Journey is an American rock band formed in San Francisco in 1973 by former members of Santana and Frumious Bandersnatch. The band has enjoyed worldwide success, particularly during their peak in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Journey Career Highlights
1973 Journey is formed by Neal Schon (guitar), Gregg Rolie (keyboards/vocals), Ross Valory (bass), George Tickner (rhythm guitar), and Prairie Prince (drums) former members of Santana the band of Carlos Santana.
1975 Prairie Prince leaves and is replaced by Aynsley Dunbar. The band releases its self-titled debut album, "Journey."
1978 Steve Perry joins the band as lead vocalist, bringing a more mainstream rock and pop sound.
1978-1981 Releases a string of successful albums: "Infinity" (1978), "Evolution" (1979), and "Departure" (1980).
1981 The band releases "Escape” which becomes their most successful album, featuring hits like "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Open Arms."
1983 "Frontiers" is released, solidifying their status as rock legends.
1986 Steve Perry leaves the band, marking the end of the classic lineup.
1996 Perry rejoins Journey, and the band releases "Trial by Fire” which is well-received but not followed by a tour due to Perry's health issues.
2007 Arnel Pineda joins the band as lead vocalist, revitalizing their live performances and recording new material.
2017 Journey is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Journey Band Members
Current Members
Neal Schon – guitar, backing vocals (1973–present)
Jonathan Cain – keyboards, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1980–present)
Arnel Pineda – lead vocals (2007–present)
Jason Derlatka – keyboards, backing vocals (2020–present)
Deen Castronovo – drums, backing vocals (1998–2015, 2021–present)
Todd Jensen – bass (2021–present)
Former Members
Steve Perry – lead vocals (1977–1987, 1995–1998)
Gregg Rolie – keyboards, lead vocals (1973–1980)
Ross Valory – bass (1973–1985, 1995–2020)
Steve Smith – drums (1978–1985, 1995–1998, 2015–2020)
Aynsley Dunbar – drums (1974–1978) who once played with David Bowie
George Tickner – rhythm guitar (1973–1975)
Jeff Scott Soto – lead vocals (2006–2007)
Journey Grammy Awards
Journey have been nominated once for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for "When You Love a Woman" in 1997.
Three Most Famous Journey Songs
1. "Don't Stop Believin'“ Released in 1981 on the "Escape" album, this song has become an anthem and is one of the best-selling digital tracks of the 20th century.
2. "Faithfully” A power ballad from the 1983 album "Frontiers”.
3. "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” Another hit from "Frontiers” known for its powerful riff and iconic music video.
Journey Quotes
Steve Perry on music
I don't want to be a wedding singer. I want to make great records."
Neal Schon on Journey's legacy
Journey will always be about great music and a connection with our fans."
Journey Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Steve Perry's Departure: The tension within the band and Steve Perry's health issues led to his departure in 1987 and again in 1998, creating a significant impact on the band's dynamics.
- Ross Valory and Steve Smith's Lawsuit: In 2020, founding member Ross Valory and long-time drummer Steve Smith were fired and subsequently sued by Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain over a business dispute.
- Arnel Pineda's Discovery: Arnel Pineda was discovered by Neal Schon on YouTube, where Pineda's covers of Journey songs caught Schon's attention. Pineda's addition to the band marked a new era and rejuvenated Journey's live performances.
- "Don't Stop Believin'" in Pop Culture: The song gained renewed popularity after being featured in the final episode of "The Sopranos" and the TV show "Glee” making it a cross-generational hit.
- Charity Work: Journey has been involved in numerous charitable activities.
Journey’s Legacy
Journey's music continues to be a staple on classic rock radio and in popular culture.
Journey ratings
