Journey’s career has been defined by its remarkable evolution, dynamic lineup changes, and anthemic music. The band was formed in San Francisco in 1973 by guitarist Neal Schon, a prodigy who had played with Santana at just 17 years old. Alongside Schon were keyboardist and vocalist Gregg Rolie, also a Santana alum, bassist Ross Valory, guitarist George Tickner, and drummer Prairie Prince. Initially envisioned as a progressive rock band blending jazz and fusion elements, the group’s early direction set them apart but did not achieve significant commercial success.
Prairie Prince left Journey early on to rejoin The Tubes, leading to the addition of Aynsley Dunbar, a drummer with a rich history of playing with John Mayall and Frank Zappa. This marked the first of many lineup changes that would shape the band’s trajectory. In 1977, the addition of vocalist Steve Perry transformed Journey’s sound and appeal. Perry’s soulful voice and charisma steered the group toward a more melodic, radio-friendly rock style. When Rolie departed in 1980, Jonathan Cain from The Babys stepped in, completing what is now considered Journey’s classic lineup.
Journey’s discography spans 15 studio albums, beginning with their self-titled debut in 1975. While their early albums like Look into the Future (1976) and Next (1977) showcased intricate musicianship, it was not until the release of Infinity (1978) that they achieved major success. This triple-platinum album introduced hits such as “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights.” The band’s commercial peak came with Escape (1981), which reached number one on the Billboard 200 and spawned enduring classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms.” To date, Escape has been certified diamond, signifying over 10 million copies sold in the United States. Other successful albums include Frontiers (1983), Raised on Radio (1986), and Trial by Fire (1996).
Among Journey’s biggest hits, “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become a cultural phenomenon. Released in 1981, it peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 but gained new life decades later, becoming one of the best-selling digital tracks of the 20th century. Other chart-topping singles include “Open Arms,” “Faithfully,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” and “Any Way You Want It.” These songs showcase the band’s ability to blend soaring melodies with deeply relatable lyrics, cementing their place as one of rock’s most enduring acts.
Journey has received numerous accolades throughout their career. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, recognizing their profound impact on the music industry. Their songs have earned multiple BMI awards for songwriting, highlighting their enduring presence on radio and streaming platforms. The band’s performances have consistently drawn critical acclaim, and their albums have collectively sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
Beyond their music, Journey’s members have contributed to various charitable endeavors. Neal Schon has participated in multiple benefit concerts, including fundraisers for victims of natural disasters. One notable event was the 2017 “Journey for Our Soldiers” benefit concert, which raised funds for military veterans and their families. Jonathan Cain has also made contributions outside of music, engaging in educational initiatives and mentoring young musicians through songwriting workshops. These efforts reflect the band’s commitment to using their platform to make a positive impact.
Journey’s enduring legacy lies in their ability to connect with audiences through universal themes of love, resilience, and hope. Their iconic songs have become soundtracks to personal and collective milestones, resonating with listeners across generations. Their willingness to adapt while staying true to their roots has ensured their relevance in an ever-changing music industry, making them one of the most beloved bands in rock history.
Journey Songs (Alphabetical Order)
(A – E)
A Few Coins – Dream After Dream (1980)
A Better Life – Generations (2005)
After All These Years – Revelation (2008)
After Glow – Freedom (2022)
After The Fall – Frontiers (1983)
All Day and All Night – Freedom (2022)
All the Things – Arrival (2001)
All That Really Matters – Time3 (1992)
All The Way – Arrival (2001)
Anytime – Infinity (1978)
Anyway – Look Into The Future (1976)
Any Way You Want It – Departure (1980)
Anything Is Possible – Eclipse (2011)
Ask the Lonely – Two of a Kind (1983)
Baby I’m a Leavin’ You – Trial By Fire (1996)
Back Talk – Frontiers (1983)
Be Good to Yourself – Raised on Radio (1986)
Beautiful as You Are
Believe – Generations (2005)
Better Together – Generations (2005)
Beyond the Clouds – Generations (2005)
Butterfly (She Flies Alone) – Generations (2005)
Can Do – Infinity (1978)
Can’t Tame the Lion – Trial By Fire (1996)
Castles Burning – Trial By Fire (1996)
Chain Reaction – Frontiers (1983)
Chain of Love – Eclipse (2011)
Change for the Better – Revelation (2008)
City of Hope – Eclipse (2011)
City of the Angels – Evolution (1979)
Colors Of The Spirit – Trial By Fire (1996)
Come Away with Me – Freedom (2022)
Cookie Duster – Time3 (1992)
Daydream – Evolution (1979)
Dead or Alive – Escape (1981)
Departure – Departure (1980)
Destiny – Dream After Dream (1980)
Dixie Highway – Captured (1981)
Do You Recall – Evolution (1979)
Don’t Be Down on Me Baby – Trial By Fire (1996)
Don’t Give Up on Us – Freedom (2022)
Don’t Go – Freedom (2022)
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Escape (1981)
Dream After Dream – Dream After Dream (1980)
Easy to Fall – Trial By Fire (1996)
Edge of the Blade – Frontiers (1983)
Edge of the Moment – Eclipse (2011)
Escape – Escape (1981)
Every Generation – Generations (2005)
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