is randy jackson touring with journey

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Entertainment

Reunited! Randy Jackson Rejoins Journey as Official Bassist: 'The Boys Are Back'

The former American Idol judge was part of the iconic band in the 1980s

Randy Jackson is back to his rock band roots.

On Saturday, Journey guitarist Neal Schon announced the new lineup of band members (following the exit of bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith), including the former American Idol judge, 63, as the new bassist.

Jackson was temporarily part of the "Any Way You Want It" band back in the 1980s.

"Ok Friends word is out! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again 💪🏾🕶," Schon, 66, wrote on Instagram, adding in another post , "The King is back 💪🏾🕶 @randyjackson 🔥🔥."

Schon, on Twitter , also referred to Journey as an "ever-changing unstoppable force," stating that the group is entering "a completely new chapter for us and can't wait to get to it!"

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories

The newly restructured Journey — which also includes Narada Michael Walden on drums — performed during UNICEF's Won't Stop benefit on Saturday, playing their hit "Don't Stop Believin'" together.

"Y'all vibe with @journeymusicofficial revival tonight!? The boys are back 😎," Jackson wrote on Instagram, sharing a throwback photo from his Journey glory days.

RELATED VIDEO: Snoop Dogg Listens to ‘Let It Go’ — and Idina Menzel Responds with ‘Drop It Like It’s Hot’

In other potential reunion news for Jackson, Simon Cowell said in September that he wants to make another show with his original American Idol cohorts, Jackson and Paula Abdul .

The trio appeared together on The Kelly Clarkson Show to reminisce with the host (who, of course, was the first winner of the competition series back in 2002), when Cowell, 60, shared his wish for a reunion.

"It does make me think," Cowell said at the time. "If I had one wish, it'd be to make another show with us again. That would be my No. 1 wish."

"Let's go, man," Jackson responded.

Related Articles

Journey Reveal Lineup Changes, Randy Jackson’s Return

• By Daniel Kreps

Daniel Kreps

Journey ‘s Neal Schon announced a pair of lineup changes — including the return of bassist and American Idol judge Randy Jackson — Saturday following an alleged coup attempt by the band’s now-former bassist and drummer.

“Ok Friends word is out!  @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again,” Schon wrote on social media, adding that Grammy-winning drummer Narada Michael Walden had also joined the latest Journey incarnation.

Jackson previously served as Journey’s bassist in the mid-Eighties, appearing on the band’s 1986 LP Raised on Radio . The new lineup made their debut Saturday with a socially distanced performance of “Don’t Stop Believin’” as part of the UNICEF Won’t Stop fundraiser concert.

“Journey is an ever-changing unstoppable force,” Schon added on Twitter. “This is a completely new chapter for us and can’t wait to get to it!”

Fans will have to wait a little longer to see Journey’s new lineup in action after the band canceled their summer tour with the Pretenders due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In March, Journey fired their longtime bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith after the two allegedly attempted to orchestrate a “malicious and very ill-conceived” coup attempt to wrestle control of the Rock Hall-inducted group’s copyright away from Schon and Jonathan Cain; Valory and Smith later countersued their former band mates.

Meet the MVP of 'Shōgun' — Ex-Punk Rocker and Japanese Movie Star Tadanobu Asano

Team trump is ready to lose the supreme court immunity case. they’re celebrating, billie eilish would like to reintroduce herself, russian mercenaries hunt the african warlord america couldn’t catch.

“The Journey name is controlled by Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain,” a lawyer for Cain and Schon told Rolling Stone at the time. “And for very good cause, they don’t want to perform with Smith or Valory anymore, they don’t want to have anything to do with them, and that’s their right. They’re going to go on with Journey, continue with the great success of the past and these two guys are going to get replaced.”

Valory, a co-founding member of Journey, was previously fired by the band in 1985 ; at that time, he was also replaced by Jackson.

Rihanna Again Teases New Album 'R9': 'It's Gonna Be Amazing'

• the wait continues...

Kathleen Hanna Recalls Falling in Love With a Beastie Boy in 'Rebel Girl' Book Excerpt

• By Kory Grow

Post Malone Teams With Brad Paisley, Dwight Yoakam for Country Pivot at Stagecoach

• Stagecoach 2024
• By Larisha Paul

Miranda Lambert Surprises Stagecoach 2024 With Reba McEntire, Debuts New Song 'Wranglers'

• Fancy Cameo
• By Joseph Hudak

Salma Hayek Joins Madonna for ‘Vogue’ in Mexico City

• By Althea Legaspi

Most Popular

Anne hathaway says 'gross' chemistry test in the 2000s required her to make out with 10 guys: that's the 'worst way to do it' and 'now we know better', louvre considers moving mona lisa to underground chamber to end 'public disappointment', 'the lord of the rings' trilogy returning to theaters, remastered and extended, sources gave an update on hugh jackman's 'love life' after fans raised concerns about his well-being, you might also like, taylor swift debuts with 2.61 million units for ‘the tortured poets department,’ the best number for any album in nine years, fit responds to protest on campus as unrest at colleges continues, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors, ‘challengers’ is a ‘pure fantasy for me,’ says screenwriter justin kuritzkes, detroit sets nfl draft attendance record at 2024 event.

Rolling Stone is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Rolling Stone, LLC. All rights reserved.

Verify it's you

Please log in.

• Discount Codes

Journey announce line-up changes as former bassist Randy Jackson rejoins

The former 'American Idol' judge played with the band in the 80s

Journey guitarist Neal Schon has announced some key line-up changes to the band, including the return of former bassist and American Idol judge Randy Jackson.

