suzanne journey meaning

Journey's Suzanne: A Tale of Love and Longing

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The lyrics of "Suzanne" by Journey convey a sense of nostalgia, longing, and a deep emotional connection between the narrator and a woman named Suzanne. The song primarily explores themes of lost love and the yearning for a past relationship.

The opening lines, "I see your face at the movies, I hear your voice on the radio," suggest that Suzanne has become a part of the narrator's everyday life, even though they are no longer together. This imagery underscores the idea that memories of Suzanne continue to linger in the narrator's mind.

The recurring phrases, "Suzanne, don't walk away" and "Remember Suzanne, those summer nights with me," emphasize the narrator's plea for Suzanne to stay and their desire to hold onto the memories of their past together. It's as if the narrator is trying to rekindle the connection they once had.

The mention of "Temptation, infatuation" highlights the intensity of the emotions involved, suggesting that the attraction between the narrator and Suzanne was powerful.

The line, "I wonder if you're really happy, and if you saw me, would you know my name," reveals the narrator's uncertainty about Suzanne's current feelings and whether she still remembers their time together. This uncertainty adds to the bittersweet nature of the song.

The reference to "our last September" alludes to a specific moment or period in their relationship that holds significance for the narrator. It implies that their love may have ended, but the memories of that time are deeply cherished.

Overall, "Suzanne" by Journey is a song that explores the themes of lost love, longing, and the enduring impact of past relationships on our lives. The lyrics capture the narrator's emotional journey as they reflect on their connection with Suzanne and the desire to rekindle what was once lost.

I see your face at the movies

The singer is reminded of the person named Suzanne when they see her face on a movie screen. This suggests that Suzanne may be a famous or well-known figure in the public eye.

I hear your voice on the radio

The singer hears Suzanne's voice on the radio, further reinforcing her presence in their life, even though she is physically distant.

You're makin ' love on the silver screen

Suzanne is depicted as being intimate with someone on the silver screen, possibly in a romantic or sexual context. This adds to the singer's yearning for her.

I want you more, I know

The singer expresses a strong desire for Suzanne, indicating that their feelings for her are intense and they want her in their life.

Temptation, infatuation

The words "Temptation, infatuation" signify that the singer is tempted and infatuated by Suzanne. They are grappling with powerful emotions.

Suzanne, don't walk away

The singer implores Suzanne not to walk away, showing their desperation to keep her in their life.

On no Suzanne, oh girl I'm callin' you

This line continues to express the singer's longing for Suzanne and their attempt to call out to her, seeking her attention and connection.

Suzanne, so far away

Suzanne is portrayed as being physically distant, as the singer acknowledges that she is "so far away," which deepens the sense of separation.

Remember Suzanne, those summer nights with me

The singer reminisces about past summer nights spent with Suzanne, indicating a strong emotional connection and a longing to relive those moments.

I wonder if you're really happy

The singer wonders if Suzanne is truly happy without them in her life and questions whether she would recognize them if they were to meet again. This reflects their concern for Suzanne's well-being and their own insecurities.

And if you saw me, would you know my name

The singer wonders if Suzanne would recognize them by name if they were to cross paths again, suggesting a desire for reconnection and recognition.

I'm the one you used to hold on to

The singer used to be close to Suzanne, as indicated by the reference to holding on to her. This further highlights the depth of their past relationship.

You're the one who used to wear my ring

Suzanne used to wear a ring given by the singer, suggesting that they were once romantically involved or even married. The ring symbolizes their past commitment.

Remember our last September

The mention of "our last September" evokes a specific time or memory shared by the singer and Suzanne, likely filled with sentimental value.

Oh Suzanne, don't walk away

The singer continues to implore Suzanne not to walk away, reinforcing their desire to keep her in their life.

This line echoes the singer's attempt to call out to Suzanne and expresses their emotional need for her presence.

Suzanne is still described as being physically distant, intensifying the sense of separation.

The singer reminisces again about the summer nights they spent with Suzanne, highlighting the importance of those memories in their life.

A repetition of the reference to "our last September," emphasizing the significance of this particular memory.

Suzanne is still described as being far away, underscoring the geographical and emotional distance between her and the singer.

Another reference to the summer nights spent with Suzanne, reinforcing their importance and the singer's longing to relive them.

Suzanne, don't walk away, I love you Suzanne

The singer once more pleads with Suzanne not to walk away and expresses their love for her.

