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Journey Frontman Arnel Pineda on the Band’s New Record, Dreams of a Steve Perry Reunion
- By Andy Greene
Andy Greene
In early 2020, Journey frontman Arnel Pineda flew back to his native Manila after playing a corporate gig in Texas. He was gearing up for a big year in which Journey would cut their first new record since 2011’s Eclipse and play amphitheaters all over North America with the Pretenders.
The pandemic changed all that and he’s been in Manila ever since, but Journey still found a way to work remotely on the record. It’s their first full-length since parting ways with drummer Steve Smith and bassist Ross Valory. They were replaced by bassist Randy Jackson (who briefly toured and recorded with Journey in 1986–87) and drummer Narada Michael Walden, who’s doubling as the album’s producer.
We checked in with Pineda via Zoom to talk about his lockdown life in Manila, the in-progress Journey record, the upcoming biopic about his life, and why he still dreams about a Journey reunion with Steve Perry.
How are things going? Good. I arrived here in Manila last year just a week and a half before the lockdown began. I was lucky. Otherwise, I would have been stuck in America for six months before they let me back.
This must be the longest stretch of time you’ve been home since you joined Journey in 2007. Yeah. This is the longest. I like it because I got to spend a lot of time with family and the kids and more time with myself and my wife. There are other things I would rather do than tour, so I got the chance to be here. In a negative way, it’s quite bad. The survival here is a day-to-day deal. I’m the one that goes out a lot. I’m the one that goes to the market and the grocery to refill our food stocks.
You wonder if you have the virus every day. There’s a lot of paranoia going around. It’s like what is happening in America.
Do you miss playing live? Yeah. I especially miss the energy and the adrenaline of doing it. I’m delivering on the legacy that the Voice [Steve Perry] has left behind. Especially now that he formally passed the torch to me in 2017 [at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction], he made that known and he was very gracious. It was very kind of him. It was so generous of him to say that in public. It was really an honor.
What was it like to finally meet Steve after all these years? I posted on Instagram that I had waited 35 years for that. It was dreamy. I couldn’t believe I met him since he’s very reclusive and he avoids people. He didn’t want to get interviewed, at least until he released his new record [ Traces ] and then suddenly he was out there, going to radio stations and accepting interviews.
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I was really surprised that he agreed to meet me. It’s one of the most special things that happened in my life. He’s one of my heroes when it comes to singing. I remember back in the Eighties, I would sleep on the bus with my Walkman on in my ears as his voice sang all these favorite songs from Journey.
I really dug his new record. It was amazing. I’ve been teasing Jonathan [Cain] and Neal [Schon]. “Why don’t you invite Steve Perry over for a tour?” Oh, my God. I never saw them back in the Eighties. I was just a young kid in Manila, just playing around, with no chance of going to the States and seeing their show, but they were one of my favorite bands.
I’ve spoken to Steve a bunch of times in the past few years. We even talked just a few weeks ago. Oh, my God!
Judging by our talks, I’m extremely confident that he’s happy to leave the Journey baton with you. That’s even more pressure I’m getting, hearing this from you. At the same time, I’m truly honored. But I’m not losing [the hope] that one day he’ll join the band for two or three songs. It would be one of the highlights of my life if that happens.
It would almost be on the scale of Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd re-forming at this point. My God. It would be the same thing for me with Led Zeppelin because I haven’t seen them either, or Pink Floyd. I wish they would be complete again. It’s like completing a circle, being back up onstage again.
Do you think this long break has been good for your singing voice? Has it given you time to rest the muscle? I think so. At the same time, I can’t help but sing four or five songs here every day. The problem with the voice is that it changes as you grow older. It’s like athletes. They reach their peak on their 30th birthday. As they approach 31 or 32, it starts to change. It’s the same with my voice. I just want to make sure I can be of use to the band until they decide to throw the towel in.
Those are hard songs to sing for any singer. You guys go out and do 60 straight concerts in the summer and you need to hit the high notes on “Faithfully” every single time. That would be hard for anyone at any age. We’ll do five or six shows a week. I’m just quite amazed with myself a little. Somehow I was able to take it for 13 years. Let’s see what’s going to happen in the coming days. We’re on to finishing the album. We finished six songs so far. There’s talk of going out somewhere first, maybe Las Vegas for a residency. We don’t know yet. We haven’t decided. Just to break the ice between the new members and us.
You have six songs totally done? Yeah. And maybe seven songs to go.
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Are these ballads? Rockers? For now, we’re doing the rocker songs first, not the ballads. I think the seven songs they’re working on, they’re working on something huge, like how you’ve known Journey doing ballads. It’s between [1981’s ] “Mother, Father” and [1978’s] “Winds of March.” We’re working on that song. We’ll see what happens. I’m waiting for them to send me the demos so that we can record it next week.
Working remotely like this must have been an adjustment. Normally, you’d be in the room together. I know. It’s quite hard right now. I have a few melody ideas that I’m into and want to share with them, but you can’t right now because of what is happening. I just have to listen to it and learn it. We use Zoom to record and I turn on my laptop and go into Logic Pro. They get ahold of it. If there’s something I want to change, I tell them. But it’s all pretty much done and I just record with them.
Are you doing the vocals on your laptop? Yeah. I’ll show you [ turns camera around and shows a microphone plugged into a computer in front of soundproofing foam ]. I share my computer, like mirroring. They can see what’s happening in my laptop. It allows them to hack it for a moment and then they can hear it. It happens in real time.
There’s no lag. I can hear that right now while we talk. It’s like you’re in the next room and you’re actually more than 8,000 miles away. Yeah. Thank God for the technology.
Do you think the album will come out this year? I think so. Neal thinks so. He can’t wait to release it before we do a full-on tour.
How do things sound different now that Randy Jackson and Narada Michael Walden are in the band? It’s somewhat like the sound back in the Eighties when Randy Jackson joined the band for the Raised on Radio album. It’s kind of like that, but it’s also more updated. Narada is producing my vocals and mentoring me on how to do it. He’s telling me to sing it this way and that way. It’s amazing. I’m learning a lot from Narada. It’s truly an honor and I appreciate him for doing so. It’s amazing.
Has the band even been in the same room yet? Have you met Randy and Narada in person? Right now, it’s just been virtual. It’s tough. I wanted to do it. I keep telling Neal, “If only I had been there, we would have done this in two months. Sorry it’s taking so long.” But with all these health protocols where you need to quarantine for two weeks, and then I come back and I’d be quarantined for another two weeks before I can join my family. It’s too much of a hassle, so we decided to do it this way even though Neal isn’t too happy about it. He wants it the old, classic way of making an album.
Moving on here, what’s the status of the movie about your life? It’s going to happen. I think they’re gonna start. Some people from Warner will start coming here. I think maybe with [ Crazy Rich Asians director] Jon Chu and [ Joker and The Fighter screenwriter] Scott Silver. They might come here to audition actors and actresses that will take part in my biopic.
Are you going to take them around town and show them the places you grew up? Yes. That’s the deal, of course. I want to show them where I grew up, where I was born, where everything happened before this whole magical thing.
Do you think the story will start in your childhood and show all your early bands and struggles and focus on the pre-Journey period? I think so, yeah. That’s the plan. I’ve spoken many times with Scott Silver. What’s interesting about my story is that I’ve survived two coup attempts here in the Philippines before I went to Hong Kong for 10 years. I don’t know he if plans to tell what happened to me in Hong Kong, but I had 10 years there. He might focus on my love story with my wife now.
I can see the grand finale in my head. It’ll be you walking onstage in Chile at your first Journey show. You’re nervous and they push you out and you burst into “Separate Ways.” Yeah. I was trying to back out five minutes before. I was like, “Neal, I cannot do this. This is not built for me.” They were like, “No. It’s too late. Get out there and do it.”
It was the turning point of your life. Everything is either before that moment or after that moment. You should tell Scott Silver about this idea. I’ve been implying it to him that we should end everything in Chile. And I remember when my wife decided to join me on tour in 2011. We were playing to a 30,000 crowd that night. I was telling my wife, “Remember Hard Rock Cafe when there were only three tables? Now it’s 30,000 people.” It was just unbelievable. It doesn’t get old to me. It’s still so surreal and bizarre.