On Saturday (May 23), Schon revealed that the band had recruited both Jackson and Grammy-winning drummer Narada Michael Walden. “Ok Friends word is out ! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again,” he announced on Instagram.

In a separate post, he shared the news of Walden’s addition to the line-up, writing: “Word is out ! @officialnarada Narada Michael Walden is our new Drummer! Multi talented song writer Producer / Mahavishnu orchestra The J Boyz will have a new Strut thank you for your love and help my LadyM.”

View this post on Instagram Ok Friends word is out ! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again 💪🏾🕶 A post shared by Neal Schon Music (@nealschon) on May 23, 2020 at 8:15pm PDT

View this post on Instagram Word is out ! @officialnarada Narada Michael Walden is our new Drummer! Multi talented song writer Producer / Mahavishnu orchestra 🔥🔥🔥🔥 The J Boyz will have a new Strut 🕶💪🏾 thank you for your love and help my LadyM 🌹 A post shared by Neal Schon Music (@nealschon) on May 23, 2020 at 8:19pm PDT

The vacancies required filling after Journey spectacularly sacked their drummer and bassist over an alleged “corporate coup d’état” earlier this year .

Steve Smith and bassist Ross Valory were accused of trying to take over the corporate entity Nightmare Productions, Inc. in an attempt to take control of the Journey name.

Recommended

The band’s remaining principal members, Schon and keyboardist Jon Cain, filed a lawsuit on March 3 against the former drummer and bassist.

Jackson originally played bass with Journey in the ’80s, performing on the band’s 1986 album ‘Raised on Radio’.

Since then he has become known for his appearances as the longest-serving judge on American Idol and executive producer for MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew. Jackson has previously won a Grammy Award for his work as a producer.

The new Journey lineup made its debut during a socially distanced performance of ‘Don’t Stop Believin” for UNICEF’s Won’t Stop fundraiser .

• Related Topics

You May Also Like

Good neighbours live in london: tiktok stars spin obvious influences into heartfelt anthems, pet shop boys – ‘nonetheless’ review: still setting pop’s benchmark, steven knight on ‘this town’ and his big-budget ‘peaky blinders’ movie, the party never sleeps: fat dog unleashed in america, ‘sand land’ review: a charming adaptation of akira toriyama’s legendary manga, more stories, drew carey said he’d “stick his dick in a blender” for phish, so they sent him a blender, ringo starr says there’s “not a lot of joy” in the beatles’ ‘let it be’ documentary ahead of re-release, bill wyman opens up about his exit from the rolling stones – and life since, monica lewinsky uses taylor swift meme to attack bill clinton, watch lana del rey cover ‘unchained melody’ with paul cauthen at stagecoach festival, kings of leon announce ‘live at wrexham’ bonus version of new album.

Journey bring back bassist Randy Jackson

Journey’s Neal Schon reveals that bassist Randy Jackson is back in the band, with drummer Narada Michael Walden completing the new-look lineup

Journey ’s Neal Schon has confirmed that the band’s former bassist Randy Jackson has returned to the group.

In addition, drummer Narada Michael Walden has been brought into the fold to complete the new-look lineup.

The news comes after Ross Valory and Steve Smith were dismissed from Journey back in March over claims the pair had attempted a ”corporate coup d'état" to gain control of one of the band's business entities, Nightmare Productions, and take control of the Journey name.

Jackson played with Journey between 1985 and 1987, playing on the band’s 1986 album Raised On Radio , while Narada Michael Walden is known for his extensive production work and solo career, and has previously played with artists including Jeff Beck , Carlos Santana and Robert Fripp and the Mahavishnu Orchestra.

Guitarist Schon said on Twitter : “OK, friends, the word is out. Randy Jackson, the Big Dawg, is our new bass player again.”

He then added: “Narada Michael Walden is our new drummer. Multi-talented songwriter/producer, Mahavishnu Orchestra. The J Boyz will have a new strut.”

Replying to comment that Journey were an “ever-changing unstoppable force,” Schon replied: "Couldn’t agree more. This is a completely new chapter for us and can’t wait to get to it.”

Classic Rock Newsletter

Sign up below to get the latest from Classic Rock, plus exclusive special offers, direct to your inbox!

Jackson and Walden made their Journey debuts when the band played a lockdown version of Don’t Stop Believin’ for a UNICEF fundraising event on Saturday evening. 

In legal papers filed at the Superior Court of Contra Costa County, California, against Valory and Smith in March, Schon and keyboard player Jonathan Cain said they had “lost confidence in both of them and are not willing to perform with them again."

The claim continued, "With their actions, Smith and Valory have destroyed the chemistry, cohesion and rapport necessary for the band to play together. Journey can only tour successfully and succeed creatively if it is united and the band members trust one another. The actions taken by Smith and Valory shattered that trust.”

Last month, Valory countersued Schon and Cain , calling the allegations “baseless,” Schon and Cain’s actions “outrageous” with the pair causing “him to suffer severe emotional distress.”

The King is back 💪🏾🕶 @randyjackson 🔥🔥 Neal Schon Music A photo posted by @nealschon on May 23, 2020 at 11:14pm PDT

Scott has spent 35 years in newspapers, magazines and online as an editor, production editor, sub-editor, designer, writer and reviewer. Scott joined our news desk in the summer of 2014 before moving to the e-commerce team in 2020. Scott keeps Louder’s buyer’s guides up to date, writes about the best deals for music fans, keeps on top of the latest tech releases and reviews headphones, speakers, earplugs and more. Over the last 10 years, Scott has written more than 11,000 articles across Louder, Classic Rock, Metal Hammer and Prog. He's previously written for publications including IGN, the Sunday Mirror, Daily Record and The Herald newspapers, covering everything from daily news and weekly features, to tech reviews, video games, travel and whisky. Scott's favourite bands are Fields Of The Nephilim, The Cure, New Model Army, All About Eve, The Mission, Cocteau Twins, Drab Majesty, Marillion and Rush.