I'm still callin' you

The singer continues to call out to Suzanne, demonstrating their persistence in seeking her presence in their life.

Suzanne, no, no, no, no, no, remember

This line reiterates the singer's desire for Suzanne to remember the summer nights they shared, emphasizing the nostalgia and emotional significance of those moments.

Those summer nights with me, those summer nights

A final reference to the summer nights, emphasizing their importance and the lasting impact they had on the singer's life.

Meaning of Suzanne by Journey

The song "Suzanne" by Journey revolves around themes of longing, nostalgia, and lost love. It portrays the emotions of a person reminiscing about a past relationship and the desire to reconnect with their former partner.

In the first verse, the lyrics describe seeing the person's face at the movies and hearing their voice on the radio, suggesting that the memory of this individual is still present in the artist's life. The line "You're making love on the silver screen" could be interpreted as a reference to seeing the person in romantic or intimate scenes in movies or TV shows. This not only reminds the artist of their connection, but also ignites a strong desire for them.

The chorus repeats the name "Suzanne" and emphasizes the artist's longing for her not to walk away. It suggests a desperate plea for her attention and affection. The evocation of "those summer nights" implies that the memories being recalled are from a time when the relationship was joyful and vibrant.

In the second verse, the artist wonders if Suzanne is truly happy without them and questions whether she would even recognize him. The line "I'm the one you used to hold on to, you're the one who used to wear my ring" reveals that they had a significant relationship in the past, likely symbolized by the ring. This line contributes to the overall nostalgic tone and highlights the loss the artist feels.

The repetition of the line "Remember...our last September" in the second and third verse intensifies the longing for the past and serves as a direct plea to Suzanne to remember the memories they shared. The repetition of her name throughout the song ensures that she remains a central figure, emphasizing the significance of their connection.

Symbolism and metaphors are not explicitly present in the lyrics of "Suzanne", but the song as a whole uses the memories of Suzanne and the emotions associated with her to convey a universal and relatable sentiment of yearning for lost love. It captures the bittersweet essence of nostalgia and the desire to hold onto precious moments from the past.

Overall, "Suzanne" by Journey conveys a strong sense of longing and nostalgia for a lost love. It explores the emotions of reminiscing about a past relationship and the yearning to reconnect with someone who once meant a great deal. It encapsulates the universal human experience of longing for the past and showcases the power of memories to shape our emotions and perceptions.

This meaning interpretation was written by AI. Help improve it with your feedback

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Lyrics submitted by Sweet_Summoner

Suzanne Lyrics as written by Jonathan Cain Stephen Ray Perry

Lyrics © Hipgnosis Songs Group

Lyrics powered by LyricFind

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This song never gets included with greatest hits CDs, but its very catchy.

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I like the song, it's catchy - but it's not quite right.

This (and the whole album in fact) are perfect example of the fact that while Steve Perry's tremendous voice molded Journey into the great band there were and still are, it takes more than just that! The heart of any rock band or blues band is the rhythm section - the bass and drums. On this album, they for some inexplicable reason fired Ross Valory and Steve Smith - and the underlying feeling that makes it Journey just isn't quite there. Larry Londin is certainly a capable studio drummer, but he isn't Journey's drummer. The same for Randy Jackson on bass.

Though Steve Smith remains my favorite, the latest albums featuring Deen Castronovo (and again Ross Valory) are a vast improvement improvement, and have much more of the real Journey feel to them.

This same feel (or lack thereof) is why I think the albums with Steve Augeri and now Arnel Pineda are more "Journey" than Raised On Radio was - yes the vocals aren't quite the same, but they're darn close and the groove is there.

Journey is Steve Perry. What exactly could make it more Journey than Steve Perry? Nothing! Today's version of Journey is watered down- they aren't as much of a sell out as some other groups, but they def aren't like what it was when it began (with Steve!!)

just my 2 cents

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Journey’s “Suzanne”: A Timeless Anthem That Still Resonates Today

Delving into the Heart of Journey’s Creative Genius

“discover journey’s hidden gem ‘suzanne,’ a brilliant showcase of their creative genius amidst personal struggles in the iconic ‘raised on radio’ era.”.

