his first solo record, Street Talk , than of his work with Journey. There’s a modern AOR feel in the album’s beautifully crafted opener No Erasin’ , and in the upbeat rock number Sun Shines Gray , and in a series of smooth ballads there are the soul and R&B influences that informed Street Talk . And while his voice has changed with age, now operating at a lower register, the essential qualities – the nuanced phrasing and the emotional depth – remain. 

“Nobody is the same as they were thirty years ago,” he says. “But I do tell you this: I am as emotionally as committed with what I’m trying to say with my voice now as I was then, if not more.”

In the way that Perry sings now, there is a similarity to Robert Plant. And just as Plant declined to be involved in a full-scale Led Zeppelin reunion in recent years, so Perry has consigned his former band to his past. Neal Schon has said the door is open for Perry to rejoin Journey, but Perry won’t be walking through it. 

“I think the band is doing really well,” he says. “Arnel is a great singer. And I’m enjoying what I’m doing. I love my new music, even if I’m sad that it took what it took – that my heart had to be broken to be complete. And after I swore I’d never do this again, I really believe in what I’m doing with this new record. Isn’t it better for the soul to keep reaching for the things that you’re afraid to do, not the things that are safe to do? Isn’t it better to keep pushing into the future so that you feel like you’re living your life on the edge as it unfolds? I think that Robert Plant is doing that, and it seems to me he’s loving it. Why go back? Throwing yourself into the abyss of the unknown, and trying to figure that out, is thrilling to me.” 

Perry’s says his comeback, so long in coming, and so unexpected, might not end with this one album. “I’ve had conversations about potential live shows,” he reveals. “And I’ve got a shitload more songs sitting around. I would love to do another record.” 

What is most surprising in all of this is that Perry has no regrets about all the time he’s been away: no sense that he might have, maybe should have, made more of his talent. 

“That was one of the things I pondered at one time,” he says. “But I have no problem with it, which is really amazing to me. I think the word ‘if’ is really a waste of time. As long as you’re doing the very best you can, in the moment, I don’t think it’s right to look back and think about ‘if’. Instead of looking at anything as a regret, I’d rather move forward. Right now that means more to me than anything.”

This feature originally appeared in Classic Rock 255 . Traces is out now . 

Freelance writer for Classic Rock since 2005, Paul Elliott has worked for leading music titles since 1985, including Sounds, Kerrang!, MOJO and Q . He is the author of several books including the first biography of Guns N’ Roses and the autobiography of bodyguard-to-the-stars Danny Francis. He has written liner notes for classic album reissues by artists such as Def Leppard, Thin Lizzy and Kiss, and currently works as content editor for Total Guitar . He lives in Bath - of which David Coverdale recently said: “How very Roman of you!”

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Journey Lead Singers In Order: History and Band Members

In this article, we delve into the captivating history of Journey, an iconic rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. From their humble beginnings to their meteoric rise to fame, Journey has mesmerized audiences worldwide with their unique sound and timeless hits. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the remarkable story of this legendary band.

Formation of the Band

Journey was formed in 1973 in San Francisco, California, bringing together a group of highly talented musicians. The founding members included Neal Schon, Gregg Rolie, Ross Valory, Aynsley Dunbar, and George Tickner. With their combined musical prowess and creative vision, they set out to create something extraordinary.

Early Years and Musical Style

During their early years, Journey experimented with a fusion of rock, jazz, and progressive influences, creating a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1975, showcased their musical versatility and marked the beginning of their incredible journey.

Evolution and Breakthrough Success

In 1977, Journey underwent a significant change that would forever shape its destiny. Steve Perry joined the band as their lead vocalist, injecting new energy and unparalleled vocal range into their music. This lineup change proved to be a turning point for Journey, leading to a series of chart-topping albums and unforgettable songs.

Chart-topping albums and Hit Singles

Journey’s breakthrough came in 1978 with the release of their album “Infinity,” which became a massive success. The album spawned the hit singles “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights,” propelling Journey into the mainstream spotlight. They continued their winning streak with subsequent albums, including “Evolution” (1979) and “Departure” (1980), which produced hits like “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” and “Any Way You Want It.”

The Iconic Album: “Escape”

In 1981, Journey released their most iconic album to date, “Escape.” This album elevated their status as rock superstars and solidified their place in music history. Featuring the mega-hits “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now,” “Escape” became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its emotionally charged lyrics and powerful melodies.

The Power Ballad Era

Journey’s success continued into the mid-1980s, defined by the rise of power ballads that struck a chord with fans worldwide. Songs like “Faithfully,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” and “Send Her My Love” showcased the band’s ability to create heartfelt and anthemic ballads that resonated deeply with listeners.

A Change in Direction

As the 1990s approached, Journey faced challenges and underwent significant lineup changes. Steve Perry departed from the band in 1987, leading to a period of transition as they searched for a new lead vocalist. Despite these challenges, Journey remained resilient and continued to produce music that captivated its loyal fan base.

Journey’s Enduring Legacy

Although the band’s popularity waned in the late 1990s, their music never faded from the hearts of their dedicated fans. Journey’s timeless classics continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, thanks to their emotional depth, infectious melodies, and inspiring lyrics. Their songs have become anthems for perseverance, love, and the power of music itself.

Past Journey band members include the following:

• Steve Perry (1977-1998)
• Aynsley Dunbar (1974-1978)
• Robert Fleischman (1977)
• Steve Smith (1978-1985, 1995-1998)
• Randy Jackson (1985-1987)
• Steve Augeri (1998-2006)

Current Journey band members:

• Neal Schon – Guitar (1973-present)
• Jonathan Cain – Keyboards (1980-present)
• Ross Valory – Bass (1973-1985, 1995-present)
• Arnel Pineda – Vocals (2007-present)
• Deen Castronovo – Drums (1998-present)

Lead Singers of Journey

Van Halen Lead Singers In Order: A Journey Through the Years

Black Sabbath Singers In Order: Ever-Changing Lineup of Black Sabbath

The Original Journey: Gregg Rolie’s Era

Gregg Rolie, a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, served as the original lead singer of Journey. He began his musical career as a co-founder and lead vocalist of Santana before joining forces with Neal Schon to form Journey. Rolie’s soulful voice and exceptional skills as a keyboardist and harmonicist contributed to the band’s early success. He showcased his talent on albums like “Journey,” “Look into the Future,” and “Next.” However, Rolie transitioned to co-lead vocals when Steve Perry joined the band in 1977.