"I went, 'I just don't know if my fans are gonna get it.'" How Slayer legend Kerry King ended up guesting on Sum 41's pop punk anthem What We're All About in one of the most unlikely heavy metal cameos ever

"I made it about the sexual cry of love." How The Rolling Stones and a dancer from Hot Gossip inspired one of Billy Idol's greatest hits

“Korn scared me as a kid!” Fontaines D.C. extend Romance tour, talk up unexpected nu metal influences on new album

Most Popular

The Big Dawg is back: American Idol’s Randy Jackson rejoins Journey as bassist

The Rock Hall of Famers also announced new drummer, jazz-fusion legend Narada Michael Walden

Journey recently parted with bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith, firing the two longtime members following a “coup”  in which founding electric guitar player Neal Schon and keyboardist Jonathan Cain alleged the two had attempted to wrest control of the band’s trademark.

Now, Schon has revealed Valory and Smith’s replacements – and it’s a killer rhythm section, to be sure.

Stepping into the drum slot is Narada Michael Walden, the former Mahavishnu Orchestra member who has also played with ace guitarists like Jeff Beck, Allan Holdsworth and Robert Fripp.

On bass, meanwhile, is the Big Dawg himself, American Idol judge Randy Jackson.

Jackson, for his part, is returning for his second run with Journey, having replaced Valory once before to perform on the band’s 1986 album, Raised On Radio, as well as the subsequent tour.

In an Instagram post to announce Jackson’s return, guitarist Neal Schon wrote: “Ok Friends word is out! Randy Jackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again.”

Ok Friends word is out ! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again 💪🏾🕶 Neal Schon Music A photo posted by @nealschon on May 23, 2020 at 8:15pm PDT

In a separate post Schon welcomed Walden to the band, writing, “The J Boyz will have a new Strut.”

Get The Pick Newsletter

All the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals and more, direct to your inbox!

The new lineup made their debut with a socially distanced performance of the classic Don’t Stop Believin’ as part of the UNICEF Won’t Stop fundraiser concert.

You can check it out above.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month**

Join now for unlimited access

US pricing $3.99 per month or $39.00 per year

UK pricing £2.99 per month or £29.00 per year 

Europe pricing €3.49 per month or €34.00 per year

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Prices from £2.99/$3.99/€3.49

Rich is the co-author of the best-selling Nöthin' But a Good Time: The Uncensored History of the '80s Hard Rock Explosion. He is also a recording and performing musician, and a former editor of Guitar World magazine and executive editor of Guitar Aficionado magazine. He has authored several additional books, among them Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck, the companion to the documentary of the same name.

“Sometimes I make the bassline too complex and too noodly, but Thom is good at putting the brakes on that”: How Colin Greenwood came up with his deceptive stop-start bassline on Radiohead’s Airbag

“If you walk through a Guitar Center, you see an awful lot of $300 guitars. If I’m a serious musician, it doesn’t feel like the right place for me anymore”: Guitar Center’s new CEO explains why the firm’s future must prioritize premium guitars

“There isn’t much guitar at all for the first three tracks. Nobody gave me the memo about what a record should sound like”: How Steve Vai revolutionized guitar with his debut album, Flex-Able

Most Popular

• Accessories
• Transcriptions
• Terms of Use

Sign up for the Bass Magazine Newsletter

Stay in the loop for the latest news on all things low end delivered right to your inbox.

Journey to Release First New Album in Decade Featuring Randy Jackson on Bass

Journey unleashed the first single “You Got The Best Of Me” off their forthcoming studio album, Freedom, due out July 8th

As one of the world’s most beloved rock bands, Journey continues to create new music and thrill audiences night after night in sold out arenas worldwide in conjunction with AEG as their promoter.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, Journey have 25 gold and platinum albums, including the fifteen-million selling Greatest Hits collection, with total sales adding up to 80 million records around the world. 

Emerging from the pandemic with a supercharged new studio line-up, today, the members of Journey unleash the first single “You Got The Best Of Me” off their forthcoming studio album, Freedom – due out July 8 via BMG.   

Listen Here

“You Got The Best Of Me” will be followed this summer by an epic, fifteen-track set of new original songs that brings back the grand scale of the group’s greatest moments, along with updated and bold new directions and sounds. 

“I wanted kind of a punky rendition of ‘Any Way You Want It’”, says the group’s founding member, guitarist, songwriter, and producer Neal Schon about the single. “I usually don’t go in saying I’m going to look for something like that, but then it just came to me, like “Wheel in the Sky” did years ago. It just kind of flew out of my mouth.”

While the forthcoming album was made with visions of arena and stadium stages, it started from humble beginnings. In 2020, as COVID swept the globe, Schon was stuck at home like the rest of us. “During the pandemic, there wasn’t much to do,” he says. “I spent a lot of time in my little studio at home, learning how to play keyboards and looping. Some of those ideas ended up being songs. So it kind of came out of nowhere.”

As the band’s legend continues to grow larger and their touring gets bigger, Freedom will be the first album of new material to be released in eleven years, since 2011’s Eclipse, and in addition to longtime keyboard player and primary lyricist Jonathan Cain and vocalist Arnel Pineda, one more member was recruited for the upcoming album — bassist extraordinaire Randy Jackson, who had played on Journey’s 1986 album Raised on Radio.

