Jump to content

Journey (band)

From Alfawiki
Journey
Company typeBand
IndustryMusic
Founded1973 in San Francisco, United States
FounderNeal Schon, Gregg Rolie, Ross Valory, George Tickner, Prairie Prince
Headquarters
San Francisco
,
United States
Key people
Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Deen Castronovo, Arnel Pineda, Jason Derlatka, Todd Jensen
ProductsMusic albums, singles
Number of employees
6

Journey is a rock group originating from San Francisco in 1973, founded by former members of Santana, the Steve Miller Band, and Frumious Bandersnatch. The current lineup includes Neal Schon as guitarist and vocalist (the sole remaining founding member); Jonathan Cain handling keyboards, guitars, and vocals; Deen Castronovo on drums and vocals; Arnel Pineda as lead singer; Jason Derlatka on keyboards and vocals; and Todd Jensen playing bass.

The band’s greatest commercial achievements occurred between 1978 and 1987 during the tenure of lead singer Steve Perry. They produced hits such as "Don't Stop Believin'" (1981), which by 2009 had become the highest-selling pre-2000 song in iTunes history. Their seventh studio album, Escape, topped the Billboard 200 chart and included the popular track "Open Arms". The subsequent album, Frontiers (1983), reached number two in the United States and broadened their success in the UK, peaking at number six on the UK Albums Chart. Journey experienced successful reunions during the mid-1990s and regrouped twice more: initially with Steve Augeri from 1998 to 2006, then with Arnel Pineda beginning in 2007.

To date, Journey has amassed 25 gold and platinum certifications, including the RIAA Diamond Certified Greatest Hits (1988), which achieved 18× platinum status. The band has secured 19 top-40 singles on US charts—ranking second for most top-40 hits without a number-one on the Billboard Hot 100—alongside six top-10 singles, two chart-toppers on other Billboard listings, and a top-six UK hit with "Don't Stop Believin'". In 2005, "Don't Stop Believin'" climbed to number three in iTunes downloads. Originally rooted in progressive rock, Journey shifted their style in 1978 with pop-oriented arrangements on their fourth album, Infinity, establishing themselves as a prominent American commercial rock/pop act.

According to the Recording Industry Association of America, Journey has sold over 52 million albums within the United States, ranking them as the 11th highest-selling domestic band. Globally, their record sales surpass 100 million units, placing them among the best-selling bands worldwide. A 2005 USA Today survey ranked them as the fifth-best American rock band. Their tracks continue to be fixtures on arena rock radio internationally. Journey holds the number 96 position on VH1's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. Inductees included Steve Perry, Neal Schon, keyboardists Jonathan Cain and Gregg Rolie, bassist Ross Valory, as well as drummers Aynsley Dunbar and Steve Smith.

1973–1977: Formation, Journey, Look into the Future, and Next

Journey came together in San Francisco in 1973 under the direction of former Santana manager Herbie Herbert. Initially called the Golden Gate Rhythm Section, they served as a backing band for various Bay Area musicians. The original roster featured Santana veterans Neal Schon on lead guitar and Gregg Rolie on keyboards and lead vocals; bassist Ross Valory, previously with Frumious Bandersnatch and Steve Miller Band; rhythm guitarist George Tickner from Frumious Bandersnatch; and drummer Prairie Prince from The Tubes. After just one show, they transitioned from a support role to developing a unique jazz fusion sound. The name "Journey" was proposed by their roadie John Villanueva.

Their debut performance took place at Winterland Ballroom on New Year's Eve 1973 before an audience of approximately 10,000 people, followed by a large-scale concert in Hawaii attended by over 100,000 fans. When Prince departed, British drummer Aynsley Dunbar, known for his work with David Bowie and Frank Zappa, joined in February 1974. This ensemble secured a deal with Columbia Records after performing for label executives at Great American Music Hall.