I saw you at Citi Field with Fleetwood Mac and Madison Square Garden with Def Leppard. I could tell you were still having a blast. It’s still unbelievable. I’m just so blessed. I can’t thank them enough, especially Neal Schon. He was the one that was really sold that I am the one since 2007. But then again, I still think, “If only they could bring back Steve Perry.” You know what I mean?
I do, but if he came back, that would mean … I know, but I miss them so much together. Every now and then, I watch their videos together. It’s always them with Steve Perry that I watch. I mean, no offense to Adam Lambert. He’s an amazing performer and he has an amazing voice, but I still watch the old [Queen] ones with Freddie Mercury. That’s why when people say things like “No Perry, No Journey,” I understand it. Where I come from, we’re so influenced by Western music. We loved the originals, if you know what I mean.
His return would put you out of a job. That would be OK to me! I’m telling you. That’s how much I adore him and I adore Journey and how much I adore Steve Perry. Back in 2005, I resigned from my job in Hong Kong because I lost my voice due to acid reflux. I was telling my friends back then that my only regret was I lost my voice before I had the chance to sing side-by-side with Steve Perry. I was joking with them, but then a different situation happened. I just wish that one show with him … it would change my life forever. It’s been 30 years now and the band keeps changing my life in ways nobody would ever guess would happen.
Do you miss Ross Valory and Steve Smith now that they’re out of the band? I do, of course. We had a real bond that nobody can deny. [ Sighs ] When the first day came that Steve Smith went back, I could feel that he was trying to feel everything out and observe. When he got the good vibe again, we clicked. Four years with him was very special. And 11 years with Ross was amazing. I cannot ask for anything more. Those friendships I’ll take with me until the end of time.
The group has dealt with a lot of tensions and feuds during your time with them, but you always remain neutral and out of the fray. How do you do that? I try to stay away. It’s like, “Oh, the big boys are fighting.” I’d rather stick to my guns, which is just singing and delivering the legacy with them onstage. When we’re up onstage, I think everyone forgets their differences behind the scenes. That’s my happy place. When they’re having some petty quarrels, I try to stay away. I talk to everybody without having to talk about their differences.
Your White House visit caused a bit of controversy. Do you have any regrets about going there and meeting Trump? I do not. As a Filipino, I am such a big fan of the White House. It’s not about Trump. It’s not about who the president is. It’s the whole history of the White House. I was just amazed. When I went there, I looked at all the pictures of past presidents and how old everything was. And then the table where President Trump was seated was about 100 years old. Who wouldn’t want to see that? Who wouldn’t want to touch that?
His presidential guard was laughing at me because President Trump was talking to the other members [of the band] and I was just mesmerized by the table. I was like, “Wow! This is truly 100 years old?” I’m just a kid from Manila and I was in the White House for the first time, so no regrets. I guess I didn’t even have a chance to apologize to Neal. He must understand. I’m just a kid from Manila that wants to see the White House, in general.
What’s the status of your next solo record? I’m doing it right now. I’m just waiting on a couple of friends that are helping me finish it from the States. Because of the recent banning of some countries from coming in here, we got delayed. I’m expecting them to arrive here at the end of March instead of the end of January. Even my online streaming concert was moved to April 18th. It was supposed to happen in February. To those who want to get a ticket, it’ll be at sanrestreaming.com .
Back to the movie, do you think being on set and watching someone play a younger version of you will be a surreal experience? It will be weird, but it’ll be weirder if I am there portraying myself! [ Laughs ] I will not be able to stand there and look at myself. I don’t really listen to myself singing either. When the documentary Everyman’s Journey came out, I could barely watch it. The premier was in Tribeca. I was like, “Do I really have to watch this and see myself on the big screen?” I was cringing.
Do you think the actor in the movie will actually sing, or will you provide the vocals? I think I’m going to use my voice. Do you remember the Queen movie [ Bohemian Rhapsody ]? Marc Martel did the voice. I think I’m going to do that too.
I can’t wait. Crazy Rich Asians is a great movie. Jon Chu really knows what he’s doing. It’s unbelievable that he took notice of my life and my story and wants to make a movie out of it. It really humbled me.
They should film it in Manila and not somewhere else. It should look authentic. They definitely will. There’s so much to remember, I’m telling you. At one point in my life, I was really on drugs. It quite affected my memory. I need to recover all those things that happened to me when I was young. But I’ve recovered a lot of my childhood memories. Scott Silver is quite happy with what I was able to tell him.
I’m very hopeful that before 2021 ends, you’ll be back onstage with Journey. Me too. I can’t wait to see those smiling faces and that rolling-thunder sound of the audience. It’s quite an adrenaline [rush] when you experience that every night. That’s what keeps you going.
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Arnel Pineda brought plenty of showmanship to Journey's Houston Rodeo night. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
It's still good to be part of Journey. Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey promised that this Houston Rodeo show would not be its last time in H-Town. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey still knows how to make the bright lights seem even brighter. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Arnel Pineda is not Steve Perry. And that's more than all right. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey embraced RodeoHouston's grand stage. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey drew a crowd of 72,000 to NRG Stadium. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey brought plenty of nostalgia — and entertainment — to the Houston Rodeo. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Neal Schon opened the concert with a Jimi Hendrix-inspired “Star Spangled Banner,” leaving no question that the 68-year-old can still shred. Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey made the Houston Rodeo's return seem even more glorious. And fun. Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey is still making fans believe. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey has old stars and almost a new swagger. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey played a number of its now classic hits at the Houston Rodeo. (Photo by F. Carter Smith)
Journey and “New” Lead Singer Arnel Pineda Prove They’re as Good as Ever at Houston Rodeo — Don’t You Dare Stop Believing
When concert tees and cowboy boots mix in perfect harmony.
I f there was ever an anthem appropriate for the return of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” has to be it. Especially for the crowd of 72,000 who mixed Journey concert tees with cowboy boots and enthusiastically sang along to every nostalgia-fueled line on this Thursday night.
The songs made famous by Steve Perry, Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain in the 1970s and 1980s still carry the same energy and emotion with lead singer Arnel Pineda, who joined the band in 2007. Add drummer Deen Castronovo back in the mix — and this Houston Rodeo show was pop-rock nirvana.
Schon opened the concert with a Jimi Hendrix-inspired “Star Spangled Banner,” leaving no question that the 68-year-old can still shred. His 2022 guitar chops are just as dynamic as they were 30-plus years ago.
The band rolled into “Stone In Love” and set the NRG Stadium crowd on fire with “Don’t Stop Believin,” adding “Escape” to the 12 song mix.
Throughout the set, Schon and Cain served as an oral anthologists, giving context to the songs “Lights ” and “Faithfully.”
“We’re going to play a little tune from 1978 about our city by the bay. Get out your phones and light this up like a big Christmas tree,” Schon instructed. A chorus of lights quickly filled NRG. Before “Faithfully,” Cain dedicated the song to the “Guys and gals who live the rodeo life and their families.”
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Pineda channels Steve Perry’s gravel and harmonies, but after 15 years with the band, he’s made the lead singer role his own dancing, jumping and singing throughout the concert. At the end of show, Cain made sure to remind the crowd Pineda was indeed the lead singer, calling him the “Thrilla from Manilla.”
The Philippines-born singer also gets extra style points for donning a brown jacket and matching pants adorned with sequin clusters and colorful high-top kicks.
The mixed generational crowd got many of the favorites they wanted — including “Wheel in the Sky,” “Separate Ways” and “Anyway You Want It” — but there were some like “Lovin’, Touchin’ Squeezin’ ” and “Open Arms,” that didn’t make the Houston Rodeo cut. Regardless, this was classic Journey, high energy and full of memories. And it doesn’t seem like this will be the last Houston stop for the band.
“We’ll be back Houston. We’ll be back,” Pineda promised the cheering crowd before hopping off stage.
Let’s hope it’s soon, because there are fewer songs that illicit more joy than the first few notes of “Don’t Stop Believin.” In that moment, everyone truly is a small-town girl living in a lonely world. That’s the magic of one of rock and roll’s most iconic songs.
And a band that still has it.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Arnel Pineda
Who Is Arnel Pineda?
