Overview
Journey is an American rock band that formed in San Francisco in 1973. The band’s original members included Neal Schon (guitar), Gregg Rolie (keyboards and vocals), Ross Valory (bass), Aynsley Dunbar (drums), and George Tickner (guitar). Over the years, the band has had several changes in its lineup, with Steve Perry as the most recognizable and successful lead vocalist of the group.
Journey is known for their distinctive sound that blends elements of rock, pop, and progressive music. The band has released several hit singles, including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Any Way You Want It,” “Wheel in the Sky,” and “Open Arms.” With over 75 million records sold worldwide, Journey is one of the best-selling bands of all time.
Advertisment
Journey – By the Numbers
Journey has recorded and performed numerous songs throughout their career. However, they have released 14 studio albums, 4 live albums, 8 compilation albums, and 71 singles. Their most well-known songs include “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Any Way You Want It,” “Faithfully,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” and “Open Arms.”
Variations of Journey
Although there were former members of the band, The Beatles’ core group included Paul, John, George, and Ringo on all studio albums. Over the decade, their sound and subgenre slightly changed.
Pre-Steve Perry Journey
Before Steve Perry joined Journey as their lead vocalist, the band had a different sound and a different lineup. The original members of the band included Neal Schon (guitar), Gregg Rolie (keyboards and vocals), Ross Valory (bass), Aynsley Dunbar (drums), and George Tickner (guitar).
In their early years, Journey’s sound was rooted in progressive rock, with elements of jazz fusion and hard rock. Their first three albums, “Journey” (1975), “Look into the Future” (1976), and “Next” (1977), showcased the band’s instrumental prowess and experimentation.
Journey (Popular)
Journey’s early albums had some success, but it wasn’t until the release of their fourth album, “Infinity” (1978), that the band achieved mainstream success. On “Infinity,” Journey began to incorporate more radio-friendly elements into their music, and the album produced the hit single “Wheel in the Sky.”
After the release of “Infinity,” Journey continued to evolve their sound, incorporating more pop and arena rock elements. The band had some lineup changes, with Steve Perry replacing Gregg Rolie as the lead vocalist on their fifth album, “Departure” (1980). With Perry on board, Journey became known for their power ballads and soaring, anthemic rock songs.
Steve Augeri Journey
Steve Augeri joined Journey as the band’s lead vocalist in 1998, following the departure of Steve Perry. Augeri’s first album with the band was “Arrival,” which was released in 2001. The album featured the hit single “All the Way,” which was a top 30 hit on the adult contemporary chart.
During Augeri’s tenure as the lead vocalist, Journey continued to tour extensively, playing shows all around the world. In 2005, they released their first live album with Augeri on vocals, “Live in Houston 1981: The Escape Tour.”
Journey’s next studio album with Augeri, “Generations,” was released in 2005. The album featured a mix of classic Journey-style rock songs and more experimental tracks. Although the album received mixed reviews, it peaked at number 170 on the Billboard 200 chart.
In 2006, Augeri was forced to leave the band due to a throat infection. He was temporarily replaced by Jeff Scott Soto and then by Arnel Pineda in 2007. Although Augeri’s time in Journey was relatively short, he helped to keep the band’s music alive and introduced Journey to a new generation of fans during his tenure.
Arnel Pineda Journey
Arnel Pineda is a Filipino singer who joined Journey as their lead vocalist in 2007, replacing Jeff Scott Soto, who had replaced Steve Augeri. Pineda was discovered by Journey’s guitarist Neal Schon on YouTube, where he had posted videos of himself singing Journey covers.
Pineda’s first album with Journey was “Revelation,” which was released in 2008. The album featured re-recorded versions of some of Journey’s greatest hits, as well as several new songs. “Revelation” debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 chart, making it Journey’s highest-charting album since “Trial by Fire” in 1996.