As a band with over four decades of musical contributions, Journey has certainly left their mark on rock history. Formed in 1973 in San Francisco, California, the band’s initial lineup consisted of Neal Schon, Gregg Rolie, George Tickner, Ross Valory, and Prairie Prince . Journey’s music style has evolved over the years, embodying progressive rock, jazz fusion, and even pop through their extraordinary albums . The band’s classic lineup, including lead vocalist Steve Perry, remains their most iconic formation.

Journey’s 1986 album, “Raised on Radio,” spotlights one of their lesser-known gems, “Suzanne.” The track showcases the band’s smooth blend of rock and pop, with Perry’s powerful and emotive vocals taking center stage. The song revolves around the theme of unrequited love, narrating a story of longing and desire for a woman who remains oblivious to the protagonist’s feelings.

Although “Suzanne” may not have achieved the same acclaim as Journey’s other masterpieces like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms,” it remains a testament to the band’s fantastic songwriting skills. Penned by Perry and keyboardist Jonathan Cain, the song is a brilliant composition that captures the essence of late 80s pop-rock.

As one explores the members’ contributions to the song, Neal Schon’s guitar work is undoubtedly worth mentioning. His riffs bring a catchy and melodic edge to “Suzanne,” making the song both radio-friendly and a treat for avid rock fans. Furthermore, the rhythm section, comprised of bassist Randy Jackson and drummer Larrie Londin, provides a solid foundation for the track, allowing Schon and Perry to shine.

However, the album “Raised on Radio” also marked a period of turmoil for Journey. With Perry taking a more dominant role in the band’s decision-making, rhythm guitarist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith were removed from the lineup. Although this did not affect the overall quality of the album, the absence of these two members slightly impacted Journey’s live performances during that era.

Throughout their illustrious career, Journey has sold over 75 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music groups of all time. They have also received various awards and accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005. Additionally, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, solidifying their legacy as true rock legends.

In conclusion, while “Suzanne” may not be Journey’s most recognized song, it offers a unique insight into the band’s creative genius during a pivotal time in their career. Despite facing challenges during the “Raised on Radio” era, Journey’s resilience and passion for crafting timeless music continue to captivate generations of music lovers.

Charting the Journey of a Classic

“suzanne” – journey’s melodic chart-climber, sealing their ’80s legacy with its timeless blend of rock and pop..

“Suzanne,” a powerful and melodic tune from Journey’s 1986 album “Raised on Radio,” made its impact on the music charts not long after its release. The song was released as the album’s third single on October 31, 1986, and rapidly climbed the charts, showcasing the band’s unique blend of rock and pop elements.

In terms of its chart performance, “Suzanne” entered the Billboard Hot 100 at a modest position of #67 on the week of November 8, 1986. The song continued to gain momentum and airplay, eventually reaching its peak position of #17 on the Hot 100 chart during the week of December 27, 1986. This marked the band’s 16th Top 40 hit and solidified their status as chart-toppers throughout the 1980s.

The song also fared well on other charts across the globe. For instance, in Canada, “Suzanne” managed to break into the Top 20 on the RPM chart, reaching a peak position of #14. This achievement highlighted Journey’s widespread appeal and the strong resonance of their music with fans in various countries.

“Suzanne” remained on the Hot 100 chart for a total of 15 weeks, showcasing its staying power and endearing quality. Although it may not have reached the heights of some of Journey’s more iconic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” or “Open Arms,” “Suzanne” still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans and serves as a testament to the band’s versatility and craftsmanship.

While “Suzanne” may not have shattered records or dominated charts, it remains an essential part of Journey’s discography and a beloved track for fans of the band. Its chart performance during the late 1980s serves as a reminder of the song’s timeless appeal and a snapshot of Journey’s continued success throughout the decade.

Decoding the Heartfelt Lyrics of “Suzanne”

Journey’s “Suzanne” is a beautiful love song that speaks to the heart, evoking feelings of longing, love, and the bittersweet nature of life. At its core, the song’s lyrics express the deep admiration and affection the protagonist feels for Suzanne, a girl who embodies everything he’s ever wanted. By describing her as a “miracle” and stating that she’s “all that a man could want and more”, the lyrics capture the intensity of the protagonist’s feelings, with the “one-thousand dreamers” line further emphasizing the rarity and preciousness of the connection shared.