After a series of unfortunate events in his childhood, Arnel Pineda found success in Asia as the front man for the group The Zoo. In 2007, he was discovered by Journey guitarist Neal Schon, after a series of YouTube videos were posted of him covering American songs, including the famous hit, "Dont Stop Believin'." In December 2007, Pineda became the new lead singer of Journey. His is noted for having a strikingly similar sound to former Journey front man Steve Perry.
Troubled Childhood
Arnel Pineda was born on September 5, 1967, in Sampaloc, Manila, in the Philippines. Throughout his childhood, Pineda endured grave misfortune. When he was just 13 years old, his mother, who was 35 at the time, passed away after a long battle with heart disease. Her medical costs left the family in serious debt, and Pineda's father could no longer provide for Pineda and his three younger brothers, Russmon, Roderick and Joselito.
While relatives were able to take in his brothers, Pineda was left on his own. He spent the next few years homeless, often sleeping outside in public parks and scraping for any food or water that he could afford. When possible, he would stay at a friend's house, who offered him a cot outside. Eventually, Pineda was forced to quit school and take up odd jobs collecting scrap metal and bottles at the pier and selling newspapers to support his family.
Early Career
Pineda's love of music started at a young age. He began singing at just five years old, and had entered many singing contests as a child. In 1982, when he was 15, Pineda was introduced to a local band called Ijos, and was encouraged by his friends to try out as their new lead singer. He sang the Beatles' "Help" and Air Supply's "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All." Although they were concerned with his lack of training, Ijos members were wowed by Pineda's powerful voice, and took him on as the new front man of the band. One of the band member's friends even offered to pay Pineda's salary, 35 pesos a night, out of his own pocket, and Pineda was offered a tiny room to sleep under the guitarist's front stairs.
In 1986, some members of Ijos joined together to form the new pop-rock band Amo. The group found success covering songs by hit groups Heart, Queen and Journey. In 1988, they turned heads when they won the Philippines' leg of the Yamaha World Band Explosion Contest. Although they were disqualified in the finals due to a technicality, the event was broadcast on TV in Asia, widening their fanbase. The band continued performing at popular clubs and arenas around the Philippines.
In 1990, the members re-grouped yet again, under the new name Intensity Five, and re-entered the contest. The band came in as runner up and Pineda won the Best Vocalist Award. After a series of unfortunate health problems in the early '90s, including the brief loss of his voice, Pineda re-emerged in 1999 with a new solo album with Warner Brothers. The self-titled album had several hits in Asia.
After brief stints with a few different bands, Pineda found success again in 2006 with The Zoo, a band that he formed with Monet Cajipe, a guitarist/songwriter who had been in all his bands during over the previous 20 years. The Zoo performed at several popular clubs in the area and, in 2007, released an album by MCA Universal titled Zoology . Soon the band began covering songs by groups such as Journey, Survivor, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles and more, with more than 200 performances uploaded to YouTube.
On June 28, 2007, Neal Schon, guitarist and member of the band Journey, saw a video of Pineda on YouTube and immediately contacted him. The band had been looking for a new lead singer, and Pineda's voice sounded strikingly similar to Steve Perry, Journey's legendary former front man. After speaking with Schon on the phone, Pineda made arrangements to fly to the United States and audition with the band in San Francisco. On December 5, 2007, Pineda was welcomed as the band's new lead singer.
Right away, Pineda went on tour with the band, performing two shows in Chile and two in Las Vegas. Both were a huge success. After a series of guest show appearances and magazine features, Pineda gained popularity within the American public. On June 3, 2008, the newly organized Journey released their first album, Revelation , which came in at No. 5 on the U.S. charts. The album was their highest charting album since Trial by Fire (with Steve Perry), and reached platinum status by October 2008.
Soon after the album's release, the band continued touring around the world with Pineda. The documentary, Don't Stop Believin': Everyman's Journey , slated to be released in 2012, will chronicle the band's "Revelation Tour," and Pineda's first years with the band.
Personal Life
When he is not on tour, Pineda resides in the Philippines with his wife, Cherry, their children, Cherub and Thea. He has two other sons—Matthew, 19, and Angelo, 13—from past relationships.
QUICK FACTS
- Name: Arnel Pineda
- Birth Year: 1967
- Birth date: September 5, 1967
- Birth City: Sampaloc, Manila
- Birth Country: Philippines
- Gender: Male
- Best Known For: Arnel Pineda is best known as the new lead singer for the rock group Journey.
- Astrological Sign: Virgo
- Nacionalities
CITATION INFORMATION
- Article Title: Arnel Pineda Biography
- Author: Biography.com Editors
- Website Name: The Biography.com website
- Url: https://www.biography.com/musicians/arnel-pineda
- Access Date:
- Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
- Last Updated: July 20, 2020
- Original Published Date: April 2, 2014
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Journey’s Jonathan Cain Talks Vegas Residency, Perseverance and New 2022 LP
by Jacob Uitti December 9, 2021, 11:10 am
Journey is back in Las Vegas. While the Bay Area-born rock band, which is known for songs like “ Don’t Stop Believin ’” and “Faithfully,” has been playing Sin City since the Millenium, the group is back again after a pandemic-induced hiatus. (Now three shows in with two more to go in December.) And, says keyboardist Jon Cain, they’re already seeing people tear up. “I saw a couple of ladies in tears in the front row,” Cain says of the band’s recent shows in the desert.
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For Cain, to be back is a real achievement. He and the band missed the stage, their time away was “devastating.” But in the meantime, the group wrote and recorded a new album, long-distance, which Journey is set to release in spring 2022 and will feature bassist Randy Jackson.
“We got lemons and we made lemonade,” Cain tells American Songwriter of the album that could feature upwards of 16 songs. “This record has a lot of fire.”
In June, Journey debuted their new album’s first single, “The Way We Used To Be,” which was born via file-sharing. It’s also true to the core of the band, immediately part of the best of their epic cannon. Journey guitarist Neal Schon was sending Cain keyboard licks he’d been working on. Unsure whether they were “Journey” songs or not, he let Cain check them out. Cain was inspired and got his pen moving. Along with playing keys, Cain has written song lyrics for much of his life, including the chorus for “Don’t Stop Believin’,” which was born from a conversation he had with his father. Now, in lockdown, Cain wrote about what he observed: he didn’t want to accept this “new normal” everyone was talking about. So, he said so.
“I reject the ‘new norm’,” he says. “No, we’re going back to the way we used to be. Our fans don’t want a new normal.”
Cain recalls the pandemic. He remembers acquiring COVID-19 and the separation he had from his wife in quarantine. In his soul was this idea of getting back together. When he heard Schon’s loop, which Cain says “sounded like the pandemic” and offered blues sensibilities and feelings of real pain, he wanted to put this idea for a hook down and sing about distance and his hope of shrinking it.
“We’re ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ that’s who we are,” Cain says. “We never quit!”
During the Vegas shows, the fans have taken to the new tune. It engenders a sense of hope and community.
Cain says he’s “old school.” On the new record, he also wrote a love song about “still believing” in love. It’s one of many tracks on the forthcoming LP, which Cain says will include signature Journey sounds, heartfelt ballads, and big rockers. In fact, the band is still in the process of sequencing the tracks, getting the exact right order. For the record, Cain wrote all the lyrics long-distance. He gives praise to a higher power for that.
“It’s my relationship with the Lord,” he says. “When it comes to Journey, He says, ‘I got ya,” and He sure did.”
Journey, which was originally comprised of past members from groups like Santana and Steve Miller Band, released its self-titled debut record in 1975. The band released a new album every year into 1980 when it released two albums in 12 months. Escape came in 1981 and with it, Journey’s biggest hit, the one that will last for likely thousands of years—“Don’t Stop Believin’.” The song was born during a conversation when a dejected Cain was talking with his father about quitting music. But his father encouraged that his big break was just around the corner and “don’t stop believing.” Boom. Ever since, the band has lasted through lineup changes, lead singer changes, and decades of time.
“It’s great to feel relevant at this point,” Cain says. “I’m certainly grateful for our fans for sticking with us.”
Cain recalls early reviews from outlets like Rolling Stone , which, he says, dismissed the band as some pop fad. Yet, Cain laughs, the big groups in the ‘70s and ‘80s now have to sing lines like, Girls, girls, girls, which may not feel as natural today as in the prime of their youths. To wit, over the summer, Journey played to 120,000 people at Lollapalooza, many of which Cain says were families. Despite these more wholesome roots, the band’s new record has much vim and vigor, stoked by Schon’s ambitious playing, Cain’s prolific lyrics, and lead singer Arnel Pineda’s sky-piercing vocals.