• Next »

• Missing Teen
• Local Change location
• Entertainment
• Perspectives

TV Programs

• Global National
• The Morning Show
• Video Centre
• More…
• Email alerts
• Breaking News Alerts from Global News
• License Content
• New Brunswick
• Peterborough

Close Local

Your local region.

• All event types

Quick Search

Trending now.

Add Global News to Home Screen Close

Instructions:

• Press the share icon on your browser
• Select Add to Home Screen

Comments Close comments menu

Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.

Journey reveals new band lineup, including bassist Randy Jackson

If you get Global News from Instagram or Facebook - that will be changing. Find out how you can still connect with us .

This article is more than 3 years old and some information may not be up to date.

Following the firing of bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith earlier this year, Journey , the veteran American rock band, has revealed its new lineup —   which includes the return of former American Idol  judge  Randy Jackson .

On Saturday — directly after a virtual, physically distanced, virtual performance of their 1981 smash hit Don’t Stop Believin’ — longtime Journey guitarist Neal Schon took to Twitter to confirm the band had officially become a six-piece.

In the UNICEF charity video , Jackson, 63, is seen rocking the bass along to the rock anthem, while Grammy-winning drummer Narada Michael Walden sat on the drum throne, as newcomer Jason Derlatka rocked backing vocals and a keyboard.

“ OK friends, word is out! RJ the Big Dawg is our new bass player again,” tweeted Schon, 66.

“Word is out! Narada Michael Walden is our new Drummer! The J Boyz will have a new strut,” he added in a separate tweet .

“W elcome to our Journey family Randy Jackson, Narada Michael Walden and Jason Derlatka,” Schon concluded in another .

Jackson originally joined Journey in 1985 after Valory, 71, was fired for the first time. He served as their bassist until 1987, before they went on an indefinite hiatus. Additionally, he contributed to the band’s 1986 record Raised on Radio.

Walden, 68, is known well for his work as a record producer and his work as a drummer for British guitar virtuoso Jeff Beck . Throughout his nearly five-decade career, Walden has released 12 albums as a solo artist.

Derlatka seems to be known best from the success of a variety of classic rock covers shared to YouTube, including one of Journey’s Send Her My Love   (1983).

View this post on Instagram Y'all vibe with @journeymusicofficial revival tonight!? The boys are back 😎 A post shared by Randy Jackson (@randyjackson) on May 23, 2020 at 9:20pm PDT

“Journey is an ever-changing unstoppable force,” Schon tweeted .

“This is a completely new chapter for us and can’t wait to get to it!” he added .

Smith and Valory’s recent dismissals resulted in an ongoing and egregious legal battle them the band.

On March 3, Schon and keyboardist Jonathan Cain, 70, filed a lawsuit against the former members claiming they were part of a “malicious” “coup to assume control” of the band’s name in order to ensure “windfall payments in the millions of dollars after their retirement,” as seen in legal documents files obtained by Rolling Stone .

Valory reportedly fired back in late April with a counter-claim, alleging his former bandmates had breached a previously established contract from the mid-1990s that declared that a company by the name of Nightmare Productions actually owned the band’s name as opposed to Schon and Cain.

“The cross-complaint has no merit whatsoever. Valory is out of the band,” said Skip Miller, an attorney representing Schon and Cain, as reported by the outlet.

“When the pandemic is over, Journey will go out on tour without (them). Life will go on.”

For additional information and band updates, you can visit the official Journey website .

• Why can’t we hear full songs in podcasts? Well, it’s complicated
• Recipe: Chef Ned Bell’s B.C. turkey burger
• ‘A huge deal’: International superstar Diljit Dosanjh in Vancouver to launch concert tour
• Ellen DeGeneres jokes she was ‘kicked out’ of showbiz for being ‘mean’

Sponsored content

Report an error, subscribe here.

Journey Announces New Lineup, Randy Jackson's Return After Three Decades

By Andrew Magnotta @AndrewMagnotta

May 26, 2020

Journey revealed a new six-piece lineup in a virtual performance of "Don't Stop Believin'" during Saturday's Unicef benefit concert.

The performance revealed that renowned producer and former Journey bassist Randy Jackson had returned to the band after nearly 35 years. The former American Idol judge was joined by drummer Narada Michael Walden and keyboardist Jason Derlatka .

The three fill out Journey's long-serving trio of Neal Schon , Jonathan Cain and Arnel Pineda a few months after a schism in the band resulted in several lawsuits and the firing of its Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rhythm section .

You can watch video of the socially-distanced collaboration in the player below.

Co-founding bassist Ross Valory and longtime drummer Steve Smith were fired from the band and sued in early-March after allegedly attempting to wrest control of the band's trademark from principal members Schon and Cain.

The two sides have traded barbs through their lawyers in the months hence . Journey vowed in a statement to replace Valory and Smith with an equally-talented rhythm section, once the band is able to resume touring.

Journey's planned summer tour with The Pretenders was recently canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Ok, friends, word is out!" Schon wrote via social media over the weekend . "RJ the Big Dawg is our new bass player again."

Jackson was a member of Journey from 1985 to 1987, having joined after the last time Valory and Smith were fired from the band. He played bass and sang background vocals on Journey's 1986 album, Raised on Radio , which went double platinum in the U.S.

Walden have previously been a member of Mahavishnu Orchestra , and has also done stints with Jeff Beck , Robert Fripp and Tommy Bolin .

Derlatka is an Emmy-nominated composer for television who previously worked with Schon and Cain at a benefit show last fall and again with Schon in March for Schon's 'Journey Through Time' project.