Released in 1986, “Suzanne” reflected the spirit of the time, as it was an era of significant political and social changes. The world saw the rise of consumerism, the end of the Cold War, and a growing awareness of environmental issues. The song’s lyrics, while not directly addressing these events, capture the essence of the human experience – the search for love, connection, and the desire to find a sense of belonging in a fast-changing world.

The line “I rang and rang, but they said you’d moved away” speaks to the transient nature of life, as people move on and relationships evolve, echoing the uncertainty and shifting landscapes of the time. However, amidst these changes, the unwavering love the protagonist feels for Suzanne remains constant, a testament to the power of human emotion and connection.

Overall, the lyrics of “Suzanne” beautifully encapsulate the spirit of the time and the enduring theme of love. While the song may not directly touch on the events of the era, its message remains relevant and poignant today, reminding us of the universal experience of love and longing.

A Visual Journey: The Imagery of “Suzanne”

Dive into the visual odyssey of journey’s “suzanne” through diverse and passionate fan-made videos, showcasing the timeless impact of this classic song..

When it comes to the visual representation of Journey’s “Suzanne,” one must note that there isn’t an official music video created by the band themselves. However, that hasn’t stopped devoted fans from creating their own visual interpretations of the song. This creative phenomenon has allowed for a diverse range of fan-made music videos that encapsulate the essence of the song while providing a unique visual journey tailored to each individual’s perspective.

One particularly popular fan-made video uploaded by YouTube user “JourneyVEVOFan” showcases a montage of live performances of “Suzanne” from various concerts throughout the years. The well-edited video, which has garnered over 30,000 views, offers a nostalgic look into the band’s evolution and highlights the timeless quality of the song. It is a true testament to Journey’s impact on their fans, as well as their ever-growing influence on the music industry.

Another distinctive fan-made tribute video, assembled by YouTube user “JourneyFanatic92,” adopts an entirely different approach, utilizing animation to visually represent the song. The video utilizes a combination of hand-drawn and digital animation to create a fantastical world filled with vibrant colors and whimsical characters, inspired by the song’s lyrics. This particular tribute video has received over 15,000 views, and its unique artistic approach sets it apart from other fan-made content.

While these fan-made music videos for “Suzanne” do not have the big budgets, high-profile directors, or elaborate sets that are often associated with official music videos, they each showcase a genuine love and appreciation for Journey’s work. The creativity and passion displayed in these videos are a testament to the power of music and the ability of a song like “Suzanne” to inspire and connect with people across generations.

As a music blogger, it’s always fascinating to see how fans interpret and visually represent their favorite songs. Despite the lack of an official music video for “Suzanne,” the fan-made content available online provides a unique and diverse perspective on Journey’s classic song, proving its enduring impact on music lovers everywhere.

The Mastermind Behind “Suzanne”

Diving deeper into the creative force behind “Suzanne,” we find the immensely talented Jonathan Cain at the helm of composition. As Journey’s keyboardist and primary songwriter, Cain has been instrumental in crafting some of the band’s most iconic hits. One of his most prominent contributions is the universally-adored power ballad, “Faithfully,” which continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike. Prior to his time with Journey, Cain was also a member of The Babys, where he co-wrote the memorable track “Back on My Feet Again.” With his undeniable knack for penning timeless tunes, it’s no wonder that Cain’s incredible work on “Suzanne” shines through, leaving a lasting impact on the Journey’s discography.

Accolades, Appearances, and Cover Versions

Journey’s timeless classic “suzanne” transcends generations, leaving its mark on charts, pop culture, and inspiring unforgettable covers by artists like weezer..

“Suzanne” by Journey has left quite an impact on the music scene since its release in 1986. While it did not receive any major music awards, it was undoubtedly a fan favorite and held a special place in the hearts of Journey enthusiasts. It also managed to secure a spot on Billboard’s Hot 100, peaking at number 17, showcasing its popularity for several weeks.

Throughout the years, “Suzanne” has found itself featured in various media forms. Although it did not make prominent appearances in movies or TV shows, it has been used as background music in several episodes of different TV series, allowing the song to maintain its presence in pop culture. Additionally, the song was featured in the 2013 video game “Grand Theft Auto V,” as part of the in-game radio station Los Santos Rock Radio – a testament to the song’s legacy in the world of rock music.

As Journey’s “Suzanne” continued to spread its influence, various artists decided to pay homage to the classic track through cover versions. One of the most notable renditions was by alternative rock band Weezer, who included the song in their live performances during the 2000s. Their cover of “Suzanne” proved to be a hit with both Journey and Weezer fans alike, showcasing the timelessness of the song.