“Arnel delivered,” Cain says of the frontman, who joined Journey in 2007, filling the big shoes of Steve Perry. “We’re really blessed to have a man with a humble heart and mighty voice being our leader. He’s a showman. Last night the crowd was kind of dead but in the end, he had them standing up and they were loving it. It’s Vegas!”
For Cain, that’s the magic of music. Especially in a live setting (and Journey will be going on tour starting February 22 in Pittsburgh with Billy Idol.) It’s this invisible thing that has so much power to change. It brings joy to a room, energy. It can bring someone to tears and to laughter. As such, there’s a responsibility to being a musician, a purveyor of this sound. But if you do it right—if you keep the faith—it will pay off. And people will remember.
“I go to sleep at night,” Cain says, “and I know when I pass, I’ve left something behind. I think every artist wants to leave something behind they will be remembered for. It’s the songs that you leave behind—that’s all that matters.”
All photos courtesy Giant Noise
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Journey and Toto Kick Off 2022 ‘Freedom’ Tour: Set Lists, Videos
Journey kicked off their 2022 Freedom tour last night in Pittsburgh with a crowd-pleasing 19-song set largely dedicated to their biggest hits.
Neal Schon , Jonathan Cain and Arnel Pineda were joined at the packed PPG Paints Arena by recently recruited keyboardist and singer Jason Derlatka, drummer Deen Castronovo and bassist Todd Jenson . There was no mention of bassist Randy Jackson or drummer Narada Michael Walden, who were announced as new band members in 2020.
Castronovo and Jenson, who played with Schon in Hardline in the early '90s, formed a powerful rhythm section, while Castronovo delivered lead vocals on "Mother, Father." Derlatka took the vocal spotlight for two Raised on Radio tracks, "I'll Be Alright Without You" and "Girl Can't Help It."
You can see videos and set lists from the show below.
Watch Journey Perform 'Only the Young' on 2022 Tour Opener
Cain, Pineda and Schon were in great form throughout the evening. The guitarist even incorporated a big chunk of "My Hometown" from HSAS' Through the Fire , his 1984 live collaboration with Sammy Hagar , into an extended version of 'Wheel in the Sky."
Watch Toto Perform 'Till the End' on 2022 Tour Opener
After guitarist Steve Lukather noted that the band hadn't played live in nearly two and a half years, Toto opened with a 10-song set that concluded with a strong one-two punch of "Rosanna" and "Africa."
Journey and Toto's 2022 Freedom tour is scheduled to conclude on May 16 in Quebec City. You can get date and ticket information at JourneyMusic.com .
Watch Journey Perform 'Anyway You Want It' on 2022 Tour Opener
Journey, PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, Feb. 22, 2022 1. "Only the Young" 2. "Stone in Love" 3. "Don't Stop Believin'" 4. "Faithfully" 5. "I'll Be Alright Without You" 6. "Ask the Lonely" 7. "Who's Crying Now" 8. "Mother, Father" 9. "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" 10. "Lights" 11. " The Way We Used to Be " 12. "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" 13. "Wheel in the Sky" / "My Hometown" 14. "Open Arms" 15. "Girl Can't Help It" 16. "Send Her My Love" 17. "Be Good to Yourself" 18. "When You Love a Woman" 19. "Anyway You Want It"
Toto, PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, Feb. 22, 2022 1. "Till the End" 2. "Hold the Line" 3. "I'll Be Over You" 4. "White Sister" 5. "Georgy Porgy" 6. "I Won't Hold You Back" 7. "You Are the Flower" 8. "Home of the Brave" 9. "Rosanna" 10. "Africa"
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Arnel Pineda on JOURNEY’s Potential Reunion with Steve Perry and Career Impact
via GIGS / YouTube
In a chat with Rolling Stone, Arnel Pineda, the frontman of the iconic band Journey, shared his thoughts on the possibility of reuniting with the former lead singer, Steve Perry. Pineda, known for his upbeat personality and powerful vocals, revealed his openness to the idea, sparking excitement among fans.
Dreamy Encounter with an Icon: Arnel Meets Steve Perry
Expressing his amazement at the unexpected encounter with Perry, Pineda shared,
“I posted on Instagram that I had waited 35 years for that. It was dreamy. I couldn’t believe I met him since he’s very reclusive and he avoids people.”
Pineda reflected on the profound influence Perry had on him, stating,
“He’s one of my heroes when it comes to singing. I remember back in the ’80s, I would sleep on the bus with my Walkman on in my ears as his voice sang all these favorite songs from Journey.”
View this post on Instagram Modafinil 5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;”> A post shared by Journey (@journeyofficial)
A Career Sacrifice for the Love of Perry and Journey
When asked about the possibility of Perry’s return and the impact on his role in the band, Pineda responded,
“I miss them so much together. Every now and then, I watch their videos together. It’s always them with Steve Perry that I watch.”
Acknowledging the sentiment of fans who proclaim, “No Perry, No Journey,” Pineda sympathized,
“I understand it. Where I come from, we’re so influenced by Western music. We loved the originals, if you know what I mean.”
Addressing the potential impact on his career, Pineda shared a surprising perspective,
“That would be OK to me! I’m telling you. That’s how much I adore him and I adore Journey and how much I adore Steve Perry.”
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Retro and Nostalgia Creator (@70sandbeyond)
Anticipation for the Future: Pineda’s Genuine Enthusiasm
Recounting a personal anecdote, Pineda revealed,
“Back in 2005, I resigned from my job in Hong Kong because I lost my voice due to acid reflux. I was telling my friends back then that my only regret was I lost my voice before I had the chance to sing side-by-side with Steve Perry.”
He continued,
“I just wish that one show with him… it would change my life forever. It’s been 30 years now, and the band keeps changing my life in ways nobody would ever guess would happen.”
Arnel Pineda’s genuine admiration for Steve Perry and his eagerness for a potential reunion add a layer of anticipation to Journey’s future. As fans speculate on what could be, Pineda’s words reflect the profound impact that music and collaboration can have on an artist’s journey, transcending the boundaries of time.
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Journey Releases First Studio Album in Over a Decade, Ahead of 50th Anniversary
Journey’s Arnel Pineda, Neal Schon, and Jonathan Cain
Journey have released Freedom , their first studio album of all new songs in over a decade. Listen to many of the tracks below. The album arrived July 8, 2022, via BMG (and on Frontier Records in Europe and Japan).
The band returned to U.S. arenas on Feb. 22 with the Freedom Tour 2022 with Toto as special guest. Though that tour is complete, they have many more dates scheduled for the summer and into 2023, when they’ll be celebrating their 50th anniversary.
In June 2021, Neal Schon noted that they had written dozens of new songs , and were “whittling it down to 10 or 12.” [It actually features 15 songs.] Over that summer, the band’s new lineup headlined the Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago and played Central Park at We Love NYC: The Homecoming Concert, in addition to honoring 9/11 first responders at the Tunnel to Towers concert in August.
Journey features founder Neal Schon (lead guitarist), Jonathan Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Arnel Pineda (lead vocals) Jason Derlatka (keyboards, backing vocals), and Deen Castranovo (drums, backing vocals). Randy Jackson returns on bass guitar, on the album but is not touring with the group while he recovers from surgery.
“United We Stand” was released on the 4th of July. “More than ever, we need to take care of each other and look after one another,” the band wrote on their social media platforms. “‘United We Stand’ is a reminder that together we can make a difference.”
Of “Don’t Give Up On Us,” Schon says, “It is a very melodic song. It’s soulful, coming more from that R&B place and a little more Motown sounding but it definitely rocks. I feel like it’s got Journey all over it.”
Of their 50th anniversary next year, Schon told USA Today , “there’s room for [the band’s storied alumni] to jump in if they want to participate. 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.”
Schon was asked about his current relationship with Perry. “We are in contact,” he said. “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.”
Watch them perform “Any Way You Want It” on the tour’s opening night, Feb. 22
“I wanted kind of a punky rendition of ‘Any Way You Want It’,” says Schon, the group’s guitarist, songwriter, and producer, about the first single, “You Got the Best of Me.” “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.”