Steve Perry: The Voice of Journey’s Greatest Hits

Steve Perry, widely recognized as the quintessential Journey lead singer, propelled the band to unprecedented heights during their most commercially successful era. Born with a gift for singing, Perry’s powerful and emotive vocals struck a chord with audiences worldwide. With Perry at the helm, Journey released a string of chart-topping albums, including “Infinity,” “Escape,” and “Frontiers.” Iconic songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Faithfully” became anthems for a generation. Perry’s remarkable songwriting abilities and magnetic stage presence contributed to the band’s enduring legacy.

Current Lead Singer: Arnel Pineda

Following Steve Perry’s departure in 1987, Journey experienced a series of lead singer changes. Steve Augeri, known for his vocal range and stage charisma, took over from 1998 to 2006. Jeff Scott Soto briefly joined the band in 2006, leaving his mark with his distinctive style. However, it was Arnel Pineda who breathed new life into Journey as the current lead singer. Pineda’s incredible vocal resemblance to Steve Perry, coupled with his dynamic stage presence, won the hearts of fans worldwide. Since 2008, Pineda has seamlessly integrated into the band, injecting fresh energy and passion into their performances.

Journey’s Enduring Discography: Albums That Defined an Era

Over the past five decades, Journey has released a diverse and extensive discography, showcasing their musical prowess and creativity. Let’s explore some of their most iconic albums:

“ Infinity ” (1978): With Steve Perry as the lead singer, “Infinity” marked a significant turning point for Journey. It featured hit singles like “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights,” solidifying their place in the rock music landscape.

“ Escape ” (1981): This album became a monumental success, boasting chart-topping hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” “Escape” catapulted Journey to international stardom and remains one of their most beloved records.

“ Frontiers ” (1983): Building upon their previous success, “Frontiers” showcased Journey’s evolution with tracks like “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” and “Faithfully.” The album’s polished production and memorable hooks solidified Journey’s status as one of the biggest rock bands of the 1980s.

“ Raised on Radio ” (1986): Released during the band’s final years with Steve Perry, “Raised on Radio” featured a more radio-friendly sound and produced hits like “Be Good to Yourself” and “I’ll Be Alright Without You.” Despite tensions within the band, the album showcased their ability to create catchy, melodic rock tunes.

“ Revelation ” (2008): With Arnel Pineda as the lead singer, “Revelation” marked a new chapter for Journey. The album featured new recordings of their classic hits, reaffirming Pineda’s vocal prowess and rekindling the band’s popularity among longtime fans and a new generation.

“ Eclipse ” (2011): Continuing their musical journey with Pineda, Journey released “Eclipse,” a record that showcased their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The album demonstrated their enduring songwriting skills and featured tracks like “City of Hope” and “Edge of the Moment.”

“Escape & Frontiers Live in Japan” (2019): As a testament to their enduring appeal, Journey released a live album featuring their performances of the “Escape” and “Frontiers” albums in their entirety. The release showcased the band’s timeless hits in a live setting, capturing the energy and excitement of their concerts.

Journey’s Impact and Legacy

Journey’s impact on the rock music landscape cannot be overstated. With their infectious melodies, anthemic choruses, and powerful vocals, they carved out a unique sound that resonated with millions of listeners. Their music transcended generations, becoming the soundtrack to countless moments and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.

Steve Perry’s tenure as the lead singer marked the band’s most successful period, and his distinct voice became synonymous with Journey’s sound. His emotional delivery and ability to connect with audiences elevated their songs to new heights and created an unparalleled legacy.

Arnel Pineda’s addition to the band injected new energy into Journey and allowed them to continue their musical journey. Pineda’s remarkable vocal resemblance to Perry breathed new life into the band’s live performances, earning him a dedicated fanbase and ensuring that Journey’s music lives on.

Journey’s timeless hits continue to be celebrated and embraced today. Songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” have become cultural touchstones, appearing in films, TV shows, and sporting events, and capturing the imaginations of new generations of listeners.

Journey Band Member’s Ages

Here, is the list of all the Journey member’s ages. It seems like all of the Journey band members are above 50 and below 80.

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JOURNEY: New Documentary 'A Voice Lost...And Found' To Premiere On REELZ This Weekend

"Journey: A Voice Lost...And Found" will premiere on Reelz on Sunday, June 25 at 9 p.m. EDT / 6 p.m. PDT.

The official program synopsis: JOURNEY dominated the American music scene in the 1970s and 1980s with their epic arena rock anthems and power ballads. Frontman Steve Perry was dubbed "The Voice" thanks to the untouchable vocal stylings that burned up the radio waves and made him a household name. But the bigger JOURNEY became the more miserable Perry grew. He was the rare rock superstar who craved anonymity more than applause.

Then at the height of the band's success Perry did the unthinkable quitting JOURNEY . That alone should've been an absolute death knell for a band so defined by a single voice. But JOURNEY 's other longtime members refused to give up the dream and brought in a new singer to keep the music going.

Fans were livid that anyone would dare to try to fill Perry 's shoes. Shows were played in empty houses and threats were even made against the band. When that replacement singer didn't work out desperation forced the band to turn to YouTube for the most unlikely inspiration.

JOURNEY members Jonathan Cain and Deen Castronovo are joined by former members Jeff Scott Soto and Narada Michael Walden , as well as SiriusXM radio personality Eddie Trunk and former JOURNEY producer Kevin Elson to tell the band's amazing tale.

"Journey: A Voice Lost...And Found" is produced by AMS Pictures .

Reelz is available in more than 40 million homes on DIRECTV (238), DISH Network (299), Verizon FiOS TV (692HD), AT&T U-verse (799/1799HD) and Xfinity , Spectrum , Optimum , Mediacom , Peacock , Philo , Freecast , DIRECTV Stream , Dish Sling and many other cable systems and major streaming services nationwide. Find Reelz in your area by visiting www.reelz.com .

Owned by Hubbard Media Group , Reelz is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico with national ad sales based in New York City with offices in Chicago and Los Angeles.

Sadly I don't have Reelz as I use YouTube TV, if there is anyone who can work out how to make a .mov .mkv .mv4 .MP4 or otherwise of this show, please DM me, I would LOVE to see it since I'm in it!! 🙏🤘😘 https://t.co/LpLHhO0i6F — Jeff Scott Soto (@jeffscottsoto) June 23, 2023

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10 Best Steve Perry Songs of All Time

List of the top 10 best steve perry songs of all time.

Steve Perry is an iconic American singer-songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Journey. Born on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California, Perry’s distinctive tenor voice and impassioned delivery helped propel Journey to international fame during the 1970s and 1980s.