Moreover, several cover bands and tribute acts have added their own flair to “Suzanne,” resulting in a plethora of unique interpretations. Among them, the band Departure, known for their Journey tribute performances, breathed new life into the classic track with their version. The enduring popularity of “Suzanne” is a testament to Journey’s impact on the music scene and showcases the evergreen appeal of their songwriting and performance skills.

Dissecting the Melodic Layers

Diving into the song “Suzanne” from Journey’s 1986 album “Raised on Radio,” it’s clear that the band has not shied away from showcasing their musical prowess. The first thing that strikes you is the song’s key. Written in the key of E major, it provides a perfect platform for the band to exhibit their talent.

The song kicks off with a catchy intro riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The chords used in the intro are a combination of E, A, and B, which are the I, IV, and V chords of the E major scale, respectively. This chord progression is a classic example of a perfect cadence, which gives the song its strong sense of resolution.

As we delve further into the track, we notice that the verses follow a chord structure of E, A, and B as well, but with a slightly different arrangement. The pre-chorus then introduces a C#m chord, which is the vi chord in the key of E major. This chord adds a tinge of melancholy to the otherwise upbeat song and creates tension that resolves beautifully in the chorus.

The tempo of “Suzanne” is set at a moderate pace of around 128 beats per minute, which is perfect for the rock ballad style that Journey has opted for. The tempo allows for a smooth, rhythmic flow that complements the melodic structure of the song and accentuates the emotional depth of the lyrics.

The drums lay a solid foundation with a consistent beat, while the bass locks in to create a tight rhythm section. The guitar work is nothing short of exceptional, with a mix of melodic riffs and arpeggios that add a layer of complexity to the song. The synthesizer, a staple of the ’80s sound, is also present, providing a lush atmosphere that supports the overall composition.

Vocally, Steve Perry delivers a powerful and emotive performance, with his soaring vocal range on full display. The harmonies and backing vocals further enhance the song’s rich texture, making it an unforgettable listening experience.

In conclusion, “Suzanne” is a prime example of Journey’s ability to craft complex and engaging compositions that keep their listeners hooked. From the key and chord progressions to the tempo and instrumental arrangement, every detail comes together to create a truly memorable track that stands the test of time.

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Suzanne by Journey

• I see your face at the movies I hear your voice on the radio You're makin' love on the silver screen I want you more, I know Temptation, infatuation Suzanne, don't walk away On no Suzanne, oh girl I'm callin' you Suzanne, so far away Remember Suzanne, those summer nights with me I wonder if you're really happy And if you saw me, would you know my name I'm the one you used to hold on to You're the one who used to wear my ring Remember our last September Oh Suzanne, don't walk away On no Suzanne, oh girl I'm callin' you Suzanne, so far away Remember Suzanne, those summer nights with me Remember our last September Suzanne, so far away Remember Suzanne, those summer nights with me Suzanne, don't walk away, I love you Suzanne I'm still callin' you Suzanne, no, no, no, no, no, remember Those summer nights with me, those summer nights Writer/s: Jonathan Cain, Stephen Ray Perry Publisher: Hipgnosis Songs Group Lyrics licensed and provided by LyricFind
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Comments: 1

• Suzanne M from Ohio I've always lived this song bc we share the same name. Nit many has heard it until me. I still play it till this day.

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• Behind the Song
• Leonard Cohen

Behind the Song: Leonard Cohen, “Suzanne”

by David Freeland September 25, 2019, 8:00 am 3 Comments

“Suzanne” Written by Leonard Cohen

Videos by American Songwriter

Once created, a great song can exist independently of its creators, taking on a life of its own as it rises to iconic status within the cultural landscape. Such is the case with “Suzanne,” the haunting composition that has become one of Canadian singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen’s best-known works. A look into “Suzannes”’s history reveals how, in the making of art, the real people who serve as inspiration, unfortunately, though perhaps inevitably, get left behind.

