Steve Perry, known as “The Voice,” is one of the most iconic and celebrated vocalists in rock history. Whether belting out arena anthems with Journey or delivering heartfelt ballads in his solo career, Perry’s voice has left an indelible mark on music lovers across generations. With a career spanning decades, his powerful, emotionally charged performances have made him a legend, and his songs continue to resonate with fans around the world. From stadium-shaking hits to soul-stirring love songs, Steve Perry’s catalog is filled with timeless classics that have defined the sound of rock and roll. But which songs stand out the most? In this list, we dive into the top 10 most popular Steve Perry songs of all time, showcasing his incredible range, unforgettable melodies, and the sheer vocal brilliance that made him a household name. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, get ready to rediscover the tracks that have cemented Perry’s legacy as one of rock’s greatest frontmen. From his chart-topping solo hits to his unforgettable Journey anthems, these songs represent the very best of Steve Perry’s legendary career!
1. Oh Sherrie (1984)
Steve Perry’s solo career took flight with the release of “Oh Sherrie” in April 1984, a standout track from his debut album Street Talk. Co-written with Randy Goodrum, Craig Krampf, and Perry’s then-girlfriend Sherrie Swafford, the song is an emotional blend of love and regret, driven by a powerful mid-tempo rock beat. Perry’s impassioned, soaring vocals made this song an instant classic, propelling it to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video, featuring Perry in a medieval-inspired setting, became a staple on MTV, helping cement his identity as a solo artist outside of Journey. “Oh Sherrie” remains a beloved anthem from the 1980s, showcasing Perry’s unmatched ability to convey raw emotion and his signature vocal style that defined much of that era’s rock music. The song’s timeless appeal continues to resonate with fans old and new, making it a touchstone in Perry’s storied career.
2. Foolish Heart (1984)
Released in November 1984, “Foolish Heart” marked the fourth single from Steve Perry’s Street Talk album and revealed a softer, more reflective side of the singer. Unlike the energetic “Oh Sherrie,” this ballad is built around a delicate piano melody and tender lyrics, exploring the vulnerability and fear of heartbreak. Perry’s voice gently ebbs and flows with the song’s emotional waves, resonating deeply with listeners who found comfort in its sincerity. The track reached No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its simplicity, both in arrangement and lyrical content, has made it one of Perry’s most cherished solo songs. “Foolish Heart” stands as a testament to his ability to channel deep, personal feelings into universal themes, making it a standout moment in his solo career.
3. Don’t Stop Believin’ (1981)
Released in October 1981 as part of Journey’s Escape album, “Don’t Stop Believin’” has since become one of the most iconic rock anthems of all time. Built around Jonathan Cain’s instantly recognizable piano riff and Steve Perry’s optimistic lyrics about resilience and perseverance, the song initially peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its cultural impact far outshines its original chart success. “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become a fixture in films, television shows, and sporting events, turning it into a symbol of hope and perseverance. Perry’s commanding vocals and the soaring, sing-along chorus have made this track an enduring classic that continues to inspire generations of fans, cementing its place as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded.
4. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (1983)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” was released in January 1983 as the lead single from Journey’s Frontiers album, and it remains a powerhouse of emotion and raw energy. The song’s driving rhythm, powered by Neal Schon’s aggressive guitar riffs and Jonathan Cain’s pulsating synthesizers, captures the intensity of a relationship on the verge of collapse. Steve Perry delivers the lyrics with fiery determination, turning the song into a cathartic anthem for those grappling with love and loss. Despite mixed reviews of its somewhat campy music video, the song reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become a fixture in the band’s repertoire. “Separate Ways” showcases Journey at their most intense and remains a fan favorite.
5. Faithfully (1983)
Released in April 1983, “Faithfully” became one of Journey’s most iconic ballads. Written by keyboardist Jonathan Cain, this heartfelt song reflects the challenges of maintaining love while constantly being on the road. Perry’s vocals elevate the poignant lyrics, delivering a powerful mix of longing, devotion, and vulnerability. The track reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become a favorite at weddings, serving as a declaration of enduring love. “Faithfully” is a prime example of Journey’s ability to fuse emotional depth with a melodic rock sound, and it remains a timeless piece in their catalog.
6. Lights (1978)
“Lights,” released in August 1978, is a love letter to the city of San Francisco, Journey’s hometown, and it remains a quintessential track in their early catalog. Featured on the Infinity album, it was one of the first songs to spotlight Steve Perry’s rich, emotive vocals. Despite peaking at just No. 68 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Lights” became a staple in Journey’s live shows, particularly in the Bay Area, where it resonated deeply with local fans. With its mellow guitar work and Perry’s heartfelt delivery, the song encapsulates the warmth and comfort of returning home. It’s an enduring tribute to the city that shaped Journey’s sound.
7. Any Way You Want It (1980)
“Any Way You Want It,” released in February 1980, is pure rock adrenaline. As the lead single from Journey’s Departure album, the song captures the energetic spirit of the early 1980s with its upbeat tempo, driven by Neal Schon’s electrifying guitar riffs. Perry’s dynamic vocals paired with the infectious chorus create a high-energy anthem that has remained a fan favorite in live performances. Although it peaked at No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Any Way You Want It” is one of Journey’s most recognizable hits, embodying the carefree, rebellious attitude of rock music at the time.
8. Who’s Crying Now (1981)
Released in July 1981, “Who’s Crying Now” was the first single from Journey’s landmark Escape album, and it beautifully blends smooth, melodic pop with the band’s signature rock intensity. Perry’s emotional delivery of the lyrics, paired with Jonathan Cain’s lush keyboard melodies, create a song that’s both introspective and anthemic. The song’s exploration of unresolved love and heartache struck a chord with listeners, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Neal Schon’s evocative guitar solo adds another layer of emotional depth, making “Who’s Crying Now” one of the band’s standout tracks from the 1980s.
9. Open Arms (1982)
“Open Arms,” released in January 1982, is one of Journey’s most iconic love songs, a definitive power ballad that continues to resonate. Featured on the Escape album, this song is an emotional powerhouse, with Steve Perry’s heartfelt vocals soaring over a gentle piano and orchestral arrangement. Its vulnerability and earnest declaration of love helped it peak at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidified Journey’s reputation for creating memorable, heartfelt ballads. “Open Arms” has since become a wedding staple, and its timeless appeal cements its place as one of Journey’s most celebrated tracks.
10. You Better Wait (1994)
In July 1994, Steve Perry made a triumphant return with “You Better Wait,” the lead single from his second solo album For the Love of Strange Medicine. This song revealed a more mature Perry, blending rock with a hint of blues and featuring his signature powerful vocals. The gritty guitar riffs and introspective lyrics gave the song a depth that resonated with fans, even after Perry’s time with Journey. It reached No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Perry’s ability to captivate audiences had not faded. “You Better Wait” stands as one of the highlights of his solo career, showcasing his evolution as an artist.