Perry joined Journey in 1977, replacing their former lead singer, and quickly became the face and voice of the band. His powerful vocals and emotive performances played a significant role in defining the band’s sound and contributed to their string of chart-topping hits, including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Faithfully.”

Beyond his work with Journey, Perry also pursued a successful solo career, releasing several acclaimed albums, including “Street Talk” and “For the Love of Strange Medicine.” His solo work showcased his versatility as a vocalist and songwriter, exploring a range of musical styles from rock and pop to R&B and soul.

Perry’s impact on the world of music extends far beyond his chart success. His soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic stage presence have earned him a devoted fanbase and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest rock singers of all time. Even in his later years, Perry’s influence continues to be felt, inspiring new generations of artists and fans alike.

Table of Contents

1. Don’t Stop Believin’ (with Journey)

“Don’t Stop Believin'” is an iconic rock anthem by the American band Journey, released in 1981 as the lead single from their album “Escape.” The song is celebrated for its infectious melody, uplifting lyrics, and powerful vocals, particularly those of lead singer Steve Perry.

“Don’t Stop Believin'” is characterized by its driving rhythm, memorable keyboard riff, and soaring guitar solos, all of which contribute to its timeless appeal. Perry’s impassioned vocals, delivered with conviction and emotion, convey a message of hope, perseverance, and the power of belief, making the song resonate with audiences across generations.

Lyrically, “Don’t Stop Believin'” tells the story of a small-town girl and a city boy who embark on a journey to find love and fulfillment in the bustling metropolis. Despite facing challenges and setbacks along the way, they refuse to give up on their dreams, holding onto hope and determination as they pursue their aspirations.

“Don’t Stop Believin'” became one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved songs, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and achieving widespread acclaim. Its anthemic chorus, with its iconic refrain of “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feelin’,” has become a rallying cry for resilience and optimism, inspiring countless listeners to persevere in the face of adversity.

Over the years, “Don’t Stop Believin'” has achieved legendary status, earning recognition as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its universal message of hope and its timeless appeal continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite at concerts and sporting events alike.

2. Faithfully (with Journey)

“Faithfully” is a power ballad by the American rock band Journey, featuring lead vocals by Steve Perry. Released in 1983 as the second single from their album “Frontiers,” the song became one of Journey’s most iconic and enduring hits.

With its heartfelt lyrics and soaring melody, “Faithfully” tells the story of a musician’s life on the road and the challenges of maintaining a relationship while being away from home. Perry’s emotive vocals convey a sense of longing and devotion, capturing the essence of love and commitment.

Musically, “Faithfully” is characterized by its anthemic chorus, lush keyboard arrangements, and memorable guitar solos. The song’s dynamic shifts and powerful crescendos add to its emotional impact, making it a standout track in Journey’s catalog.

“Faithfully” struck a chord with audiences around the world, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a staple of rock radio. Its timeless message of love and loyalty continues to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as one of Journey’s signature songs and a classic in the rock ballad genre.

3. Open Arms (with Journey)

“Open Arms” is a power ballad by the American rock band Journey, featuring lead vocals by Steve Perry. Released in 1981 as the third single from their album “Escape,” the song became one of Journey’s most beloved and enduring hits.

With its heartfelt lyrics and emotional melody, “Open Arms” expresses the longing and vulnerability of love. Perry’s soulful vocals convey a sense of yearning and devotion, capturing the universal experience of longing for connection and intimacy.

Musically, “Open Arms” is characterized by its gentle piano intro, soaring vocal harmonies, and melodic guitar solos. The song’s lush instrumentation and dynamic arrangement create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth, drawing listeners in with its heartfelt sentiment.

“Open Arms” struck a chord with audiences around the world, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a staple of soft rock radio. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners, making it one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved songs.

4. Oh Sherrie

“Oh Sherrie” is a classic rock song by American singer-songwriter Steve Perry, released as a single in 1984. It’s renowned for its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful vocal performance by Perry.

Written by Perry, “Oh Sherrie” is a love song inspired by his relationship with Sherrie Swafford, his real-life girlfriend at the time. The song expresses Perry’s deep affection and longing for Sherrie, with lyrics that convey the intensity of his emotions and his desire to be with her.

Musically, “Oh Sherrie” features a dynamic arrangement, with driving guitar riffs, a pulsating rhythm section, and melodic keyboard lines. Perry’s soulful vocals take center stage, showcasing his impressive vocal range and emotional delivery. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Oh Sherrie, our love holds on, holds on,” adds to its infectious appeal.

“Oh Sherrie” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries and earning widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a favorite on radio stations and music playlists, solidifying its status as one of Perry’s most beloved solo hits.

Over the years, “Oh Sherrie” has remained a classic rock staple, continuing to resonate with listeners and evoke nostalgia for the 1980s era. Its timeless appeal and enduring popularity have cemented its place as one of the standout tracks in Steve Perry’s impressive catalog of music.

5. Foolish Heart

“Foolish Heart” is a song by Steve Perry, the former lead vocalist of the American rock band Journey. Released in 1984 as the third single from his debut solo album “Street Talk,” “Foolish Heart” showcases Perry’s emotive vocals and heartfelt songwriting.

With its poignant lyrics and soulful melody, “Foolish Heart” explores themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. Perry’s powerful vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and emotion, drawing listeners into the depths of the song’s heartfelt sentiment.

Musically, “Foolish Heart” is characterized by its lush instrumentation, including piano, strings, and electric guitar. The song’s dynamic arrangement builds to a powerful climax, capturing the intensity of Perry’s emotions and the universal experience of love and loss.

“Foolish Heart” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving critical acclaim for Perry’s vocal performance and songwriting. It remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Perry’s solo discography, showcasing his talent as a singer and songwriter.

6. She’s Mine

“She’s Mine” is a song by American singer-songwriter Steve Perry, released as a single in 1984 from his debut solo album “Street Talk.” It’s celebrated for its soulful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Perry’s powerful vocal delivery.

Written by Perry himself, “She’s Mine” is a romantic ballad that captures the exhilaration and intensity of falling in love. The song’s lyrics express Perry’s feelings of devotion and adoration for the woman he loves, portraying her as someone he cherishes deeply and feels fortunate to have in his life. The verses paint a vivid picture of the passion and affection he feels, while the chorus serves as a declaration of his commitment and determination to keep her by his side.

Musically, “She’s Mine” features a lush arrangement, with layers of keyboards, guitars, and synthesizers creating a rich sonic landscape. Perry’s soulful vocals soar over the instrumentation, conveying the depth of emotion and vulnerability expressed in the lyrics. The song’s melodic hooks and infectious groove contribute to its timeless appeal, making it a standout track on “Street Talk” and a fan favorite among Perry’s solo repertoire.