Of “Let It Rain,” Schon notes, “We didn’t immediately work on the song, it just sat there as a jam for a long time, and then every once in a while, I’d come in to work on something, and Narada (Michael Walden) would play it for me, and I’d go, ‘Wow, we should really f**king work this thing up, there’s something there.’”
Listen to “Let It Rain”
See the complete track listing below the dates.
Journey 2022 Freedom Tour Dates (Tickets are available here and here )
Jul 15 – Resorts World Theatre – Las Vegas, NV* Jul 16 – Resorts World Theatre – Las Vegas, NV* Jul 20 – California Mid-State Fair – Paso Robles, CA Jul 22 – Resorts World Theatre – Las Vegas, NV* Jul 23 – Resorts World Theatre – Las Vegas, NV* Jul 27 – Tingley Coliseum – Albuquerque, NM Jul 29 – NMSU Pan American Center – Las Cruces, NM Jul 30 – United Supermarkets Arena – Lubbock, TX Aug 05 – Soaring Eagle Casino – Mount Pleasant, MI Aug 06 – Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium Aug 08 – CMAC PAC – Canandaigua, NY Sep 17 – Nugget Casino Resort – Sparks, NV
2023 Mar 01 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena Mar 09 – Quebec City, QC – Centre Videotron Mar 12 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
*with symphony orchestra
Related: Links to 100s of current classic rock tours
Freedom Track Listing 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 After Glow Let It Rain Holdin On All Day and All Night Don’t Go United We Stand Life Rolls On Beautiful As You Are
Listen to the rocker “Come Away With Me”
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Music | Review: Journey is good, but this opening act…
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Music | san jose: homicide arrest made after woman found dead at home, music | review: journey is good, but this opening act is much better, toto tops journey in concert at chase center in san francisco.
Call the concert police, because Toto stole the show from Journey on Thursday night at Chase Center in San Francisco.
Sure, the hometown headliners were good, delivering remarkably faithful renditions of many of the hits from the group’s recording heyday of late ’70s and first half of the ’80s — despite now missing a number of the key players from that time period.
Yet, the opening act was nothing short of a revelation, wowing Journey fans — many of whom walked in only knowing the big Toto hits “Rosanna” and (in part due to Weezer) “Africa” — with a fully engaging set built from superb songs and even better musicianship.
The whole arena was abuzz between the two bands’ sets and you could hear Journey fans muttering in astonishment about how great Toto was onstage and the number of good songs the band delivered in its set.
In other words, if you decided to skip seeing the opener in order to avoid traffic on Thursday night, you definitely made the wrong decision.
Hopefully fans won’t make that mistake when the potent doubleheader checks into the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on April 1. (And, no, this is not some elaborate April Fools joke — Toto actually was that good.) For ticket information, visit golden1center.com .
Toto wasn’t even originally supposed to be at this show. Billy Idol was the scheduled opener when ducats originally went on sale back in November. But then Idol withdrew from the tour, reportedly due to the need to get sinus surgery, and Toto moved into the opening slot for both the Chase and Golden 1 dates. (Toto was already set to open the second half of Journey’s Freedom Tour.)
Toto kicked off the show in relatively recent territory, performing a head-turning take on “Orphan” — from “Toto XIV” — that served to announce that concertgoers were in for a treat. The seven-piece band was in superb form, led by the mighty guitar work of Steve Lukather — Toto’s sole continuous touring member.
Toto then zoomed back to the beginning as it touched upon its best single — the rocking “Hold the Line” — from its 1978 self-titled debut. It would later return to that same album, and find similar success, with a funkified take on “Georgy Porgy.”
The pure musicianship was extraordinary, with the blazing Lukather joined by bassist John Pierce, drummer Robert “Sput” Searight, keyboardists Steve Maggiora and Dominique “Xavier” Taplin, and multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham. Joseph Williams — son of film composer John Williams and actress Barbara Ruick — was a mighty force on vocals, as he has been since joining the band in the mid-’80s.
Toto included a phenomenal cover of the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends,” which was more Joe Cocker than Ringo Starr, but unfortunately left out its rendition of Weezer’s “Hash Pipe” (done in tribute to the alt-rock troupe famously covering “Africa”). The band closed the show with its two best-known songs — “Rosanna” and “Africa” — which resulted in mammoth sing-alongs in the crowd.
Journey opened its set with “Only the Young,” one of four numbers the band would perform from its 1983 offering “Frontiers.” In all, the group delivered 19 songs, with more than a third of them coming from its jam-packed seventh studio album — 1981’s “Escape.”
It was pretty much hit after hit after hit, yet the music didn’t sound nearly as vibrant — and definitely not as urgent — as what Toto delivered. That certainly wasn’t the fault of Neal Schon — the band’s only constant member — who was an absolute master on guitar, filling nearly every song with leads that impressed both with feel and technical ability.
I could listen to him play all day long. He’s the best part of Journey — musically speaking — and always has been.
Vocalist Arnel Pineda was an energetic front man, racing back and forth across the relatively simple stage setup and coaxing the crowd to respond to such songs as “Send Her My Love” and “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” with even more energy.
The music sounded remarkably like what you hear on record, despite the absence of Steve Perry, Steve Smith, Ross Valory and so many others. Yet, it rarely felt bigger or better than that — which is really what you hope for when you go see a band in concert.
Still, fans certainly acted like they felt they got their money’s worth — and then some — as Journey brought the evening to a close with such longtime favorites as “Wheel in the Sky” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”
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Journey Lead Singers In Order: History and Band Members
In this article, we delve into the captivating history of Journey, an iconic rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. From their humble beginnings to their meteoric rise to fame, Journey has mesmerized audiences worldwide with their unique sound and timeless hits. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the remarkable story of this legendary band.
Formation of the Band
Journey was formed in 1973 in San Francisco, California, bringing together a group of highly talented musicians. The founding members included Neal Schon, Gregg Rolie, Ross Valory, Aynsley Dunbar, and George Tickner. With their combined musical prowess and creative vision, they set out to create something extraordinary.
Early Years and Musical Style
During their early years, Journey experimented with a fusion of rock, jazz, and progressive influences, creating a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1975, showcased their musical versatility and marked the beginning of their incredible journey.
Evolution and Breakthrough Success
In 1977, Journey underwent a significant change that would forever shape its destiny. Steve Perry joined the band as their lead vocalist, injecting new energy and unparalleled vocal range into their music. This lineup change proved to be a turning point for Journey, leading to a series of chart-topping albums and unforgettable songs.
Chart-topping albums and Hit Singles
Journey’s breakthrough came in 1978 with the release of their album “Infinity,” which became a massive success. The album spawned the hit singles “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights,” propelling Journey into the mainstream spotlight. They continued their winning streak with subsequent albums, including “Evolution” (1979) and “Departure” (1980), which produced hits like “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” and “Any Way You Want It.”
The Iconic Album: “Escape”
In 1981, Journey released their most iconic album to date, “Escape.” This album elevated their status as rock superstars and solidified their place in music history. Featuring the mega-hits “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now,” “Escape” became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its emotionally charged lyrics and powerful melodies.
The Power Ballad Era
Journey’s success continued into the mid-1980s, defined by the rise of power ballads that struck a chord with fans worldwide. Songs like “Faithfully,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” and “Send Her My Love” showcased the band’s ability to create heartfelt and anthemic ballads that resonated deeply with listeners.
A Change in Direction
As the 1990s approached, Journey faced challenges and underwent significant lineup changes. Steve Perry departed from the band in 1987, leading to a period of transition as they searched for a new lead vocalist. Despite these challenges, Journey remained resilient and continued to produce music that captivated its loyal fan base.
Journey’s Enduring Legacy
Although the band’s popularity waned in the late 1990s, their music never faded from the hearts of their dedicated fans. Journey’s timeless classics continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, thanks to their emotional depth, infectious melodies, and inspiring lyrics. Their songs have become anthems for perseverance, love, and the power of music itself.