Photo: Getty Images

View this post on Instagram Ok Friends word is out ! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again 💪🏾🕶 A post shared by Neal Schon Music (@nealschon) on May 23, 2020 at 8:15pm PDT

© 2024 iHeartMedia, Inc.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Talent Recap

TOP SHOWS right now American Idol Britain's Got Talent Canada's Got Talent The Masked Singer Quiz

Moving Sand Art Performance Earns Golden Buzzer on ‘Canada’s Got Talent’

‘american idol’ season 22 decides the top 12 singers, ‘the voice’ season 25 playoffs begin with team legend, dan + shay, ‘so you think you can dance’ season 18 decides top 8 contestants, amazing choir surprises the judges in ‘britain’s got talent’ early release, ‘american idol’s haven madison talks ‘dark’ new ep, finale duet with katy perry, luke bryan falls on stage during concert, laughs it off by watching replay, ‘britain’s got talent’ series 17 premieres with three golden buzzers, miss cleocatra unmasked on ‘the masked singer’ girl group night.

TOP SHOWS right now

TALENTRECAP.COM Entertainment Celebrity

Former ‘American Idol’ Judge Randy Jackson Returns to Journey

Reading Time: 2 minutes

YO, Dawg! Randy Jackson is back in business! The former American Idol judge will return as a bassist for the iconic rock band, Journey. Guitarist Neal Schon made the announcement after parting ways with founding bassist Ross Valory, and longtime drummer Steve Smith. It was alleged that the two had attempted to take control of the band’s trademark. Jackson performed with the band in the late 1980s, now coming full circle on his new journey (no pun intended).

Back in the day, Jackson temporarily replaced Valory, and played on the 1986  Raised On Radio  album. He joined the band on the subsequent tour amid packed arenas and stadiums. The album produced three Top 20 singles in the United States, “Girl Can’t Help It,” “I’ll Be Alright Without You,” and “Suzanne.” It also managed to muster up a top ten single “Be Good To Yourself.” The song went to number four on the Billboard 200 chart and went certified double platinum in the USA.

Back and Better than Ever

Today the band is back and better than ever! Guitarist Neal Schon took to Instagram to announce Jackson’s second run with the Hall of Fame inductees.

“Ok Friends word is out! Randy Jackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again” he shared.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neal Schon (@nealschon)

Alongside Jackson is new drummer, Narada Michael Walden. He is a former Mahavishnu Orchestra member who has also played with top guitarists like Jeff Beck, Allan Holdsworth, and Robert Fripp.

RELATED POSTS:

Kelly Clarkson Stuns with Magical Cover of ‘Over the Rainbow’

Gwen Stefani Calls Blake Shelton Divorce Rumors ‘Just Lies’ in New Interview

Journey drops a new single.

The band sure didn’t waste any time getting to work. A couple of weeks ago, Journey dropped “The Way We Used To Be” available for streaming on all platforms. They also released a corresponding music video to the track on YouTube , and I have to say, it’s very clever.

The video is a cartoon that depicts a couple in love, who are forced to separate during the Coronavirus Pandemic. There, we follow the journey of these two characters who are just trying to get back to the way things used to be. Man, we’ve all been there.

The former Idol Judge is definitely doing his thing now with Journey. It’s amazing to see Jackson get back out there and start performing again. They’ve already started off hot with this single, so I cannot wait to see what comes next from the rock icons. I surely won’t “stop believin'” that in 2021, Journey is bringing the heat!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Randy Jackson (@randyjackson)

‘The Voice’ Winner Cassadee Pope is Back with a New Pop-Punk Album

Talent Recap Comment Policy

What do you think we welcome your insight and opinions, but keep them clean comments are monitored, and abusive content will be removed..

I saw Randy Jackson with Journey on tour ..In December, 1986 . He was amazing !!!!

The latest news, videos, opinions about celebrities

Why ‘DWTS’ Fans Are Convinced Jenna Johnson, Val Chmerkovskiy Are Expecting Again

‘AGT’ Star Courtney Hadwin Thanks Fans for Supporting Her Go Fund Me

Calling all Talent Enthusiasts!

• All Talent News
• America's Got Talent
• Dancing With the Stars
• Celebrity News

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. You can view more details on Privacy and Policy

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Journey's Neal Schon says he and Steve Perry are 'in a good place' before band's 50th anniversary

On the cusp of turning 50, the band that etched “Don’t Stop Believin’ ” and “Faithfully” into lighters-up lore is entering “a cleaned-up chapter of Journey.”

That’s according to Neal Schon, the band’s ace guitarist, lone original constant and de facto CEO.

Despite decades of fluctuating lineups and  snarly lawsuits among band members , Journey endures.

On July 8, the band released “Freedom,” its first new album in 11 years that also presents the return of Randy Jackson (as in "American Idol") on bass. The 15-song collection is steeped with vintage-sounding ballads (“Still Believe in Love,” “Live to Love Again”) and soaring melodic rockers (“United We Stand,” “You Got the Best of Me”).

Journey – including longtime keyboardist Jonathan Cain,  peppy singer Arnel Pineda , drummer Deen Castronovo and keyboardist Jason Derlatka, adding bassist Todd Jensen for live shows – will hit Resorts World Las Vegas  this month for shows backed by a symphony orchestra before rolling through more arena dates this summer and in early 2023, the band’s official 50th year.

Journey in pop culture: Quarantined family perfectly re-creates 'Separate Ways' music video at home

Regular road warriors who consistently pack arenas and stadiums – their 27 shows this year grossed $28 million, according to Billboard Boxscore – Journey relies on a solid catalog of mega-hits and a devoted fan base that appreciates the familiarity.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers also received a boost from Netflix’s ’80s-centered “Stranger Things” when the show used “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” in the trailer for the just-ended season, launching the song onto Billboard’s Rock Digital Songs chart. The affable Schon, 68, talked with USA TODAY about the band’s complicated legacy, his relationship with former frontman Steve Perry and plans for Journey's golden anniversary.