“She’s Mine” received positive reviews from critics and achieved moderate success on the charts, further solidifying Steve Perry’s reputation as a formidable solo artist. Its romantic themes and heartfelt sentiment continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved classic in Perry’s catalog.

7. Strung Out

“Strung Out” is a song by Steve Perry, the former lead vocalist of the American rock band Journey. Released in 1984 as part of his debut solo album “Street Talk,” “Strung Out” is a rock ballad that showcases Perry’s powerful vocals and emotive songwriting.

With its introspective lyrics and melodic guitar riffs, “Strung Out” explores themes of addiction, longing, and redemption. Perry’s emotive vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and pain, capturing the struggles of someone grappling with inner demons.

Musically, “Strung Out” features a driving rhythm section, layered guitars, and atmospheric keyboards, creating a sense of tension and urgency that mirrors the song’s lyrical themes. The song’s dynamic arrangement builds to a powerful crescendo, highlighting Perry’s vocal range and emotional depth.

“Strung Out” received critical acclaim for its raw honesty and musical craftsmanship, cementing Perry’s reputation as a formidable solo artist. It remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Perry’s solo discography, showcasing his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.

8. You Should Be Happy

“You Should Be Happy” is a song by American singer-songwriter Steve Perry, released as a track on his solo album “Traces” in 2018. It’s noted for its poignant lyrics, emotive melody, and Perry’s soulful vocal performance.

As the title suggests, “You Should Be Happy” explores themes of longing, regret, and the desire for happiness. The song’s lyrics address a past lover, expressing Perry’s wish for their well-being and fulfillment, even in the wake of their separation. Perry reflects on the ups and downs of their relationship, acknowledging mistakes and missed opportunities, but ultimately expressing a sense of acceptance and forgiveness.

Musically, “You Should Be Happy” features a stripped-down arrangement, with acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle orchestration providing a soft backdrop for Perry’s heartfelt vocals. The song’s melody is melodic and contemplative, with Perry’s emotive delivery adding depth and emotion to the lyrics. The understated instrumentation allows the focus to remain on Perry’s voice and the intimacy of the song’s message.

“You Should Be Happy” received praise from critics and fans alike for its raw emotion and sincerity. It showcases Perry’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level through his music, reaffirming his status as one of rock’s most iconic vocalists. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love and loss, offering a message of hope and healing in the face of heartache.

9. Running Alone

“Running Alone” is a song by Steve Perry, the former lead vocalist of the American rock band Journey. It was released as part of his second solo album “For the Love of Strange Medicine” in 1994.

In “Running Alone,” Perry explores themes of isolation, self-discovery, and the journey towards finding oneself. The lyrics depict a protagonist who feels lost and disconnected, searching for meaning and purpose in their life. Perry’s emotive vocals convey a sense of longing and introspection, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song.

Musically, “Running Alone” features a melodic guitar-driven arrangement, complemented by Perry’s soulful vocals and layered harmonies. The song’s dynamic shifts and atmospheric production create a sense of depth and intensity, reflecting the emotional journey of the protagonist.

“Running Alone” showcases Perry’s talent as both a vocalist and a songwriter, with its poignant lyrics and captivating melody leaving a lasting impression on listeners. It remains a standout track in Perry’s solo repertoire, resonating with fans who appreciate its heartfelt sincerity and emotional resonance.

10. Against the Wall

“Against the Wall” is a song by Steve Perry, an American singer-songwriter renowned for his work as the lead vocalist of the band Journey and his successful solo career. Though it was initially released as part of his album “Traces” in 2018, it wasn’t included in the original release, but later featured in the deluxe edition.

The song “Against the Wall” is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody. Perry’s signature vocals shine as he delivers a passionate performance, conveying the emotional depth of the song’s themes. Lyrically, the song explores the complexities of love and relationships, delving into the challenges and obstacles that arise when facing adversity. The phrase “against the wall” suggests a sense of being trapped or constrained, perhaps by circumstances or personal struggles, yet Perry’s vocals infuse the song with a sense of resilience and determination.

Musically, “Against the Wall” features a rich arrangement, with lush instrumentation that includes acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. The melody builds gradually, creating a sense of anticipation and intensity that crescendos with Perry’s soaring vocals in the chorus. The song’s dynamic arrangement and powerful vocals combine to create a captivating listening experience that resonates with audiences.

Overall, “Against the Wall” showcases Steve Perry’s songwriting prowess and vocal talent, reaffirming his status as one of rock music’s most iconic voices. With its emotive lyrics and soul-stirring melody, the song leaves a lasting impression, inviting listeners to connect with its heartfelt message of perseverance and hope.

Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.

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Journey Frontman Arnel Pineda on the Band’s New Record, Dreams of a Steve Perry Reunion

By Andy Greene

Andy Greene

In early 2020, Journey frontman Arnel Pineda flew back to his native Manila after playing a corporate gig in Texas. He was gearing up for a big year in which Journey would cut their first new record since 2011’s Eclipse and play amphitheaters all over North America with the Pretenders.

The pandemic changed all that and he’s been in Manila ever since, but Journey still found a way to work remotely on the record. It’s their first full-length since parting ways with drummer Steve Smith and bassist Ross Valory. They were replaced by bassist Randy Jackson (who briefly toured and recorded with Journey in 1986–87) and drummer Narada Michael Walden, who’s doubling as the album’s producer.

We checked in with Pineda via Zoom to talk about his lockdown life in Manila, the in-progress Journey record, the upcoming biopic about his life, and why he still dreams about a Journey reunion with Steve Perry.

How are things going? Good. I arrived here in Manila last year just a week and a half before the lockdown began. I was lucky. Otherwise, I would have been stuck in America for six months before they let me back.

This must be the longest stretch of time you’ve been home since you joined Journey in 2007. Yeah. This is the longest. I like it because I got to spend a lot of time with family and the kids and more time with myself and my wife. There are other things I would rather do than tour, so I got the chance to be here. In a negative way, it’s quite bad. The survival here is a day-to-day deal. I’m the one that goes out a lot. I’m the one that goes to the market and the grocery to refill our food stocks.

You wonder if you have the virus every day. There’s a lot of paranoia going around. It’s like what is happening in America.

Do you miss playing live? Yeah. I especially miss the energy and the adrenaline of doing it. I’m delivering on the legacy that the Voice [Steve Perry] has left behind. Especially now that he formally passed the torch to me in 2017 [at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction], he made that known and he was very gracious. It was very kind of him. It was so generous of him to say that in public. It was really an honor.