Past Journey band members include the following:
- Steve Perry (1977-1998)
- Aynsley Dunbar (1974-1978)
- Robert Fleischman (1977)
- Steve Smith (1978-1985, 1995-1998)
- Randy Jackson (1985-1987)
- Steve Augeri (1998-2006)
Current Journey band members:
- Neal Schon – Guitar (1973-present)
- Jonathan Cain – Keyboards (1980-present)
- Ross Valory – Bass (1973-1985, 1995-present)
- Arnel Pineda – Vocals (2007-present)
- Deen Castronovo – Drums (1998-present)
Lead Singers of Journey
Van Halen Lead Singers In Order: A Journey Through the Years
Black Sabbath Singers In Order: Ever-Changing Lineup of Black Sabbath
The Original Journey: Gregg Rolie’s Era
Gregg Rolie, a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, served as the original lead singer of Journey. He began his musical career as a co-founder and lead vocalist of Santana before joining forces with Neal Schon to form Journey. Rolie’s soulful voice and exceptional skills as a keyboardist and harmonicist contributed to the band’s early success. He showcased his talent on albums like “Journey,” “Look into the Future,” and “Next.” However, Rolie transitioned to co-lead vocals when Steve Perry joined the band in 1977.
Steve Perry: The Voice of Journey’s Greatest Hits
Steve Perry, widely recognized as the quintessential Journey lead singer, propelled the band to unprecedented heights during their most commercially successful era. Born with a gift for singing, Perry’s powerful and emotive vocals struck a chord with audiences worldwide. With Perry at the helm, Journey released a string of chart-topping albums, including “Infinity,” “Escape,” and “Frontiers.” Iconic songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Faithfully” became anthems for a generation. Perry’s remarkable songwriting abilities and magnetic stage presence contributed to the band’s enduring legacy.
Current Lead Singer: Arnel Pineda
Following Steve Perry’s departure in 1987, Journey experienced a series of lead singer changes. Steve Augeri, known for his vocal range and stage charisma, took over from 1998 to 2006. Jeff Scott Soto briefly joined the band in 2006, leaving his mark with his distinctive style. However, it was Arnel Pineda who breathed new life into Journey as the current lead singer. Pineda’s incredible vocal resemblance to Steve Perry, coupled with his dynamic stage presence, won the hearts of fans worldwide. Since 2008, Pineda has seamlessly integrated into the band, injecting fresh energy and passion into their performances.
Journey’s Enduring Discography: Albums That Defined an Era
Over the past five decades, Journey has released a diverse and extensive discography, showcasing their musical prowess and creativity. Let’s explore some of their most iconic albums:
“ Infinity ” (1978): With Steve Perry as the lead singer, “Infinity” marked a significant turning point for Journey. It featured hit singles like “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights,” solidifying their place in the rock music landscape.
“ Escape ” (1981): This album became a monumental success, boasting chart-topping hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” “Escape” catapulted Journey to international stardom and remains one of their most beloved records.
“ Frontiers ” (1983): Building upon their previous success, “Frontiers” showcased Journey’s evolution with tracks like “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” and “Faithfully.” The album’s polished production and memorable hooks solidified Journey’s status as one of the biggest rock bands of the 1980s.
“ Raised on Radio ” (1986): Released during the band’s final years with Steve Perry, “Raised on Radio” featured a more radio-friendly sound and produced hits like “Be Good to Yourself” and “I’ll Be Alright Without You.” Despite tensions within the band, the album showcased their ability to create catchy, melodic rock tunes.
“ Revelation ” (2008): With Arnel Pineda as the lead singer, “Revelation” marked a new chapter for Journey. The album featured new recordings of their classic hits, reaffirming Pineda’s vocal prowess and rekindling the band’s popularity among longtime fans and a new generation.
“ Eclipse ” (2011): Continuing their musical journey with Pineda, Journey released “Eclipse,” a record that showcased their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The album demonstrated their enduring songwriting skills and featured tracks like “City of Hope” and “Edge of the Moment.”
“Escape & Frontiers Live in Japan” (2019): As a testament to their enduring appeal, Journey released a live album featuring their performances of the “Escape” and “Frontiers” albums in their entirety. The release showcased the band’s timeless hits in a live setting, capturing the energy and excitement of their concerts.
Journey’s Impact and Legacy
Journey’s impact on the rock music landscape cannot be overstated. With their infectious melodies, anthemic choruses, and powerful vocals, they carved out a unique sound that resonated with millions of listeners. Their music transcended generations, becoming the soundtrack to countless moments and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
Steve Perry’s tenure as the lead singer marked the band’s most successful period, and his distinct voice became synonymous with Journey’s sound. His emotional delivery and ability to connect with audiences elevated their songs to new heights and created an unparalleled legacy.
Arnel Pineda’s addition to the band injected new energy into Journey and allowed them to continue their musical journey. Pineda’s remarkable vocal resemblance to Perry breathed new life into the band’s live performances, earning him a dedicated fanbase and ensuring that Journey’s music lives on.
Journey’s timeless hits continue to be celebrated and embraced today. Songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” have become cultural touchstones, appearing in films, TV shows, and sporting events, and capturing the imaginations of new generations of listeners.
Journey Band Member’s Ages
Here, is the list of all the Journey member’s ages. It seems like all of the Journey band members are above 50 and below 80.
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Who Is The Lead Singer Of Journey?
The lead singer of Journey took over the band after the band’s former lead singer’s departure. The Journey is a well-known American rock band that was formed in San Francisco in 1973. The band experienced its biggest commercial success between 1978 and 1987. In today’s post, I will discuss everything about who is the current lead singer of Journey .
Who Is The Lead Singer Of Journey ?
Arnel Campaner Pineda is known as the l ead singer of Journey and is a well-known Filipino singer and songwriter . Arnel came experienced fame in the Philippines during the 1980s and internationally in 2007. However, Steve Perry is the former lead singer of the band Journey .
Keep on reading to know about the current lead singer of Journey and what happened to the lead singer of the band Journey .
About The Lead Singer Of Journey
The new lead singer of the rock band Journey was born to Restituto Lising Pineda and Josefina Manansala Campaner. It was his mother who encouraged him to sing along to her favorite singers like Karen Carpenter and Barbra Streisand. In his childhood, his parents entered him in several singing contests.
Unfortunately, his mother died when he was 13 years old suffering from heart disease. Her illness had left the singer’s family deep in debt. They were unable to pay their apartment rent for more than six months. Later, his father decided to move out and ask relatives to take in Arnel’s siblings. Arnel even quit school and started working to ease his father’s burden.
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The singer spent two years on the streets, sleeping wherever he could. It included public parks, a narrow bench outside crowded houses, and more. He used to some money by collecting glass bottles, newspapers, and scrap metals by selling them to recyclers. Sometimes, he would also go to the pier docked ships. Arnel used to eat Marie biscuits for two days as he didn’t have much to eat.
Arnel was just 15 years old when he became the lead singer of the Filipino group Ijos. He often used to sing at a Pizza Parlor on Taft Street in Manila. Later, the member of Ijos formed a group called Amo. This group entered and won the Rock Wars contest in the Philippines. They also won the Philippines leg of the Yamaha World Band Explosion and went on to the finals in Hong Kong .
In 1990, Arnel and other Amo members formed another band named Intensity Five. They once again entered the Yamaha World Band Explosion where Arnel won the Best Vocalist award! Later, the members split from the band and formed another band behind Arnel named New Age. The lead singer of the band Journey now has a net worth of $20 million dollars.
The original lead singer of Journey was Stephen Ray Perry. His singing voice has gained more attention from prominent musical peers and publications. Do you know why did Steve Perry leave Journey ? Steve was diagnosed with a degenerative bone condition. He required a hip replacement and was rushed into surgery. For the sake of Journey’s future, Perry left the band. Later, Journey’s lead singer died at the age of 79.
Visit Singerbio and read everything about the singer.
Who Is The Lead Singer Of Journey Now 2022?
The band’s current lineup features Schon, a constant member, alongside keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Jonathan Cain (1980-present), lead vocalist Arnel Pineda (2007-present), drummer Deen Castronovo (1998–2015, 2021-present), keyboardist Jason Derlatka (2019-present) and bassist Todd Jensen (2022-present).
Why Did The Lead Singer Of Journey Quit?
Since leaving Journey officially in 1996 due to a crippling hip injury that prevented him from touring, Perry has been surprisingly absent from music. His lack of creative output was a stark change from his time in Journey, a band that was seemingly either on tour or in the studio for the entirety of the 1980s.
How Many Lead Singers Are There For Journey?