Since joining Journey, Pineda has helped the band to maintain their popularity and continue to tour extensively. He has also recorded several albums with the band, including “Eclipse” (2011) and “Generations 2” (2020).
Pineda’s voice has been praised for its similarity to that of former Journey lead singer Steve Perry. He has been credited with helping to keep Journey’s music alive and bringing it to a new generation of fans.
Advertisment
Suggested Music Sample of Journey
Although Journey has a very manageable discography, we can provide you with a sample size to form an accurate opinion on the group.
Infinity (1978)
Infinity is the album that brought Journey to the mainstream. This album transitioned from prog rock and sprinkled in some rock ballads. “Lights”, “Wheel in the Sky”, and “Patiently” are regulars on your classic rock station (aka: Classic Rock Spotify).
Escape (1981)
If you think of Journey, you likely think of the Escape album, tour, and most importantly – “Don’t Stop Believin'”. This album has sold over 10 million copies and songs from the album have sampled in karaoke bars at even higher numbers.
Arrival (2001)
Journey brought back a new face in 2001 and produced the Arrival album. Although the classic albums might be “better”, this album is a great gauge to see if you want to come along with them into the future – or just prefer the classics.
Ranking the Best Journey Album
Journey has released a total of 15 studio albums starting in 1975 and their latest coming in February 2022. The band has also released highly successful live albums (Captured & Live in Houston 1981) along with compilations.
(updated 1/17/24)
Eric's Choice
Todd's Choice
Advertisment
Ranking the Best Journey Song
Journey has released over 50 singles and nearly 30 music videos. They had their fair share of hits and songs worthy of the title – the greatest Journey song. Although we won’t be counting the various lead singers renditions of different songs, there are some serious contenders to be the greatest song. My guess is classic Steve Perry might be the one belting vocals on it.
Eric's Choice
Todd's Choice
Journey Music Videos
"Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)"
Ghost instruments in a weird abandoned warehouse – count me in. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is not only a classic song that everyone wants to sing along with, we can all play our instruments along with the band.
"Faithfully"
Probably the most powerful ballad by the group, this music video takes you on the tour with Journey and showcases the struggle by the band when it comes to being on the road.
"Girl Can't Help It"
If you want some 80s Journey, here is the best look. A sold out stadium show, Steve wearing a crazy red jacket, and American Idol’s Randy Jackson playing bass.
Advertisment
Documentaries
Don't Stop Believin': Everyman's Journey (2013)
Replacing Steve Perry in the iconic group was no easy task. The documentary about Arnel Pineda and how he went from YouTube to the front man for Journey is certainly worth making a documentary about.
Frontiers & Beyond! (1983)
Journey “Frontiers & Beyond” is a fact-based documentary covering the rock groups “Frontiers” tour across the USA. See Neal Schon, Steve Perry, and Jonathan Cain as they live the life of popular rock stars.
Behind the Music (2001)
The popular VH1 “Behind the Music” explores the ups and downs of Journey, revealing their struggles, successes, and transformative moments in the music industry.
Concerts & Television Appearances
Escape Tour (1981)
Journey was it in 1981. Music videos were still pretty primitive – much like those filmed during the Escape Tour. Although not one single date, this tour and collection of videos/songs were circulated over the MTV airwaves and helped Journey climb to fame.
Live in Las Vegas (2001)
The Arrival album was recorded and promoted with a Journey DVD featuring new lead singer Steve Augeri. Not only did they sing the classics, they did a tremendous job singing the “new stuff” – making them worthy of hits.
Hall of Fame (2017)
It doesn’t get better than being inducted in to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – and in 2017 – Journey took to the stage. Yes, the question you are asking did not come true. Steve Perry did a classy thing and let Arnel – the current singer – lead the band.
Favorite Journey Podcasts
The Todcast Podcast
Music Ranked! creator Eric talks about one of his favorite bands – Journey. This early podcast recording dives into Eric and Todd’s favorite songs, albums, memories, and more. This podcast was the predecessor to what you see on the site right now.