What was it like to finally meet Steve after all these years? I posted on Instagram that I had waited 35 years for that. It was dreamy. I couldn’t believe I met him since he’s very reclusive and he avoids people. He didn’t want to get interviewed, at least until he released his new record [ Traces ] and then suddenly he was out there, going to radio stations and accepting interviews.

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I was really surprised that he agreed to meet me. It’s one of the most special things that happened in my life. He’s one of my heroes when it comes to singing. I remember back in the Eighties, I would sleep on the bus with my Walkman on in my ears as his voice sang all these favorite songs from Journey.

I really dug his new record. It was amazing. I’ve been teasing Jonathan [Cain] and Neal [Schon]. “Why don’t you invite Steve Perry over for a tour?” Oh, my God. I never saw them back in the Eighties. I was just a young kid in Manila, just playing around, with no chance of going to the States and seeing their show, but they were one of my favorite bands.

I’ve spoken to Steve a bunch of times in the past few years. We even talked just a few weeks ago. Oh, my God!

Judging by our talks, I’m extremely confident that he’s happy to leave the Journey baton with you. That’s even more pressure I’m getting, hearing this from you. At the same time, I’m truly honored. But I’m not losing [the hope] that one day he’ll join the band for two or three songs. It would be one of the highlights of my life if that happens.

It would almost be on the scale of Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd re-forming at this point. My God. It would be the same thing for me with Led Zeppelin because I haven’t seen them either, or Pink Floyd. I wish they would be complete again. It’s like completing a circle, being back up onstage again.

Do you think this long break has been good for your singing voice? Has it given you time to rest the muscle? I think so. At the same time, I can’t help but sing four or five songs here every day. The problem with the voice is that it changes as you grow older. It’s like athletes. They reach their peak on their 30th birthday. As they approach 31 or 32, it starts to change. It’s the same with my voice. I just want to make sure I can be of use to the band until they decide to throw the towel in.

Those are hard songs to sing for any singer. You guys go out and do 60 straight concerts in the summer and you need to hit the high notes on “Faithfully” every single time. That would be hard for anyone at any age. We’ll do five or six shows a week. I’m just quite amazed with myself a little. Somehow I was able to take it for 13 years. Let’s see what’s going to happen in the coming days. We’re on to finishing the album. We finished six songs so far. There’s talk of going out somewhere first, maybe Las Vegas for a residency. We don’t know yet. We haven’t decided. Just to break the ice between the new members and us.

You have six songs totally done? Yeah. And maybe seven songs to go.

Journey's Bassist Ross Valory Opens Up About the Band's Saga — And His Adventurous Solo Album

Watch miley cyrus cover journey's hit '80s anthem 'faithfully'.

Are these ballads? Rockers? For now, we’re doing the rocker songs first, not the ballads. I think the seven songs they’re working on, they’re working on something huge, like how you’ve known Journey doing ballads. It’s between [1981’s ] “Mother, Father” and [1978’s] “Winds of March.” We’re working on that song. We’ll see what happens. I’m waiting for them to send me the demos so that we can record it next week.

Working remotely like this must have been an adjustment. Normally, you’d be in the room together. I know. It’s quite hard right now. I have a few melody ideas that I’m into and want to share with them, but you can’t right now because of what is happening. I just have to listen to it and learn it. We use Zoom to record and I turn on my laptop and go into Logic Pro. They get ahold of it. If there’s something I want to change, I tell them. But it’s all pretty much done and I just record with them.

Are you doing the vocals on your laptop? Yeah. I’ll show you [ turns camera around and shows a microphone plugged into a computer in front of soundproofing foam ]. I share my computer, like mirroring. They can see what’s happening in my laptop. It allows them to hack it for a moment and then they can hear it. It happens in real time.

There’s no lag. I can hear that right now while we talk. It’s like you’re in the next room and you’re actually more than 8,000 miles away. Yeah. Thank God for the technology.

Do you think the album will come out this year? I think so. Neal thinks so. He can’t wait to release it before we do a full-on tour.

How do things sound different now that Randy Jackson and Narada Michael Walden are in the band? It’s somewhat like the sound back in the Eighties when Randy Jackson joined the band for the Raised on Radio album. It’s kind of like that, but it’s also more updated. Narada is producing my vocals and mentoring me on how to do it. He’s telling me to sing it this way and that way. It’s amazing. I’m learning a lot from Narada. It’s truly an honor and I appreciate him for doing so. It’s amazing.

Has the band even been in the same room yet? Have you met Randy and Narada in person? Right now, it’s just been virtual. It’s tough. I wanted to do it. I keep telling Neal, “If only I had been there, we would have done this in two months. Sorry it’s taking so long.” But with all these health protocols where you need to quarantine for two weeks, and then I come back and I’d be quarantined for another two weeks before I can join my family. It’s too much of a hassle, so we decided to do it this way even though Neal isn’t too happy about it. He wants it the old, classic way of making an album.

Moving on here, what’s the status of the movie about your life? It’s going to happen. I think they’re gonna start. Some people from Warner will start coming here. I think maybe with [ Crazy Rich Asians director] Jon Chu and [ Joker and The Fighter screenwriter] Scott Silver. They might come here to audition actors and actresses that will take part in my biopic.

Are you going to take them around town and show them the places you grew up? Yes. That’s the deal, of course. I want to show them where I grew up, where I was born, where everything happened before this whole magical thing.

Do you think the story will start in your childhood and show all your early bands and struggles and focus on the pre-Journey period? I think so, yeah. That’s the plan. I’ve spoken many times with Scott Silver. What’s interesting about my story is that I’ve survived two coup attempts here in the Philippines before I went to Hong Kong for 10 years. I don’t know he if plans to tell what happened to me in Hong Kong, but I had 10 years there. He might focus on my love story with my wife now.

I can see the grand finale in my head. It’ll be you walking onstage in Chile at your first Journey show. You’re nervous and they push you out and you burst into “Separate Ways.” Yeah. I was trying to back out five minutes before. I was like, “Neal, I cannot do this. This is not built for me.” They were like, “No. It’s too late. Get out there and do it.”

It was the turning point of your life. Everything is either before that moment or after that moment. You should tell Scott Silver about this idea. I’ve been implying it to him that we should end everything in Chile. And I remember when my wife decided to join me on tour in 2011. We were playing to a 30,000 crowd that night. I was telling my wife, “Remember Hard Rock Cafe when there were only three tables? Now it’s 30,000 people.” It was just unbelievable. It doesn’t get old to me. It’s still so surreal and bizarre.