They have had five lead singers to date. The single component they’ve spent three decades cyclically seeking to replace is the voice of their frontman, Steve Perry, who came and went, and came and went – then disappeared. Any Journey singer needs to sound exactly like Steve Perry, and that is not easy.
Who Is Performing In Journey 2022?
JOURNEY Announce North American Freedom Tour 2022 With Special Guests BILLY IDOL, TOTO. Journey have announced the Freedom Tour 2022. Billy Idol will support on the first 22 dates, with Toto filling the slot on the remaining dates.
What Did Steve Perry Say About Arnel Pineda?
While accepting the award, Steve spoke warmly about his former bandmates, as well as the man who replaced him. “ I must give a shout-out to a man who sings his heart out every night, Arnel Pineda,” Perry said.
Filipino singer and songwriter from Manila, Arnel Pineda is the new lead vocalist of the band Journey. He earned his fame in the Philippines during the 1980s and internationally in 2007. The lead singer of Journey is one of the richest members of the band.
Who is Journey’s lead singer now
Who is the lead singer of journey?
Dragway 42 Music Fest is back! Kansas, Elle King, Steve Augeri and Lee Brice performing
WEST SALEM − The Dragway 42 Music Festival is back for a second year with a mix of classic rock, country music and pop rock.
Kansas, Elle King, Lee Brice, Steve Augeri and Redferrin will perform.
The event will be July 26 and 27. An additional artist will be announced later, a news release from Jayson Entertainment Group said Wednesday morning.
Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday at https://www.42fest.com/ .
Classic rock veterans Kansas are known for the hit songs "Dust In The Wind," " Carry On Wayward Son " and "Point of No Return." Founded in the 1970s, the prog rock band still includes original members Phil Ehart, drums, and Richard Williams, guitar.
Elle King , meanwhile, is a newer artist boasting the 2015 hit song "Ex's and O's," as well as " Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home) ," a duet with Miranda Lambert. Other popular songs from the soulful singer-songwriter include "America's Sweetheart," "Without You" and "Jersey Giant."
King's musical style blends rock, country, blues and indie sounds.
Country music is on the bill, too
Brice , meanwhile, is a well-established country singer-songwriter. He wrote "More Than a Memory" for Garth Brooks.
Country superstar: Carrie Underwood to headline the 2024 Concert for Legends
In 2010, Brice released his first solo album, "Love Like Crazy." Popular songs include "Rumor," "I Hope You're Happy Now," One of Them Girls" and "She Ain't Right."
Earlier this year, Brice released the single "Checking In" with for King & Country.
Steve Augeri is Journey's former lead singer
Augeri was Journey's lead singer from 1998 to 2006, replacing Steve Perry.
Touring with his own band, Augeri's setlist often includes Journey fan favorites like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Any Way You Want It," "Wheel in the Sky" and "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)."
Augeri also released a solo album, "Seven Ways 'Til Sunday" in 2022.
Redferrin is the newest musician on the bill.
First releasing country music in 2022, his debut album, "Old No. 7" came out earlier this year, featuring "Jack and Diet Coke" and "Miss Summer."
Summer concert: Country music artist, rapper, YouTube star Upchurch coming to Stark County Fairgrounds
Tickets available for one, two days and VIP
Last year's inaugural Dragway 42 Music Festival featured Cheap Trick, Ted Nugent, Warrant, Big & Rich and Steven Adler, original drummer for Guns N' Roses.
Dragway 42 is at 9161 Rainbow Highway in Wayne County.
Performance times will be July 26: Redferrin, 5:45 p.m.; Elle King, 7:30 p.m.; and Lee Brice, 9:15 p.m. July 27 will start with Steve Augeri at 5:45 p.m., followed at 7:30 p.m. by an act to be announced. Kansas performs at 9:15 p.m.
Tickets will be available for one, two days and VIP packages. Camping sites will be available with and without electricity. Tickets also will be sold at the event. Prices were not available Wednesday.
Reach Ed at [email protected] .
On X (formerly Twitter) @ebalintREP and Instagram at ed_balint
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Dragway 42 Music Fest is back! Kansas, Elle King, Steve Augeri and Lee Brice performing
SKID ROW Parts Ways With Singer ERIK GRÖNWALL; LZZY HALE To Fill In
SKID ROW has parted ways with Swedish singer Erik Grönwall . The band's longtime friend Lzzy Hale of HALESTORM will be taking over vocal duties for the upcoming scheduled four concerts.
Erik has decided that the travel and rigors of the road is not conducive to his overall health and recovery, and wants to focus on a lifestyle that is more amenable for his well-being, healing and family.
The SKID ROW members said in a statement that they are "proud of what they have created and accomplished with Erik over the past two years" and "wish nothing but the best to him and his health. To celebrate the last two years, the band will be releasing a live album that perfectly captures this moment of time in the band's 35-plus-year history, to be announced soon."
Erik said: "I got the opportunity to join this incredible band six months after my treatment against leukemia. And one month after that, I was on a world tour with SKID f**** ROW . Wow! It was a dream come true. However, it proved challenging touring the world with an impaired immune system, which is a result of my bone marrow transplant.
"I respect and understand that SKID ROW is a touring band, but since I can't prioritize my health being in the band, I have decided that it's better for me to step aside.
"I love SKID ROW , I have nothing but respect for the guys in the band but I love and respect my health more. I'm getting stronger and healthier every day but after consulting my doctor I need to allow myself more time to recover, which I can't do as the lead singer of SKID ROW . That's why I have reached the tough decision to move on.
"I want to thank the guys for this incredible opportunity. And I want to thank all the SKID ROW fans who accepted me as the lead singer of this iconic band. Health first!"
Lzzy said: "I'm stepping in for a few dates as the lead singer in SKID ROW ! What an honor to call them my friends and a privilege to be sharing the stage with them!
" Erik , I wish you all the magic on your next adventure.
"Now… which leather pants to wear?!!"
SKID ROW shows with Lzzy Hale on lead vocals:
May 17 - Walker's Bluff Casino Resort - Carterville, IL May 18 - Riverside Casino & Golf Resort - Riverside, IA May 31 - Nugget Casino Resort - Sparks, NV June 01 - Hard Rock Live Sacramento - Wheatland, CA
Erik , who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in March 2021, reflected on his journey in a summer 2022 interview with 80's Metal Recycle Bin . He said: "I wouldn't call myself a religious man [ laughs ], but I would call myself… After all of this, I'm way more spiritual. I'm, like, 'Okay, who planned this?' I was on my way to a completely different life [before my diagnosis], but it was kind of like someone just nudged me.
"I was scrolling on Instagram a couple of days ago and I just saw a post, and it was a text saying, 'I'm sorry I had to make you uncomfortable, but I had to make you move. God.' And I was, like, 'Oh, fuck, man.' [ Laughs ] That's what it feels like.
"I'm not sure if everything happens for a reason, but that's the only way I can explain this — getting leukemia, then ending up in my favorite band," he continued.
"When I was on stage in [Las] Vegas [with SKID ROW in March and April of 2022], I was interacting with the audience, and I told them that, 'Do you know how amazing it feels to be here singing the song that started your career?' 'Cause '18 And Life' was the song I auditioned with for the 'Idol' show; that's what got me on 'Idol' . And I told them, 'Do you know how it feels to be here on stage with your favorite band of all time singing the song that started your career?' And someone commented on it, and it was, like, 'Did he just quote the 'Rock Star' movie script?' And I was, like, 'Yeah, I didn't even think about that, but it's that movie," he said, referencing the film in which an average kid from Pittsburgh gets tapped to be the new lead singer for his favorite heavy metal band. "So it's kind of like a movie script.
"It's just incredible," Erik added. "I'm still trying to process it. It feels like I've been in the band for two years. It's been four months. We've done, like, 30 shows in four months. We recorded an album. We started working on a new album. We recorded a music video. Everything has been happening so fast. It's overwhelming in so many ways."
Erik also credited his wife with providing him with the emotional strength and support that he needed through his ordeal.
"I wanna say my wife has been incredible this whole journey, especially during the treatments, 'cause when I was ready to give up, she was, like, 'Hey, you're not giving up now. You've got so many people that love you and need you in their lives.' She was tough," he recalled. "And I needed that. So I was, like, 'Yeah, I know.' And I can mention I also have a two-and-a-half-year-old son at home. So that was really, really tough — coming back from the hospital and seeing him. That was my weak spot. She really helped me a lot, and she's very understanding. And obviously, when you have this kind of lifestyle, you need someone who really understands that lifestyle and supports it. And it's kind of a selfish lifestyle in many ways. But she totally gets it, and she's got my back."