In November 1974, Journey recorded their self-titled first album with producer Roy Halee; it was released in April 1975 and peaked at number 138 on the Billboard charts. Following rhythm guitarist Tickner's exit due to touring pressures, Schon assumed full responsibility for guitar parts. Their second release, Look into the Future, arrived in January 1976 and reached number 100 on the Billboard Top 200. To promote it, they delivered a notable two-hour set at Seattle’s Paramount Theatre.

Between May and October of 1976, Journey produced their third album, Next, self-produced at His Master's Wheels Studios. This record incorporated a more accessible sound while retaining elements of jazz fusion and progressive rock. Released in February 1977, Next climbed to number 85 on the Billboard Top 200. Despite this upward trend, sales were still modest enough that Columbia Records considered dropping the band.

1977–1980: Transition in Sound, Infinity, Evolution, and Departure

As Journey experienced a plateau in album sales, Columbia Records pushed for a transition toward a more commercially appealing style, along with adding a dedicated frontman to share lead vocal duties with Gregg Rolie. The band brought on Robert Fleischman and embraced a sound reminiscent of Foreigner and Boston. In 1977, Journey toured with Fleischman as the opening act for prominent groups such as Black Sabbath and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. During this period, they began developing new songs, including the track "Wheel in the Sky". After performing at Soldier Field, they encountered Steve Perry. Due to disagreements involving manager Herbie Herbert, Fleischman departed from the band in September.[1][2]

On October 10, 1977, Journey officially recruited Steve Perry to serve as their new lead vocalist.[3] Perry's live debut occurred on October 28. Manager Herbie Herbert enlisted producer Roy Thomas Baker to craft a richly layered production style similar to Baker’s work with Queen. The band’s fourth studio release, Infinity, launched in January 1978, reached number 21 on the US Billboard 200 chart. Their supporting tour marked their first headlining endeavor and included performances alongside Van Halen and Ronnie Montrose.[4]

Conflicts emerged with drummer Aynsley Dunbar over the band's movement away from jazz fusion toward a more mainstream rock approach. Neal Schon cited Dunbar’s inconsistent playing and critical demeanor as reasons for his termination following the conclusion of the 1978 Infinity Tour. His replacement was Steve Smith, a drummer trained at Berklee College of Music.[5]

The ensemble comprising Perry, Schon, Rolie, Smith, and Valory recorded their fifth album, Evolution, which was released in March 1979 and climbed to number 20 on the Billboard 200. This album featured their inaugural Top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'", which peaked at number 16 and significantly increased radio exposure. The subsequent tour generated revenues exceeding $5 million and led to the expansion of their operational capabilities to include dedicated lighting and trucking services.[6] Their sixth studio effort, Departure, released in March 1980, attained a peak position of number eight on the Billboard 200; its lead single "Any Way You Want It" reached number 23 on the Hot 100 chart.

Following the Departure tour, keyboardist Gregg Rolie departed to prioritize family commitments and pursue solo work.[7] Stevie "Keys" Roseman contributed one studio track on the live album Captured. On Rolie’s recommendation, pianist Jonathan Cain from The Babys joined as his successor; Cain’s synthesizer work replaced Rolie’s organ playing, representing a significant progression in the band’s musical direction.

1981–1983: Peak Success with Escape and Frontiers

With the addition of keyboardist Jonathan Cain, Journey produced their seventh album, Escape, which was released in July 1981. This record marked their highest commercial achievement, reaching number one on the US charts and spawning hit tracks such as "Who's Crying Now", "Still They Ride", "Open Arms", and "Don't Stop Believin'".

The band embarked on a significant tour starting June 12, 1981, featuring supporting acts like Billy Squier and Loverboy. Notably, they served as the opening act for the Rolling Stones at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia on September 25. MTV captured one of their sold-out concerts at The Summit in Houston on November 6, which drew an audience exceeding 20,000; this performance was later made available on DVD. Journey also broke new ground by integrating large video screens into their live shows, enhancing the experience for stadium-sized crowds.