I saw you at Citi Field with Fleetwood Mac and Madison Square Garden with Def Leppard. I could tell you were still having a blast. It’s still unbelievable. I’m just so blessed. I can’t thank them enough, especially Neal Schon. He was the one that was really sold that I am the one since 2007. But then again, I still think, “If only they could bring back Steve Perry.” You know what I mean?

I do, but if he came back, that would mean … I know, but I miss them so much together. Every now and then, I watch their videos together. It’s always them with Steve Perry that I watch. I mean, no offense to Adam Lambert. He’s an amazing performer and he has an amazing voice, but I still watch the old [Queen] ones with Freddie Mercury. That’s why when people say things like “No Perry, No Journey,” I understand it. Where I come from, we’re so influenced by Western music. We loved the originals, if you know what I mean.

His return would put you out of a job. That would be OK to me! I’m telling you. That’s how much I adore him and I adore Journey and how much I adore Steve Perry. Back in 2005, I resigned from my job in Hong Kong because I lost my voice due to acid reflux. I was telling my friends back then that my only regret was I lost my voice before I had the chance to sing side-by-side with Steve Perry. I was joking with them, but then a different situation happened. I just wish that one show with him … it would change my life forever. It’s been 30 years now and the band keeps changing my life in ways nobody would ever guess would happen.

Do you miss Ross Valory and Steve Smith now that they’re out of the band? I do, of course. We had a real bond that nobody can deny. [ Sighs ] When the first day came that Steve Smith went back, I could feel that he was trying to feel everything out and observe. When he got the good vibe again, we clicked. Four years with him was very special. And 11 years with Ross was amazing. I cannot ask for anything more. Those friendships I’ll take with me until the end of time.

The group has dealt with a lot of tensions and feuds during your time with them, but you always remain neutral and out of the fray. How do you do that? I try to stay away. It’s like, “Oh, the big boys are fighting.” I’d rather stick to my guns, which is just singing and delivering the legacy with them onstage. When we’re up onstage, I think everyone forgets their differences behind the scenes. That’s my happy place. When they’re having some petty quarrels, I try to stay away. I talk to everybody without having to talk about their differences.

Your White House visit caused a bit of controversy. Do you have any regrets about going there and meeting Trump? I do not. As a Filipino, I am such a big fan of the White House. It’s not about Trump. It’s not about who the president is. It’s the whole history of the White House. I was just amazed. When I went there, I looked at all the pictures of past presidents and how old everything was. And then the table where President Trump was seated was about 100 years old. Who wouldn’t want to see that? Who wouldn’t want to touch that?

His presidential guard was laughing at me because President Trump was talking to the other members [of the band] and I was just mesmerized by the table. I was like, “Wow! This is truly 100 years old?” I’m just a kid from Manila and I was in the White House for the first time, so no regrets. I guess I didn’t even have a chance to apologize to Neal. He must understand. I’m just a kid from Manila that wants to see the White House, in general.

What’s the status of your next solo record? I’m doing it right now. I’m just waiting on a couple of friends that are helping me finish it from the States. Because of the recent banning of some countries from coming in here, we got delayed. I’m expecting them to arrive here at the end of March instead of the end of January. Even my online streaming concert was moved to April 18th. It was supposed to happen in February. To those who want to get a ticket, it’ll be at sanrestreaming.com .

Back to the movie, do you think being on set and watching someone play a younger version of you will be a surreal experience? It will be weird, but it’ll be weirder if I am there portraying myself! [ Laughs ] I will not be able to stand there and look at myself. I don’t really listen to myself singing either. When the documentary Everyman’s Journey came out, I could barely watch it. The premier was in Tribeca. I was like, “Do I really have to watch this and see myself on the big screen?” I was cringing.

Do you think the actor in the movie will actually sing, or will you provide the vocals? I think I’m going to use my voice. Do you remember the Queen movie [ Bohemian Rhapsody ]? Marc Martel did the voice. I think I’m going to do that too.

I can’t wait. Crazy Rich Asians is a great movie. Jon Chu really knows what he’s doing. It’s unbelievable that he took notice of my life and my story and wants to make a movie out of it. It really humbled me.

They should film it in Manila and not somewhere else. It should look authentic. They definitely will. There’s so much to remember, I’m telling you. At one point in my life, I was really on drugs. It quite affected my memory. I need to recover all those things that happened to me when I was young. But I’ve recovered a lot of my childhood memories. Scott Silver is quite happy with what I was able to tell him.

I’m very hopeful that before 2021 ends, you’ll be back onstage with Journey. Me too. I can’t wait to see those smiling faces and that rolling-thunder sound of the audience. It’s quite an adrenaline [rush] when you experience that every night. That’s what keeps you going.

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Arnel Pineda on JOURNEY’s Potential Reunion with Steve Perry and Career Impact

via GIGS / YouTube

In a chat with Rolling Stone, Arnel Pineda, the frontman of the iconic band Journey, shared his thoughts on the possibility of reuniting with the former lead singer, Steve Perry. Pineda, known for his upbeat personality and powerful vocals, revealed his openness to the idea, sparking excitement among fans.

Dreamy Encounter with an Icon: Arnel Meets Steve Perry

Expressing his amazement at the unexpected encounter with Perry, Pineda shared,

“I posted on Instagram that I had waited 35 years for that. It was dreamy. I couldn’t believe I met him since he’s very reclusive and he avoids people.”

Pineda reflected on the profound influence Perry had on him, stating,

“He’s one of my heroes when it comes to singing. I remember back in the ’80s, I would sleep on the bus with my Walkman on in my ears as his voice sang all these favorite songs from Journey.”

  View this post on Instagram Modafinil 5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;”>   A post shared by Journey (@journeyofficial)

A Career Sacrifice for the Love of Perry and Journey

When asked about the possibility of Perry’s return and the impact on his role in the band, Pineda responded,

“I miss them so much together. Every now and then, I watch their videos together. It’s always them with Steve Perry that I watch.”

Acknowledging the sentiment of fans who proclaim, “No Perry, No Journey,” Pineda sympathized,

“I understand it. Where I come from, we’re so influenced by Western music. We loved the originals, if you know what I mean.”

Addressing the potential impact on his career, Pineda shared a surprising perspective,

“That would be OK to me! I’m telling you. That’s how much I adore him and I adore Journey and how much I adore Steve Perry.”

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Retro and Nostalgia Creator (@70sandbeyond)

Anticipation for the Future: Pineda’s Genuine Enthusiasm

Recounting a personal anecdote, Pineda revealed,

“Back in 2005, I resigned from my job in Hong Kong because I lost my voice due to acid reflux. I was telling my friends back then that my only regret was I lost my voice before I had the chance to sing side-by-side with Steve Perry.”