Santana recovers: Carlos Santana collapsed on stage from heat, dehydration 

Question: Are you amazed at how the Journey train keeps rolling after almost 50 years?

Neal Schon: It’s quite an accomplishment and I’m very proud of what we’ve done and how we’ve gotten through emotional and personnel changes and survived. It’s pretty mind-boggling but also a lot of hard work.

Q: Does the title “Freedom” refer to anything specifically?

Schon: Our ex-manager Herbie Herbert  wanted to call the (1986) “Raised on Radio” album “Freedom” because he always came up with these one-word titles. Steve (Perry) fought him on that and got his way, so we sat on it for many years. When we got through the lawsuit with the ex-bandmates, we made the new LLC Freedom (JN) and when we were tossing around album titles said, why not just call the whole thing “Freedom?" It's for the times right now.

Q: There’s been a bit of a revolving door in the rhythm section. Deen Castronovo is back for the live shows, but Narada Michael Walden played drums on the album, and Randy Jackson is back in the band, at least on record?

Schon: Deen is singing and playing his butt off. He’s such a musical sponge, this guy. He’s been like my little brother for close to three decades and is such a joy to work with. Randy, he’d been working with me diligently this whole time. He’s so many things beyond being an amazing musician and bass player.

Rock in the rain: Def Leppard, Motley Crue, Poison, Joan Jett combat weather during The Stadium Tour

Q: Will Randy play at any of the upcoming live shows or is Todd Jensen handling those duties?

Schon: Randy is still recovering from some surgery and he stays very busy and Todd fits like a glove. Having said that, I think with our 50th anniversary next year, there’s room for everybody to jump in if they want to participate. We did go through an ugly divorce with (Steve Smith and Ross Valory) with the court proceedings (in 2021, Schon and Cain settled a $10 million trademark lawsuit with the band’s former drummer and bassist). But definitely, if Steve Perry wanted to come on and sing a song, yes. If (original Journey singer) Gregg Rolie wanted to come sing a couple of songs, yes. Randy Jackson (can) come sit in on some of the material – he played on a lot of hits on “Raised on Radio.”

Q: Do you talk much with Steve Perry?

Schon: We are in contact. It’s not about him coming out with us, but we’re speaking on different levels. That’s a start, even if it’s all business. And I’m not having to go through his attorney! We’ve been texting and emailing. He’s a real private guy and he wants to keep it that way. We’re in a good place.

Q: Do you think, after 15 years, that people have accepted Arnel?

Schon: I was diligent in that I wanted to show the massive size of our audience, so I hired photogs to come out every show and shoot the audience and show the size of the crowd to make everybody see, what am I missing? From putting up the different photos every night and the reviews from the fans online, I saw very little of “This is not Journey, man.” I think we just shut everybody up.

• On This Day in Bass
• Contributors

Journey Returns with “Freedom”, Featuring Randy Jackson

Fans of the band’s classic sound will be glad to hear tracks like “United We Stand” and “Don’t Give Up On Us”. Check out Jackson’s uncharacteristically fuzzy tone on “Let It Rain”:

Journey is gearing up to tour in support of Freedom , albeit without Jackson as he recovers from surgery. Bassist Todd Jensen is holding down the low end for the trek, which kicks off July 15th in Las Vegas.

Freedom is available now on CD , vinyl and as a digital download ( iTunes and Amazon MP3 ).

Freedom Track List:

• Together We Run
• Don’t Give Up On Us
• Still Believe In Love
• You Got The Best Of Me
• Live To Love Again
• The Way We Used To Be
• Come Away With Me
• Let It Rain
• All Day and All Night
• United We Stand
• Life Rolls On
• Beautiful As You Are

Journey 2022 Tour Dates:

*with symphony orchestra

More from No Treble

Journey Announces “Freedom” 2023 Tour Dates with Toto

Bailey, Wooten, and Patitucci Host “Producer/Bassist” Webinar

Randy Jackson Rejoins Journey

Get daily bass updates..

Get the latest news, videos, lessons, and more in your inbox every morning.

Share your thoughts Cancel reply

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Randy Jackson Reunites With Journey

Journey ’s making some lineup changes. On Saturday night, Neal Schon revealed that the band recruited Grammy-winning drummer Narada Michael Walden and reunited with bassist Randy Jackson .

“Ok Friends word is out ! @randyjackson RJ the Big Dawg is our new Bass player again” Schon announced on Instagram .

In a separate post , he shared the news of Walden joining Journey’s latest incarnation. “Word is out ! @officialnarada Narada Michael Walden is our new Drummer! Multi talented song writer Producer / Mahavishnu orchestra The J Boyz will have a new Strut thank you for your love and help my LadyM,” he wrote.

Jackson served as Journey’s bassist in the mid-80s, and played on the band’s 1986 album Raised on Radio . The new lineup made its debut during a socially distanced performance of “Don’t Stop Believin'” for UNICEF’s Won’t Stop fundraiser.

The lineup change comes after Schon and keyboardist Jon Cain fired drummer Steven Smith and bassist Ross Valory after they allegedly attempted a “coup.” In March, Schon and Cain filed a lawsuit against the rhythm section, claiming the pair concocted a “scheme” that was “not only malicious but also very ill-conceived” in order to “hold the Journey name hostage” and “provide them with wind-fall payments for their retirement.”

Recommended Stories

2024 nfl draft grades: denver broncos earn one of our lowest grades mostly due to one pick.