Following the tour and formal incorporation of the band along with establishing a fan club named "Journey Force," they contributed two tracks—"Only Solutions" and "1990s Theme"—to the 1982 Disney movie Tron. During this period, Neal Schon collaborated with Jan Hammer. The group continued touring across North America and Japan throughout 1982.

Midway through their 1982 tour, Journey recorded their eighth studio album, Frontiers, which debuted in February 1983. This album became their second-best seller, moving over six million units, reaching number two on the Billboard chart, and featuring popular singles such as "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)", "Faithfully", "Send Her My Love", and "After the Fall".

The Frontiers tour kicked off in Japan before continuing across North America with Bryan Adams as the opening act. NFL Films produced a documentary titled Frontiers and Beyond, highlighting performances at JFK Stadium that attracted crowds exceeding 80,000 attendees.

1984–1987: Raised on Radio Era and Lineup Changes

Following the conclusion of the Frontiers tour, lead vocalist Steve Perry and guitarist Neal Schon each explored solo careers. Perry launched his first solo album, Street Talk, in 1984 under the guidance of manager Herbie Herbert. Meanwhile, Schon briefly toured with the supergroup HSAS to support their only album Through the Fire.

Despite speculation about disbandment after property sales in late 1984, Schon confirmed Journey’s intention to continue. After a discussion between Cain and Perry, the band returned to Fantasy Studios toward the end of 1985 to work on their ninth studio project, Raised on Radio, with Perry taking on production duties.

During recording, conflicts arose when Herbert and Perry decided to remove bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith; Valory later claimed his departure was voluntary. The sessions were completed with bassists Randy Jackson (who would later become an American Idol judge) and Bob Glaub, alongside drummer Larrie Londin. Released in May 1986, Raised on Radio peaked at number four on Billboard charts but did not match the commercial success of earlier albums. It yielded five singles including the top-10 hit "Be Good to Yourself".

The accompanying Raised on Radio tour began in August 1986 with sold-out venues across the United States before concluding in Anchorage in early 1987. Supporting bands included Honeymoon Suite, The Outfield, and Glass Tiger. Randy Jackson (bass) and Mike Baird (drums) joined for live performances. MTV produced a documentary titled Raised on Radio, featuring interviews with band members.

After the tour ended, mounting tensions between Perry, other band members, and manager Herbert led to Perry stepping back due to vocal health concerns. Herbert had arranged additional concerts that Perry declined to perform, culminating in his official departure from Journey.

1987–1995: Period of Inactivity

After completing their Raised on Radio tour in 1987, the band went on a break. In November 1988, Columbia Records issued the Greatest Hits collection, which achieved sales exceeding 15 million copies and consistently sold between 500,000 and 1 million copies each year thereafter. This compilation remained on the Billboard charts for an impressive span of 750 weeks, lasting until 2008.

Throughout this hiatus, Perry stepped away from public appearances, while Schon and Cain collaborated with musicians such as Jimmy Barnes and Michael Bolton. In 1988, they joined forces with Cain's former bandmates John Waite and Ricky Phillips, along with drummer Deen Castronovo, to establish the supergroup Bad English, which released two albums in 1989 and 1991. Meanwhile, Steve Smith concentrated on jazz endeavors with groups like Vital Information and Steps Ahead, and also formed The Storm alongside Ross Valory, original Journey keyboardist Gregg Rolie, vocalist Kevin Chalfant, guitarist Josh Ramos, and manager Herbie Herbert.

On November 3, 1991, Schon, Cain, and Perry reunited to perform "Faithfully" and "Lights" at the Bill Graham tribute event Laughter, Love & Music. Later, in October 1993, several band members came together for a private show at Bimbo's in San Francisco featuring Kevin Chalfant as lead singer.

Following the breakup of Bad English in 1991, Schon and Castronovo created the glam metal group Hardline, producing one studio album before Castronovo left. Neal joined Paul Rodgers for live shows in 1993 alongside Castronovo. Steve Perry released his sophomore solo album For the Love of Strange Medicine in 1994 and embarked on a North American tour; however, fans noticed significant changes in his vocal quality compared to earlier performances.