Leonard Cohen was already well-known by the time of the song’s ascendance, but not as a performer. Born to a Jewish family in Montreal in 1934, Cohen published his first book of poetry at the age of 22. His experimental novel, Beautiful Losers (which one critic described as “the most revolting book ever written in Canada”), was published in 1966 and soon gained a reputation as a benchmark of countercultural expression. According to writer Judith Skelton Grant, who published an article on Cohen in the journal Studies in Canadian Literature , “Suzanne” began life as a poem. It was given substantial revisions by the time of its first presentation as a song, by Judy Collins on her 1966 album, In My Life . Since then it has been recorded by dozens of artists, becoming as much of a 1960s standard as “Respect” or “Yesterday”—a masterwork that defines one era and continues to inspire our own.

Artistically, the song’s brilliance lies in its pairing of a spare, hypnotic melody with evocative lyrics: “Now Suzanne takes you down/To her place near the river/You can hear the boats go by/You can spend the night beside her/And you know she’s half crazy.” In Cohen’s version, first recorded on his 1968 album, Songs of Leonard Cohen , the mood is underscored by a lilting female chorus and Cohen’s own subtle, insistent guitar playing. Cohen delineates his enigmatic title figure, who wears “rags and feathers from Salvation Army counters,” so sharply that we seem to know everything we need to about her. Within the context of the song, she is a complete and satisfying creation. Still, the question demands asking: Is there any benefit, for us as listeners, in knowing something about the “real” Suzanne?

As has been explained by a number of music scholars, “Suzanne” is Suzanne Verdal, the beautiful, free-spirited wife of an artist Cohen knew in Montreal during the early 1960s, a time when that city was an epicenter of bohemian culture in North America. Like the song’s character, Verdal did indeed feed Cohen “oranges that come all the way from China”; together, the pair savored the dazzlingly beautiful view, offered by Verdal’s waterfront apartment, of the St. Lawrence River. Other details proffered within the song speak to a romantic longing that, seemingly, remained unfulfilled: “And you want to travel with her/and you want to travel blind… for you’ve touched her perfect body/with your mind.”

“I was the one that put the boundaries on that,” Verdal told CBC reporter Paul Kennedy in 2006, adding, “Somehow, I didn’t want to spoil that preciousness, that infinite respect that I had for him… I felt that a sexual encounter might demean it somehow.” The hunger two gifted and beautiful people have for one another illuminates the lyrics, giving them a spark that seems to resonate from the inside. On a human level, the song is about the mysterious forces that bring people together and, then, just as inexplicably, move them apart. Undoubtedly, “Suzanne,” as a work of art, must be taken on its own terms, but Verdal’s own story demands attention as well; it is, in effect, the story behind the story, the real-life experience that can be found, if we are willing to peel back the song’s layers. Retaining her bohemian identity, Verdal went on to travel the world, going from Montreal to France to Texas, and, finally, by the early 1990s, to Los Angeles, where she worked as a choreographer. A nasty fall and subsequent injury ended her career as a dancer; by the time of the CBC interview, Verdal was living in a converted truck in Venice Beach, California. Photographs reveal her as older, but beautiful, still dressed in the kinds of “rags…from Salvation Army counters” that, long ago, she began transforming into a personal fashion statement.

“You know,” she said, “what’s kind of bittersweet and poignant is I came here with high goals and I didn’t achieve much of those goals.” Perhaps, because it has survived so fully—as a lasting, unimpeachable entity—“Suzanne” can be appreciated as a statement of human frailty as moving as any song ever written. It represents a special moment in time, created by two people whose mutual attraction was not fulfilled in a physical sense, but in an emotional, and, perhaps, deeper, way. The human figures who gave birth to that moment have moved on, underscoring how the artistic works we create will, if they are to enjoy a deep and long-lasting appreciation, outlive us. Unlike people, great songs do not age.

There is a constant purity surrounding this epic poem/song that starkly contrasts with the hedonistic free for all that was the 1960’s. While moral relativism gave some a license to “tune in and turn on”, others savored the massive creativity of this golden age. Lord, I remember it well- and fondly.

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Sheryl Crow: Bearing The Torch

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Song Meanings and Facts

by Amanda London · Published April 12, 2021 · Updated April 12, 2021

San Francisco originated rock band,  Journey  is regarded as one of the best-selling rock bands in the history of rock and roll. Despite the successes the band has achieved over the years, it was quite the opposite in the beginning stages of their career.

The band experienced a number of challenges from their formation in 1973 until 1978 when they broke through with the release of several series of hit songs. 

Just as their name suggests,  Journey  has encountered some bumps on the road to fame in the form of commercial failures, disbanding and reuniting, inconsistent line-ups among many others.