He continued,

“I just wish that one show with him… it would change my life forever. It’s been 30 years now, and the band keeps changing my life in ways nobody would ever guess would happen.”

Arnel Pineda’s genuine admiration for Steve Perry and his eagerness for a potential reunion add a layer of anticipation to Journey’s future. As fans speculate on what could be, Pineda’s words reflect the profound impact that music and collaboration can have on an artist’s journey, transcending the boundaries of time.

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When and why did Steve Perry leave Journey?

Journey helped set the soundtrack for the 1970s and 1980s, with hits that are still remembered as some of the best songs ever written. However, the band couldn’t count on lead singer Steve Perry for most of their existence.

Journey was formed in 1973, a union of several experienced musicians trying to create a new sound experience. As the jazz fusion project didn’t work as well as Journey had hoped, the band was forced to experiment with new genres and invite new members. The version of Journey we all know and love began in 1977 when Perry joined as the band’s lead singer and songwriter. As the frontman, he made history, using his vocal talents to turn hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms” into the anthems of a generation.

Though Journey’s explosive success established them as one of the biggest musical influences of the 1980s, Perry left the band in 1987. It would be the first time, but not the last, that Perry and Journey went in different directions.

Why did Steve Perry leave Journey in 1987?

In 1987, Journey was at the peak of its success. Since Perry joined the band, they released hit after hit, attracting millions of fans to their live performances worldwide. However, to fans’ despair, Perry left Journey to pursue a solo career. 

The lead singer position gave Perry the attention he needed to ensure he would succeed in his solo career. Furthermore, since Perry had creative differences with Journey, he could focus his creative energy by flying solo without making concessions or negotiating with other band members. In addition, things were somewhat tense within the band before Perry’s departure, with the lead singer firing founding bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith during the recording of 1986’s Raised on Radio — the two would return to the band in 1995. Hence, his departure wasn’t entirely shocking. Still, Perry’s absence impacted Journey.

Journey would remain popular without Perry, but they never repeated the success of their 1980s run. Likewise, Perry is mainly remembered for the songs he wrote or co-wrote for the band, not for his solo career. Unsurprisingly, though, he would rejoin the group in 1995, a new partnership that lasted only three years.

Why Steve Perry and Journey parted ways in 1998?

With Perry back in the folder, Journey launched a new studio album in 1996, Trial by Fire . The album got three charting singles and a Grammy nomination , with fans eager to see the band hitting the road again for a new world tour. The tour plans derailed after Perry’s ski accident in the same year. He needed hip surgery to get back on stage in time for the tour, which he refused to get. His Journey companions waited for him until 1998, post which they decided the band’s future was more important than the selfish decisions of a single person.

The same year Journey hired voice-lookalike Steve Augeri, forging a successful partnership until 2006. In 2007, singer Arnel Pineda became the band’s lead singer, a role that is still his. As for Perry, he showed up on a few special presentations with the team but has primarily remained in the shadows. His story is a bitter reminder that a band is bigger than its frontman, no matter how important they think they are.

Source disclaimer : The article above is partly based on the book The Untold Story of Journey by Neil Daniels.

• classic rock
• Steve Perry

4 Songs You Didn’t Know Former Journey Singer Steve Perry Wrote for Other Artists in the ’80s

by Tina Benitez-Eves January 29, 2024, 1:06 pm

As the vocalist of Journey from 1977 through 1987, Steve Perry led the band with his powerhouse vocals and co-wrote a collection of their biggest hits, including “ Don’t Stop Believin ’,” “Anyway You Want It,” and “Separate Ways” with more through his solo career from his 1984 debut, Street Talk, and hits “Oh Sherrie,” and “Foolish Heart.”  Throughout Perry’s career outside of Journey, he has collaborated with dozens of artists, everyone from Sammy Hagar —singing background vocals on “The Iceman,” “Heartbeat,” “Run for Your Life,” and “Love or Money,” from Hagar’s 1980 solo album Danger Zone . In 1988, Perry also appeared on Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young ‘s American Dream track “Soldiers of Peace,” and in 2023 Perry joined Dolly Parton for a duet of Journey’s 1981 hit “ Open Arms ” on her Rockstar album. Perry released his tenth solo album For the Love of Strange Medicine in 1994 before taking a nearly quarter-century break from music. He returned in 2018 with his third solo album Traces , and the holiday album, The Season , in 2021.

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“When I left the music business, I was gone for about 25 years, and I had no intentions of coming back,” Perry shared with American Songwriter in 2021. “In my heart, I truly had done everything that living the dream could have possibly been, and I really believe that’s true. We [Journey] were so successful, and we really had such a blast and we had such great songs in the band. And I had some solo stuff that was great. It’s good. I’m good. So I left.” Perry continued, “Then over 20 years go by and all of a sudden the creative juices just started to come back.”

[RELATED: The Writer’s Block — Steve Perry Talks Songwriting with American Songwriter]

Though Perry’s collaborations as a songwriter stretch across four decades, here are five songs Perry wrote for other artists throughout the 1980s.

1. “Don’t Fight It,” Kenny Loggins, Featuring Steve Perry (1982)

Written by Steve Perry, Kenny Loggins, and Dean Pitchford

Appearing on Kenny Loggins ‘ fourth album, High Adventure , “Don’t Fight It” also features Perry on vocals and Pat Benatar ‘s husband guitarist Neil Giraldo on guitar. “Don’t Fight It” went to No. 4 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and peaked at No. 17 on the Hot 100. In 1983, Loggin’s song also picked up a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

Live long enough you’re bound to find Moonshine’ll make a man go blind Never can tell what the brew will do But there’s times you’ll wind up feelin so fine Some women seem to have a knack They’ll turn you on and leave you flat Never can tell who’s playin for keeps So tell me now what’s holding you back I know your heart can take it Don’t fight it Don’t fight it Don’t fight it It’ll do your heart so good

2. “Self Defense” Schon & Hammer (1982)

Written by Steve Perry, Neal Schon , and Jonathan Cain

On Here to Stay , the second collaborative album from his then-bandmate Neal Schon and composer Jan Hammer, Perry’s vocals can be heard behind the track “Self Defense. The song marked the only time Perry and Schon collaborated outside of Journey.  In 2005, Journey rerecorded the song for their album Generations with the title “In Self Defense” and Schon on vocals.