1995–1997: Reunion and Release of Trial by Fire

Steve Perry agreed to rejoin Journey only if there was a change in management from Herbie Herbert. Consequently, in October 1995, the band appointed Irving Azoff, renowned for managing the Eagles. Both Steve Smith and Ross Valory returned to the lineup as the group commenced writing and rehearsing new songs that same month.

Work on their tenth studio album, Trial by Fire, began in early 1996 at The Site, Wildhorse Studio, and Ocean Way Recorders with producer Kevin Shirley. Upon its late October release, the album reached number three on the Billboard album charts. The lead single "When You Love a Woman" climbed to number 12 on the Billboard charts and secured a Grammy nomination in 1997 for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. Additionally, the album yielded three mainstream rock hits within the top 40: "Message of Love" (No. 18), "Can't Tame the Lion" (No. 33), and "If He Should Break Your Heart" (No. 38).

Touring plans were interrupted when Perry developed a degenerative bone condition following an injury in August 1996 that necessitated hip-replacement surgery—an operation he initially resisted—causing delays to the album’s promotion.

After releasing Trial by Fire, Journey took a break to focus on individual projects while awaiting Perry’s decision regarding touring commitments. Schon unveiled his solo record Electric World in 1997 and subsequently formed Abraxas Pool with former Journey members as well as alumni from Santana. Cain offered two solo albums during this period: Body Language (1997) and For A Lifetime (1998).

1998–2007: Changes in Lead Vocals and Drums, Releases of Arrival and Generations

After the reunion album, Perry exited Journey, freeing himself from contractual obligations and entering a semi-retirement phase. Steve Smith also left the group to resume his focus on jazz music. To fill the drummer position, the band brought in Deen Castronovo, who had previously collaborated with Schon and Cain in Bad English. Following auditions that included candidates such as Geoff Tate and Kevin Chalfant, Journey selected Steve Augeri, formerly associated with Tyketto and Tall Stories. The band contributed the track "Remember Me" to the 1998 film Armageddon.

After rehearsing with Augeri and Castronovo, Journey performed four shows in Japan before commencing the Vacation's Over tour across the U.S. from October through December 1998, followed by additional dates in 1999.

Between March and August 2000, Journey recorded Arrival under the production of Kevin Shirley. The album was initially released in Japan and subsequently in North America in 2001. It reached number 56 on the Billboard charts but did not meet commercial expectations. The lead single "All the Way" failed to significantly improve sales, resulting in Sony dropping the band from its roster. To support the album, Journey toured extensively throughout Latin America, the United States, and Europe.

In response to the September 11 attacks, Journey took part in a significant fundraising event in October 2001 that raised nearly $1 million.

The band's activity decreased in 2002 as Schon formed Planet Us with Castronovo and other musicians; this project dissolved by 2004. Meanwhile, Cain released a solo album. During 2001–2002, Journey issued a four-track EP titled Red 13 through their own label, Journey Music. They played a single club show to promote the EP before embarking on a U.S. tour from May to August 2003, which included co-headlining with Styx and REO Speedwagon during Classic Rock's Main Event. Further touring occurred in summer 2004, including participation in a Caribbean cruise tour alongside REO Speedwagon and Styx.

In 2005, members of Journey were honored with induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, alongside former members such as Perry. Valory remarked that Perry appeared to be in good health during the ceremony.

Following this accolade, Journey produced their twelfth studio album, Generations, with Kevin Elson returning as producer. Released first in Europe in August and later in North America in October 2005, it peaked at number 170 on Billboard charts. To promote this release and celebrate their 30th anniversary, the band embarked on a tour from June through October featuring extended three-hour performances combining classic hits with new songs.