Grönwall , who was a member of the Swedish hard rock band H.E.A.T. for nearly a decade before exiting the group in October 2020, announced in September 2021 that he was cancer free after receiving a bone marrow transplant one month earlier.
"There's been a lot of tears, and I still get emotional now talking about this," Erik said. "I think I'm done with the crying [ laughs ] — I think — but somehow I feel grateful that I went through all of this, 'cause it gave me a lot of perspective. I'm 34, and I just feel like I've gotten a lot of perspective on things.
"Being in this business, you see a lot of comments, and you've gotta be tough in many ways," he explained. "And back in the H.E.A.T. days, negative comments could really get to me. Now I'm just, like, 'Dude, I don't care.'
"I'm so happy to wake up every day above ground. It's, like, 'Shit, I get another day? What am I gonna do with this day?'
"I was happy before SKID ROW ," Erik added. "I am very happy in SKID ROW . Everything is temporary. I will be happy after SKID ROW . I'm just happy. I've got perspective, and I'm just happy to be alive. And I'm gonna keep singing until this voice can't sing anymore."
Grönwall sang on four H.E.A.T. studio albums — "Address The Nation" (2012), "Tearing Down The Walls" (2014), "Into The Great Unknown" (2017) and "H.E.A.T II" (2020).
In September 2021, Grönwall released his new cover version of "18 And Life" via all streaming platforms.
In 2018, Grönwall debuted in the U.S. for 10 million viewers in NBC 's live broadcast of Andrew Lloyd Webber 's and Tim Rice 's musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" . Along with John Legend , Alice Cooper , Sara Bareilles and others, Erik played the key role of Simon Zealotes .
In January 2022, Grönwall told Headbangers Lifestyle about beating cancer: "Some anonymous wonderful human being somewhere in the world donated his/her blood cells so that I could get a second chance at life. Sometimes I can just get tears in my eyes when I think about it. It's so beautiful that one person who is not connected to me in any way wanted to do that for me. He/she doesn't know that the blood cells were for me. It's completely anonymous."
In late March 2022, SKID ROW released its first single with Grönwall , "The Gang's All Here" . The song is the title track of the band's latest album, which arrived in October 2022 via earMUSIC .
SKID ROW played its first show with Grönwall on March 26, 2022 at Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada as the support act on the rescheduled dates for SCORPIONS ' "Sin City Nights" residency.
To the Skid Row faithful… Posted by SKID ROW on Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Journey Frontman Arnel Pineda on the Band's New Record, Dreams of a Steve Perry Reunion. "I'm delivering on the legacy that the Voice [Steve Perry] has left behind," says Arnel Pineda. "Meeting ...
Journey is an American rock band from San Francisco, California.Formed in February 1973 as the Golden Gate Rhythm Section, the group was renamed Journey in the summer and originally included keyboardist and vocalist Gregg Rolie, lead guitarist Neal Schon, rhythm guitarist George Tickner, bassist Ross Valory and drummer Prairie Prince.The band's lineup as of 2021 features Schon, alongside ...
In a press statement, the band later announced that Augeri had to step down as Journey's lead singer and leave the tour to recover. Augeri performed his last show with Journey on July 4 in Raleigh. ... On February 16, 2022, the band announced the title and track listing of their 15th studio album Freedom, which was released on July 8, 2022.
Arnel was a freshman at the Quiapo Parochial School when his mother succumbed to illness. With no medical insurance, hospital expenses forced the family to sell all their possessions. After his mother passed away and the family unable to pay rent, they got evicted. Arnel decides to venture out on his own, find a way to make money with hopes to ...
How Journey's Arnel Pineda Fixed His Vocal Woes. Matt Wardlaw Published: May 10, 2022. Jason Kempin, Getty Images. Journey are in the homestretch of their current tour, which wraps up this week ...
The songs made famous by Steve Perry, Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain in the 1970s and 1980s still carry the same energy and emotion with lead singer Arnel Pineda, who joined the band in 2007. Add ...
Journey's Neal Schon says he and Steve Perry are 'in a good place' before band's 50th anniversary. Melissa Ruggieri. USA TODAY. 0:00. 1:36. On the cusp of turning 50, the band that etched "Don ...
Freedom is the fifteenth studio album by the American rock band Journey, released on July 8, 2022, through BMG Rights Management and Frontiers Records.It is the band's second album to date not to feature founding bassist Ross Valory, who was dismissed in 2020; he is replaced by Randy Jackson, who was last on Raised on Radio (1986). With fifteen songs and a run time of one hour and thirteen ...
On December 5, 2007, Pineda was welcomed as the band's new lead singer. Right away, Pineda went on tour with the band, performing two shows in Chile and two in Las Vegas. Both were a huge success.
But in the meantime, the group wrote and recorded a new album, long-distance, which Journey is set to release in spring 2022 and will feature bassist Randy Jackson. "We got lemons and we made ...
The Journey rockers share how they discover their new lead singer, Arnel Pineda of the Philippines, through a Youtube video.Subscribe to http://bit.ly/Sub...
Journey and Toto's 2022 Freedom tour is scheduled to conclude on May 16 in Quebec City. You can get date and ticket information at JourneyMusic.com . Watch Journey Perform 'Anyway You Want It' on ...
JOURNEY "Freedom Tour 2022" dates: Feb. 22 - Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena * ... Everyman's Journey" about the band's resurgence upon adding Arnel Pineda as lead singer after founding member ...
In a chat with Rolling Stone, Arnel Pineda, the frontman of the iconic band Journey, shared his thoughts on the possibility of reuniting with the former lead singer, Steve Perry. Pineda, known for his upbeat personality and powerful vocals, revealed his openness to the idea, sparking excitement among fans. Dreamy Encounter with an Icon: Arnel […]
Journey's Arnel Pineda, Neal Schon, and Jonathan Cain. Journey have released Freedom, their first studio album of all new songs in over a decade. Listen to many of the tracks below. The album arrived July 8, 2022, via BMG (and on Frontier Records in Europe and Japan). The band returned to U.S. arenas on Feb. 22 with the Freedom Tour 2022 with ...
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 31: Journey lead singer Arnel Pineda, left, and lead guitarist Neal Schon perform in concert at Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Thursday, March 31, 2022.
Steve Perry, widely recognized as the quintessential Journey lead singer, propelled the band to unprecedented heights during their most commercially successful era. Born with a gift for singing, Perry's powerful and emotive vocals struck a chord with audiences worldwide. ... July 8, 2022 (Pineda) Over the past five decades, Journey has ...
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 ...
Photo: Kevin Mazur 2017. Journey 's original vocalist and keyboardist, Gregg Rolie, is set to join the band when it hits the road next month for its North American "Freedom Tour 2023," according to guitarist Neal Schon — marking the first time has performed with the diamond-selling Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group in more than four decades.
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 ...
Stephen Ray Perry (born January 22, 1949) is an American singer and songwriter. He was the lead singer and frontman of the rock band Journey during their most successful years from 1977 to 1987, and again from 1995 to 1998. He also wrote/co-wrote several Journey hit songs. Perry had a successful solo career between the mid-1980s and mid-1990s, made sporadic appearances in the 2000s, and ...
The lead singer of Journey took over the band after the band's former lead singer's departure. The Journey is a well-known American rock band that was formed. ... Who Is The Lead Singer Of Journey Now 2022? The band's current lineup features Schon, a constant member, alongside keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Jonathan Cain (1980-present ...
May 17, 2022. Legendary rockers JOURNEY have released a new single, "Let It Rain". The song is taken from the band's upcoming album, "Freedom", which will arrive on July 8 via BMG except in Europe ...
Steve Augeri is Journey's former lead singer. Augeri was Journey's lead singer from 1998 to 2006, replacing Steve Perry.. Touring with his own band, Augeri's setlist often includes Journey fan ...
And I want to thank all the SKID ROW fans who accepted me as the lead singer of this iconic band. Health first!" ... reflected on his journey in a summer 2022 interview with 80's Metal Recycle Bin.