The situation’s got me rattled I twist and turn late at night This whole world is up in shambles Who is the one to make it right Missing persons lost in action (action) Forgotten victims of the night (victims of the night) They are making crime the main attraction (attraction) They are making everyone uptight They are all looking for a fight In this confusion from day to day Sometimes fear just makes no sense In this crossfire I see one way In self defense

3. “Only the Young,” Scandal with Patty Smyth (1984)

Written by Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon

Though Journey was the first to record “Only the Young” in 1984, the band shared the track with Scandal with Patty Smyth, who released it first on their breakthrough debut album The Warrior . Initially, Journey had written “Only the Young” for their 1983 album  Frontiers but the band later recorded the song for the soundtrack of the 1985 film Vision Quest, starring Matthew Modine and Linda Fiorentino. Their version hit the top 10 at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Another night in any town You can hear the thunder of their cry Ahead of their time They wonder why In the shadows of a golden age A generation waits for dawn Brave carry on Bold and the strong Only the young can say They’re free to fly away Sharing the same desires Burnin like wildfire

4. “(Can’t Fall Asleep to A) Lullaby,” America (1984)

Written by Steve Perry, Dewey Bunnell, Bill Mumy, and Robert Haimer

Perry appears on America’s “Can’t Fall Asleep to a Lullaby,” which he co-wrote for the band’s 12th album Perspective . America’s Dewey Bunnell later appeared in the music video for Perry’s 1984 solo hit “Oh Sherrie.”

It’s late at night, I’m all alone I call you up, hear your voice on the phone Say that you’re mine, tell me it’s true Say that my love, is still right for you ‘Cause I can’t fall asleep to a lullaby And I miss you so much I don’t wanna cry, you are why I love you, oo-oo-oo, you don’t know Here I am, part of the crowd Need you so bad, I’m dreamin’ out loud Say that you’re mine, tell me it’s true Say that my love, is still right for you

Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/WireImage for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

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The Incredible Isolated Vocals of Steve Perry in the Journey Song ‘Don’t Stop Believin’

• February 21, 2022

NetMusic stripped down the Journey song “Don’t Stop Believin'” to capture the incredible isolated vocals of Steve Perry and a few tasty guitar licks by guitarist Neil Schon . The tracks, which were recorded in the studio, were matched up to a live 1983 performance in Tokyo.

This is a ‘vocals only’ version of highlights the voice of Steve Perry. This is the original studio recording (vocal and guitar solo) matched to live footage

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Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry , playing guitar , taking photos and mixing craft cocktails .

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50 Years Of Journey: How Former Lead Singer Steve Perry, 74, Fought Dangerous Skin Cancer After Losing Love of His Life to Breast Cancer SHARE

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50 Years Of Journey: How Former Lead Singer Steve Perry, 74, Fought Dangerous Skin Cancer After Losing Love of His Life to Breast Cancer

• Save This Video

Losing a Loved One to Cancer

• The American rock band journey recently celebrated 50 years since its formation.
• The band’s former frontman, Steve Perry, is a survivor of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
• Melanoma is a kind of skin cancer that can develop from an existing mole or appear as a dark or pink growth on the skin even in places on the body that never see the sun.
• Perry fought the disease after losing the love of his life to breast cancer in 2012.
• Though he was only with Kellie Nash for a year and a half, he’s said “it was a lifetime of love packed into every moment.”

Journey is a classic American rock group that first formed in 1973. Current members of the band include Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, and Arnel Pineda, according to the group’s website , but Perry was the lead singer during their height of commercial success in the late ’70s and ’80s.

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Steve Perry’s Cancer Battle

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Steve Perry (@steveperrymusic)

“Three weeks ago a routine mole was taken off my face and the lab report came back Melanoma skin cancer,” he wrote.

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and it originates in the same cells that give your skin, hair and eyes their color. It can develop from an existing mole or appear as a dark or pink growth on the skin even in places on the body that never or rarely see the sun. This disease accounts for about 1% of all skin cancers , but it can be very dangerous if left untreated.

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"Melanomas are the deadliest type of skin cancer because they have a tendency to spread to other parts of the body," Dr. Anna Pavlick , medical oncologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, previously told SurvivorNet.

It’s unclear exactly what stage of melanoma Perry had, but treating stage 1 melanoma usually consists of a simple, in-office surgical removal by a dermatologist. When the cancer has spread beyond .08 mm in thickness , patients need an operation that is more involved.

“I’ve had two surgeries in two weeks to remove all the cancer cells and I’ve been told they think they got it all and no other treatments are required,” Perry wrote.

Although his cancer news was positive overall, Steve Perry’s 2013 post also included a heart-wrenching story about his late partner and her cancer battle.

When Perry first saw Kellie Nash, it was love at first sight. He was sitting in an editing room with a friend, Patty Jenkins, as she worked on a Lifetime breast cancer special when Perry noticed the Ph.D. psychologist in the opening scene.

The Toughest Conversations: Losing a Partner to Cancer

“When the scene was over I said to Patty, ‘Can you roll to the top of that opening scene for me?’ Patty asked, ‘Is something wrong?’ I said, ‘No. I want to see something,'” Perry wrote.

“As the camera again crossed Kellie’s smile I asked her to freeze right there.……. I asked Patty who that was. She said, ‘That’s Kellie Nash, a PHD Psychologist who was diagnosed with breast cancer, had a double mastectomy and she’s doing a cameo appearance.'”

That’s when Perry asked Jenkins to send Nash an email asking if she’d like to go on a date. Jenkins agreed but told Perry about the reality of Nash’s situation: She was currently fighting breast cancer that had returned as stage 4 and spread to her lungs and bones after eight months of remission.

“I was frozen……. I didn’t know what to do…….. I had lost my mom, dad, grandparents that raised me and I was an only child so my first thought was to maybe not send the email; then my heart said, Maybe we could be friends or maybe she could be my shrink,” he explained. “So I said, ‘Please send it.'”

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Nash happily obliged and gave Perry a call. In a couple weeks, they were on their first date, and the rest was history.

“I never felt like this before……. I had finally found her. She’s real and she’s right in front of me,” Perry wrote. “We started seeing each other and Yes, we both knew that we were meant to be together.

“My life was forever changed in ways I will explain at another time but it was all because of my Kellie.”

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Nash went courageously in and out of treatments, but she eventually passed away from the disease on Dec. 14, 2012. Although the two were together for just 1.5 years, Perry said “it was a lifetime of love packed into every moment.”

“She was so strong, so courageous and we really loved each other so very much,” he wrote. “I’ve been trying to grieve and not run from this loss so for the last 5 months that’s what I’ve been doing along with recalling everything being in Love with Kellie taught me.”

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