In 2006, Journey toured Europe and joined Def Leppard for a North American tour. However, Augeri encountered criticism due to declining vocal performance amid allegations of using backing tracks—a claim that former manager Herbie Herbert later confirmed as accurate. Augeri himself stated he was legally unable to confirm or deny these accusations. He ultimately resigned mid-tour after his final show on July 4.

Jeff Scott Soto of Talisman was promptly recruited as lead vocalist, making his debut on July 7. Due to positive reception, the tour was extended through November. Soto was officially named lead singer in December 2006 but left the band by June 2007 following tours across Europe and the U.S., with Schon indicating that plans for their next direction were underway.

2007–2019: Arnel Pineda Joins as Lead Vocalist, Releases of Revelation and Eclipse

Following Steve Augeri's exit, Neal Schon utilized YouTube to find a new frontman. Jeremey Hunsicker, from the Journey tribute band Frontiers, auditioned and co-wrote "Never Walk Away," which later appeared on the Revelation record; however, due to conflicts with Schon, he was not retained. Subsequently, Schon came across Filipino vocalist Arnel Pineda performing "Faithfully" with The Zoo. Impressed by Pineda's talent, Schon invited him for a two-day audition and officially announced him as Journey’s lead singer on December 5, 2007.

Pineda’s addition sparked some racially motivated criticism among certain fans, which keyboardist Jonathan Cain addressed by highlighting the band’s global nature.

In 2007, "Don't Stop Believin'" experienced a resurgence in popularity after its feature in the finale of The Sopranos, leading to a significant increase in digital sales.

Journey recorded the Revelation album with Pineda in late 2007; it was released on June 3, 2008, debuting at number five on the Billboard charts with over 196,000 copies sold within two weeks and maintaining a position in the top 20 for six consecutive weeks. The single "After All These Years" reached number nine on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart.

Pineda's first live performance with Journey took place on February 21, 2008, before an audience of 20,000 in Chile. The Revelation tour commenced in the United Kingdom in June and spanned North America, Asia, Europe, and South America before concluding in October. This tour generated over $35 million in revenue during 2008. On December 18 of that year, the RIAA awarded Revelation platinum certification.

The band appeared at the Super Bowl XLIII pregame event on February 1, 2009. The Revelation tour resumed in May and wrapped up in October of the same year. A concert held in Manila before 30,000 attendees was recorded and released as the live album Live in Manila. In 2009, "Don't Stop Believin'" became the highest-selling pre-2000 track on iTunes.

In 2010, Journey recorded their album Eclipse, which was released on May 24, 2011; it debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200 chart. That June, they toured the UK alongside Foreigner and Styx. In October, Journey received Billboard’s "Legend of Live Award" at their Touring Awards ceremony. Later that November, they released Greatest Hits 2.

Drummer Deen Castronovo was arrested following a domestic incident in June 2015 and subsequently dismissed from the band by August. Omar Hakim stepped in as drummer for the remainder of that year's tour. Steve Smith returned to the drummer position in 2016, reuniting much of Journey's classic lineup except for Steve Perry; their tour that year included performances with Dave Mason and The Doobie Brothers.

Journey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April 2017. Members from their debut era through their initial disbandment were honored with the exception of George Tickner; Arnel Pineda performed as a stand-in for Steve Perry.

During their North American tour with Def Leppard in 2018, Journey led the Billboard Hot Tours List by grossing over $30 million across seventeen shows.

2020–2024: Disputed lineup shifts, legal battles, and Freedom

On March 3, 2020, Schon and Cain declared the dismissal of Smith and Valory, subsequently filing a lawsuit accusing them of an attempted "corporate coup d'état" seeking damages exceeding $10 million. The legal action alleged that Smith and Valory endeavored to "seize control of Nightmare Productions," mistakenly believing it held ownership of the Journey trademark to secure ongoing revenue after their departure from the group. Backed by Perry and former manager Herbie Herbert, Valory and Smith challenged their terminations. Court documents revealed that Perry received payment as a band member despite not participating in performances. Schon and Cain openly expressed their loss of trust in Smith and Valory. Valory responded with a countersuit regarding trademark rights, emphasizing that Elmo Partners had only licensed the Journey name from 1985 until 1994, when Nightmare Productions terminated the agreement. He also sought legal safeguards against Schon’s use of Journey-like branding for his solo endeavors. An amicable resolution was reached on April 1, 2021. In May of that year, Schon and Cain announced Randy Jackson would return on bass, taking over from Valory, with Narada Michael Walden stepping in as drummer in place of Smith.