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Broncos' 2024 draft.

NFL Draft: Packers fan upset with team's 1st pick, and Lions fans hilariously rubbed it in

Not everyone was thrilled with their team's draft on Thursday night.

NFL Draft: Bears take Iowa punter, who immediately receives funny text from Caleb Williams

There haven't been many punters drafted in the fourth round or higher like Tory Taylor just was. Chicago's No. 1 overall pick welcomed him in unique fashion.

NFL to allow players to wear protective Guardian Caps in games beginning with 2024 season

The NFL will allow players to wear protective Guardian Caps during games beginning with the 2024 season. The caps were previously mandated for practices.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones compared his 2024 NFL Draft strategy to robbing a bank

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made an amusing analogy when asked why the team selected three offensive lineman in the 2024 NFL Draft.

NFL Draft: Spencer Rattler's long wait ends, as Saints draft him in the 5th round

Spencer Rattler once looked like a good bet to be a first-round pick.

Korey Cunningham, former NFL lineman, found dead in New Jersey home at age 28

Cunningham played 31 games in the NFL with the Cardinals, Patriots and Giants.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Kansas City Chiefs get even richer with one of the best hauls this year

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Chiefs' 2024 draft.

Michael Penix Jr. said Kirk Cousins called him after Falcons' surprising draft selection

Atlanta Falcons first-round draft pick Michael Penix Jr. said quarterback Kirk Cousins called him after he was picked No. 8 overall in one of the 2024 NFL Draft's more puzzling selections.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Baltimore Ravens do what they do best — let good players fall into their laps

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Ravens' 2024 draft.

ACCEPT Shares Lyric Video For Single “Frankenstein”, New Album “Humanoid” Out Now

Black veil brides share music video for new single “bleeders”, announce ep of the same name, powerman 5000 stream new single “dancing like we’re dead” from upcoming studio album “abandon ship”.

• ALICE COOPER Re-Releases “Breadcrumbs” Album With Bonus Tracks
• Legendary PINK FLOYD’s Guitarist DAVID GILMOUR Share Music Video For “The Piper’s Call”
• MÖTLEY CRÜE Reveal Official Music Video For New “Dogs Of War”
• METAL CHURCH Guitarist KURDT VANDERHOOF’s HALL AFLAME Reveal Music Video For Single ‘1974’
• FLOTSAM AND JETSAM Premiere Music Video For Upcoming Album Title Track “I Am The Weapon”

JOURNEY Announces ‘Freedom Tour 2023’ with Very Special Guest TOTO

One of the most legendary rock bands of all time, JOURNEY has announced the continuation of their highly successful tour with the 50th-anniversary celebration “Freedom Tour 2023” featuring very special guest TOTO . JOURNEY , diamond-selling Rock And Roll Hall Of Famers, will take the stage in 38 cities across North America with their catalog of global chart-topping hits, including “Don’t Stop Believin'”, “Any Way You Want It”, “Faithfully” and “Lights”.

Presented by AEG Presents , JOURNEY “Freedom Tour 2023” begins February 4 in Allentown, Pennsylvania, making stops in Austin, Montreal, Memphis and more before wrapping April 25 at the brand new Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California. The 2023 run includes rescheduled dates in Washington D.C., Hartford, Toronto and Quebec that were postponed earlier this year due to COVID-19.

JOURNEY features founder Neal Schon (lead guitarist), Jonathan Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Arnel Pineda (lead vocals), Jason Derlatka (keyboards, vocals), Deen Castronovo (drums, vocals) and Todd Jensen (bass).

Says Schon : “We are all thankful and overwhelmed by the success of our JOURNEY ‘Freedom Tour 2022’ this year and have added a new run of dates for 2023. We are looking forward to hitting the road again with our very good friends TOTO ! Come join us for a special evening full of fun and rockin’ good memories. See you soon, friends.”

Cain adds: “Excited to perform for our fans as we tour next year with TOTO . The combined hits of both bands represent a couple of decades of excellence that have become a soundtrack for people’s lives. The music of JOURNEY along with the music of TOTO is an example of ‘certain music’ during ‘uncertain times’.”

Very special guest TOTO , who have collectively streamed more than 3.3 billion plays on Spotify alone based on hits including “Rosanna” , “Africa” and “Hold The Line” , will join JOURNEY on all dates.

“Freedom Tour 2023” dates:

February 04 – Allentown, PA – PPL Center February 05 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena February 08 – Savannah, GA – Enmarket Arena February 10 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena February 11 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Coliseum February 14 – Lexington, KY – Rupp Arena February 17 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena February 19 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena February 22 – Austin, TX – Moody Center February 23 – Lafayette, LA – Cajundome February 26 – Jacksonville, FL – Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena March 01 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena * March 03 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center March 04 – Hartford, CT – XL Center * March 08 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre March 09 – Quebec, QC – Videotron Centre * March 12 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena * March 13 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre March 16 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center March 17 – Atlantic City, NJ – Boardwalk Hall March 20 – Champaign, IL – State Farm Center March 21 – Moline, IL – Vibrant Arena at The MARK March 24 – Sioux Falls, SD – Denny Sanford PREMIER Center March 25 – Lincoln, NE – Pinnacle Bank Arena March 28 – Des Moines, IA – Wells Fargo Arena March 31 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center April 01 – Memphis, TN – FedExForum April 04 – San Antonio, TX – AT&T Center April 07 – Springfield, MO – Great Southern Bank Arena April 08 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena April 11 – Casper, WY – Ford Wyoming Center April 13 – Boise, ID – ExtraMile Arena April 14 – Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena April 17 – Eugene, OR – Matthew Knight Arena April 19 – Stockton, CA – Stockton Arena April 22 – Bakersfield, CA – Mechanics Bank Arena April 23 – Fresno, CA – SaveMart Center April 25 – Palm Springs, CA – Acrisure Arena

* Rescheduled date

JOURNEY and TOTO previously joined forces for an early 2022 U.S. arena tour.