With their musical style varying between seven different genres- Album Rock, Arena Rock, Contemporary Pop, Progressive Rock, Soft Rock and Adult Contemporary, the unique sound of the American band has also been altered drastically.

As of 2020, the line-up consists of these able musicians:

• Neil George Joseph Schon (guitarist & songwriter)
• Ross Lamont Valory (bassist)
• Steve Bruce Smith (drummer)
• Jonathan Leonard Friga popularly as Jonathan Cain (Keyboardist)
• Arnel Campaner Pineda (Lead Singer)
• Randall Darius Jackson (bassist)
• Narada Michael Walden (drummer)
• Jason Derlatka, a temporary backup for the band

Interesting Facts about Journey

With over 80 million sold records worldwide, this group has climbed the ladder to become one of the most celebrated bands in the United States.

The group was nominated for a Grammy Award for  Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal  in 1996.

Their 1981 album  Don’t Stop Believin  became the top-selling track on iTunes Songs not released in the 21st Century. The same album took the No.3 spot on iTunes for the most downloads in 2005.

The albums,  Escape  and  Frontiers , earned the No.1 spot on the Billboard’s 200 and No.6 spot on the UK Albums Chart respectively. 

Journey  is currently ranked the 96th Greatest Artist of All-Time by  Video Hits One  (VH1).

Seven of  Journey’s  current and past members were inducted into the  Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame  in 2017 and received a  Hollywood Walk of Fame  star on January 21, 2005.

The current lead singer of the band, Arnel Pineda was discovered through a YouTube video of his performance with his former band,  The Zoo. Journey’s  guitarist Neal Schon, was convinced by the lead singer’s sound and recruited him.

Arnel Pineda assumed  Journey’ s job offer to him was a prank so it took him six weeks before he accepted the job.

Former band member, Gregg Rolie quit the band in order to start his family.

Guitarist Neal Schon is the only band member to have never quit the band since its formation. He has played in all fourteen albums of the band to date.

Former lead singer of the band, Steve Perry remains the most loved vocalist of the band even after his departure.

Before becoming a lead vocalist for the group, Steve Perry sang in commercials.

The group’s bassist Randy Jackson (Randall Darius Jackson) became a judge on the famous United States talent show,  American Idol .

Brief Conclusion

Journey  has over the years grown to become one of America’s favorites. For the past 40 active years of this band’s career, they have proven that greatness can be re-lived over and over again even if it is done by a different set of people with the same goal.

As of this writing, the group has remained musically active and is preparing to release more albums and singles following its most previous release in February 2021.

Famous Songs by Journey

• “To Play Some Music”
• “On a Saturday Night”
• “She Makes Me (Feel Alright)”
• “Spaceman”
• “Wheel in the Sky”
• “Anytime”
• “Lights”
• “Just the Same Way”
• “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'”
• “City of the Angels”
• “Too Late”
• “Any Way You Want It”
• “Walks Like a Lady”
• “Good Morning Girl”
• “Stay Awhile”
• “The Party’s Over (Hopelessly in Love)”
• “Dixie Highway”
• “Who’s Crying Now”
• “Stone in Love”
• “ Don’t Stop Believin’ “
• “Open Arms”
• “Still They Ride”
• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”
• “Faithfully”
• “After the Fall”
• “Send Her My Love”
• “Be Good to Yourself”
• “Suzanne”
• “Girl Can’t Help It”
• “Raised on Radio”
• “I’ll Be Alright Without You”
• “Why Can’t This Night Go on Forever”
• “Natural Thing”
• “When You Love a Woman”
• “Message of Love”
• “Can’t Tame the Lion”
• “If He Should Break Your Heart”
• “Higher Place”
• “All the Way”
• “With Your Love”
• “The Place in Your Heart”
• “After All These Years”
• “Never Walk Away”
• “Where Did I Lose Your Love”
• “Anything Is Possible”
• “City of Hope”
• “Human Feel”

Related posts:

Journey’s “don’t stop believin’” lyrics meaning, “keep on runnin'” by journey, “send her my love” by journey.

• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” by Journey 
• “Who’s Crying Now” by Journey
• “Never Walk Away” by Journey
• “Foolish Heart” by Steve Perry
• “Zoot Suit Riot” by Cherry Poppin’ Daddies

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