Talk is Jericho
Journey’s founding guitarist Neal Schon shares anecdotes about almost forming a band with The Who’s John Entwistle, a spontaneous trip to see Van Halen, and reflects on the band’s 50th Anniversary, discussing the origins with Santana and plans for the anniversary tour.
Stand By Your Band
Journey themed podcasts or even episodes were hard to find. Episode 15 of Stand By Your Band did a pretty good job discussing the group as a whole. There was plenty of banter and comedy in the podcast, but enough Journey to make it worthwhile.
Top Rated Journey Books
Don't Stop Believin': The Untold Story of Journey
Journey, one of America’s most successful melodic rock bands with over 75 million record sales, experiences a resurgence in acclaim and exposure, propelled by the phenomenal success of “Don’t Stop Believin'”—now the most downloaded song of all time—unveiling their extensive history in this definitive biography, encompassing highs and lows, heartache, creativity, and behind-the-scenes dynamics throughout their entire career.
Journey: Worlds Apart
“Journey: Worlds Apart” intricately explores the legendary band’s evolution, from their origins in Santana to global fame with iconic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’.” With over 100 million worldwide album sales, the book delves into the dynamics shaped by Steve Perry’s vocals, Neal Schon’s guitar work, and challenges faced, providing an intimate behind-the-scenes journey through each era, album, and tour, offering fans an exclusive look into Journey’s enduring legacy as arena rockers to Rock and Roll Hall of Famers.
STEVE PERRY - A singer's journey
Steve Perry, possessing one of the finest voices globally, recounts his journey as the lead singer of Journey, delving into the complexities of absolute talent, the duality of blessing and torture, and the true essence of success marked by sweat, blood, and tears in this revealing biography—a close examination of the remarkable career of ‘The Voice.
Advertisment
Best Journey Websites
Although there are plenty of wiki articles, social media accounts, and news blogs – we’ve put together some of the better Journey-centric websites. Granted, they are all official websites from members (or former members) of the band. These websites are primarily made to hype merchandise and upcoming concerts, but you do see some great photography and an occasional story.
Our Memories of Journey
Your memories of Journey can be vastly different based on your taste in music and the first time you heard Steve Perry (or one of the lead singers). Most people have heard “Don’t Stop Believin'”, but I sure hope your introduction to the group wasn’t at a karaoke bar with your drunk best friend trying to impress the locals.
Backstory of Journey and Me
If you asked the majority of my friends “Who is Eric Hersey’s favorite band?“, many would probably say Journey. They may ...
Where Does Journey Rank?
It’s not easy to be a household name. When you mention Journey, nearly everyone can name a classic song and probably the lead singer (Steve Perry). Not to mention, they had their own Atari game! This is truly the measure of the greats.
Although it will vary from person to person. Depending on if you value the entertainment and popularity of a great band – or prefer the art – Journey is probably not #1 in both. They’ve put out tons of classic hits that can’t be denied, thus giving them a favorable score in many music ranking formulas.
Advertisment
You Might Also Like these Related Artists
With the exception of Steve Perry, the other members of Journey didn’t venture off into successful solo careers. Depending on what “Journey” you prefer, you could find yourself enjoying some Santana (Neal Schon and Gregg Rolie). Most likely you enjoy that 80s melodic Journey, so we have some different suggestions for you.
Def Leppard
Def Leppard and Journey share a similarity in their music styles, characterized by melodic rock with anthemic choruses, harmonized vocals, and a blend of hard rock elements, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with fans of both bands.
Santana
Santana and Journey is rooted in their shared history involving key personnel – Neal Schon. Neal, guitarist for Journey, initially rose to prominence as a young musician in Santana.
Steve Perry
If you like Journey, you will absolutely like Steve Perry. I mean, his solo albums are just extensions of the signature sound you remember from the 80s.