JOURNEY is continuing to promote its latest album, “Freedom” , which was released in July via BMG . The LP debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Current Rock chart.

The members of JOURNEY celebrated the album’s release by kicking off a residency featuring special symphony orchestra performances at the new, state-of-the-art Resorts World Casino in Las Vegas.

As JOURNEY ‘s legend continues to grow larger and their touring gets bigger, “Freedom” is the band’s first album of new material to be released in eleven years, since 2011’s “Eclipse” , and in addition to Schon , along with longtime keyboard player and primary lyricist Cain and Pineda , one more member was recruited for the LP — bassist extraordinaire Randy Jackson , who had played on JOURNEY ‘s 1986 album “Raised On Radio” .

Inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017, JOURNEY has 25 gold and platinum albums, with total sales adding up to over 100 million albums worldwide, earning the band two Diamond Awards with a third on the way for the “Frontiers” album. JOURNEY has also surpassed one billion streams on Spotify .

Related Posts

Comments are closed.

JOURNEY Introduces New Bassist TODD JENSEN At Las Vegas Residency Kick-Off

Legendary rockers JOURNEY kicked off their month-long Las Vegas residency on Wednesday, December 1 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels.

Filling in on bass for JOURNEY for the six shows is Todd Jensen , a veteran musician who has played for various artists, including the bands SEQUEL , HARDLINE and HARLOW , as well as David Lee Roth , Ozzy Osbourne , Steve Perry , Alice Cooper and Paul Rodgers . Also part of JOURNEY 's current lineup is returning drummer Deen Castronovo , who shared the drum duties in the band earlier this year with Narada Michael Walden . Walden , bassist Randy Jackson and keyboardist/backing singer Jason Derlatka all joined JOURNEY last year following the band's acrimonious split with drummer Steve Smith and bassist Ross Valory . Jackson — who previously played with JOURNEY during the mid-1980s — was forced to miss all the recent gigs because he is reportedly recovering from back surgery. Prior to the residency, Jackson had been replaced at JOURNEY 's 2021 shows by Marco Mendoza , who had played several shows in 2019 with Castronovo and JOURNEY guitarist Neal Schon under the "Neal Schon's Journey Through Time" banner.

JOURNEY has four more Vegas shows left in its residency: December 7,8,10, and 11.

In June, JOURNEY shared a new single, "The Way We Used To Be" . The song was the multi-platinum band's first new music since 2011's album "Eclipse" , and the first track released by the band's revamped lineup. "The Way We Used To Be" marks Walden and Derlatka 's first studio recordings with the band, and Jackson 's first since 1986's "Raised On Radio" . The song was produced by Narada Michael Walden at his Tarpan Studios , with co-production by Schon and Cain .

Since the group's formation in 1973, JOURNEY has earned 19 top 40 singles, 25 gold and platinum albums, and has sold nearly 100 million albums globally. Their "Greatest Hits" album is certified 15 times-platinum, making JOURNEY one of the few bands to ever have been diamond-certified, and their song "Don't Stop Believin'" has been streamed over one billion times alone.

JOURNEY was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017, and 2018's co-headlining tour with DEF LEPPARD was the band's most successful tour to date, landing them in the Top 10 year-end touring chart with more than 1 million tickets sold, and earning them the prestigious Billboard "Legends Of Live" touring award. March 2019 saw the release of "Escape & Frontiers Live In Japan" , a live DVD/CD set from their concert at the Budokan in Tokyo featuring the band's first-ever performances of the albums "Escape" and "Frontiers" in their entirety. JOURNEY has also received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame and were inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall Of Fame . Additionally, the band is the subject of the award-winning documentary "Don't Stop Believin': Everyman's Journey" about the band's resurgence upon adding Arnel Pineda as lead singer after founding member Neal Schon discovered the Philippines native on YouTube .

JOURNEY will team up with Billy Idol and TOTO for a North American tour in February, March, April and May.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Journey (@journeymusicofficial)

Comments Disclaimer And Information

BLABBERMOUTH.NET uses the Facebook Comments plugin to let people comment on content on the site using their Facebook account. The comments reside on Facebook servers and are not stored on BLABBERMOUTH.NET. To comment on a BLABBERMOUTH.NET story or review, you must be logged in to an active personal account on Facebook. Once you're logged in, you will be able to comment. User comments or postings do not reflect the viewpoint of BLABBERMOUTH.NET and BLABBERMOUTH.NET does not endorse, or guarantee the accuracy of, any user comment. To report spam or any abusive, obscene, defamatory, racist, homophobic or threatening comments, or anything that may violate any applicable laws, use the "Report to Facebook" and "Mark as spam" links that appear next to the comments themselves. To do so, click the downward arrow on the top-right corner of the Facebook comment (the arrow is invisible until you roll over it) and select the appropriate action. You can also send an e-mail to blabbermouthinbox(@)gmail.com with pertinent details. BLABBERMOUTH.NET reserves the right to "hide" comments that may be considered offensive, illegal or inappropriate and to "ban" users that violate the site's Terms Of Service. Hidden comments will still appear to the user and to the user's Facebook friends. If a new comment is published from a "banned" user or contains a blacklisted word, this comment will automatically have limited visibility (the "banned" user's comments will only be visible to the user and the user's Facebook friends).