By June 2020, Schon confirmed progress on a new album featuring Jackson and Walden, with plans to release fresh material in early 2021. The single "The Way We Used to Be" debuted on June 24, 2021.

In July 2021, Deen Castronovo rejoined as an additional drummer. Due to Jackson undergoing back surgery, Marco Mendoza temporarily filled in on bass but was eventually replaced by Todd Jensen to enhance group cohesion.

On February 16, 2022, Journey announced their fifteenth studio album titled Freedom, which was released on July 8, 2022. The album’s singles—"You Got the Best of Me," "Let It Rain," "Don't Give Up on Us," and "United We Stand"—were rolled out between April and July of that year.

By March 2022, Cain confirmed that both Walden and Jackson had departed owing to health concerns; however, both musicians appeared on Freedom. Schon referred to them as still being "musical members" and remained open to future collaborations. He also left the door open for potential reunions with former members Perry and Rolie in celebration of the band’s 50th anniversary.

In September 2022, Perry initiated a lawsuit against Schon and Cain concerning song trademark registrations but withdrew the case by January 2023. Meanwhile, in November 2022, Schon filed suit against Cain over a dispute involving credit card charges.

Journey issued their fifth live album, Live in Concert at Lollapalooza, in December 2022.

Later that month, Schon sent a cease-and-desist letter to Cain after he performed "Don't Stop Believin'" at an event supporting Donald Trump, asserting that Cain was unauthorized to use Journey’s name for political purposes.

From 2023 through early 2024, Journey toured alongside Toto before embarking on a North American tour with Def Leppard during the summer of 2024. In July 2024, Cain filed another lawsuit against Schon alleging improper use of the band’s credit cards, which resulted in the cancellation of scheduled UK and Ireland tour dates.

On September 22, 2024, lead vocalist Arnel Pineda addressed criticism following a Rock in Rio performance by inviting fans to vote him out if one million users commented "Go" on his social media post.

2025–present: Final tour announcement

On October 10, 2025, it was declared that Jonathan Cain would be leaving the group following a concluding tour, with Neal Schon affirming that Journey would proceed without him. The band subsequently announced the North American segment of their farewell tour, titled the Final Frontier Tour, scheduled to commence in February 2026.

Band members

Current

  • Neal Schon – lead guitar, backing vocals (1973–1987, 1991, 1995–present)
  • Jonathan Cain – keyboards, piano, backing vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica (1980–1987, 1991, 1995–present)
  • Deen Castronovo – drums, backing and lead vocals (1998–2015, 2021–present)
  • Arnel Pineda – lead vocals (2007–present)
  • Jason Derlatka – keyboards, backing and lead vocals (2020–present)
  • Todd Jensen – bass, backing vocals (2021–present)

In popular culture

The 2013 film Don't Stop Believin': Everyman's Journey, directed by Ramona S. Diaz, documents how Arnel Pineda was discovered and became part of Journey. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, "Don't Stop Believin'" emerged as a symbol of hope for patients discharged from New York Presbyterian Queens Hospital and Henry Ford Health System after recovery. On August 21, 2021, Journey delivered a live performance of the song at New York’s "We Love NYC: The Homecoming Concert," which celebrated the city's revival following the pandemic.

Studio albums

See also

  1. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  2. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  3. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  4. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  5. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named journey-zone1
  6. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  7. ↑ Flans, "Journey;" Matt Carty's Herbie Herbert Interview.
Retrieved from "https://www.alfawiki.org/index.php?title=Journey_(band)&oldid=80725"