Journey, formed in 1973 in San Francisco, California, is an American rock band that has achieved legendary status in the music industry. Known for their melodic hooks, soaring vocals, and electrifying guitar solos, Journey has left an indelible mark on the rock and pop music landscape.
The band’s lineup has undergone changes over the years, but their most recognizable and influential period came with the addition of vocalist Steve Perry in 1977. Perry’s distinct voice and emotive delivery propelled Journey to new heights of success. The band’s sound was characterized by anthemic power ballads, catchy rock tunes, and captivating live performances.
Journey’s breakthrough came with their album “Escape” in 1981, which spawned iconic hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” These songs remain timeless classics, often regarded as some of the greatest rock songs of all time. Throughout the 1980s, Journey continued to dominate the charts with chart-toppers like “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” and “Faithfully,” solidifying their status as one of the most successful rock bands of the era.
Despite lineup changes and periods of hiatus, Journey’s music has endured and maintained a loyal fan base. Their songs continue to resonate with audiences across generations, and their live performances are renowned for their energy and showmanship.
Journey’s contribution to rock music extends far beyond their commercial success. They have left an enduring legacy through their memorable melodies, anthemic choruses, and heartfelt lyrics that evoke feelings of hope, love, and perseverance. With their timeless sound and enduring popularity, Journey remains a true powerhouse in the world of rock music.
1. Don’t Stop Believin
This iconic track from Journey is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its uplifting lyrics and catchy melody have made "The Power of Positive Thinking" an anthem for generations. The song's themes of perseverance and determination continue to inspire and empower people around the world. "Don’t Stop Believin'" is undoubtedly one of the most beloved songs in history, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal.
Continuing with our exploration of Journey's best songs, we come to "Any Way You Want It". This fast-paced rocker captures the band at their most energetic, showcasing their signature blend of hard rock and pop sensibility. With its memorable chorus and driving guitar riff, "Any Way You Want It" is a true fan favorite that never fails to get audiences moving.
One unique aspect of Journey's music is their ability to combine power ballads with hard rock anthems seamlessly. A prime example of this is "Open Arms", a classic love song that showcases Steve Perry's soulful vocals backed by some gentle piano notes. It's no surprise that this romantic tune became one of Journey's biggest hits, earning them their first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
It's interesting to note that despite being labelled as a 'rock' band, Journey has successfully incorporated elements from various genres such as pop, R&B and even jazz into their music over the years. For instance, Steve Perry's soaring vocals on "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" complemented by Neal Schon’s guitar licks that draw from blues-rock make it an unforgettable track.
I may not have faith in love, but I have faith in Journey's ability to make my heartache sound like a catchy tune with 'Faithfully'.
2. Faithfully
Faithfully by Journey is a timeless classic that speaks to the heart of lovers around the world. This iconic ballad is renowned for its soaring chorus, heartfelt lyrics and signature guitar solos. It celebrates the power of commitment, loyalty and devotion between two people in love. The song explores the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship and how it can be sustained by mutual trust and understanding. The emotional resonance of Faithfully makes it one of Journey's most beloved songs, striking a chord with fans across generations.
As one delves deeper into Faithfully, it becomes apparent that the song's true beauty lies in its simplicity. There are no complex arrangements or technical virtuosos here, just a pure expression of heartfelt sentimentality through music. Its poignant lyrics beautifully capture the essence of an enduring relationship, touching on themes like loneliness, longing and hopefulness.
Undoubtedly, Faithfully remains an all-time favorite among Journey fans worldwide for good reason. Not only does it stand as a shining example of rock-balladry at its best but also encapsulates our deep-seated yearning for meaningful connections.
It is worth noting that Jonathan Cain wrote "Faithfully" about the challenges he faced as a married man travelling with Journey on their tours which acknowledges his experiences as shared with Ultimate Classic Rock at their live show performance on May 2017. Looks like the wheel in the sky keeps on turning, but at least Steve Perry's vocals never get old.
3. Wheel in the Sky
This song talks about the never-ending journey of life, where the Wheel keeps moving and taking us forward. 'Wheel in the Sky' is a masterpiece that was released in 1978 by Journey, composed of Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Gregg Rolie, Ross Valory, and Aynsley Dunbar. This single aired on FM radio stations quite frequently during the late 1970s.
Journey's growth with popular sounds was entirely evident in this song. The perfect harmony between Stevie Perry’s voice and Neil Schon's guitar melody makes for an immensely satisfying listening experience. It talks about being stuck in a rut but having a hope that one day you'll find your way out despite feeling so lost.
The song lyrics successfully capture how life can be like a wheel constantly turning- taking you higher or bringing you down. A thing to note is this song is often played live as it has been favored by their fans for many years.
The iconic intro guitar riff and soulful singing make 'Wheel in the Sky' an enduring classic rock tune played on various media channels even today.
Any way you want it, except for on a long, slow train ride with a crying baby and no WiFi.
4. Any Way You Want It
This song's catchy riff and upbeat tempo make it a classic anthem for any rock fan – 'Any Way You Desire It'. The lyrics are simple but relatable, urging listeners to live their lives on their terms. As an iconic Journey hit, it still resonates with its universal message that has stood the test of time.
The guitar solo is also one of the highlights and demonstrates the band's trademark style. It's hard to resist singing along to the infectious chorus that makes this song an all-time favorite.
Interestingly, Steve Perry initially thought this track wouldn't do well as a single since there weren't enough hooks or melodies in it, yet he was happily proven wrong.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, 'Any Way You Want It' also played a significant role in inspiring Tom Cruise's famous air guitar scene in 'Risky Business.'
Overall, no matter how you choose to interpret this song's message – the sentiment is clear – live how you want, and don't let others dictate your path.
Open Arms is the perfect song to play for your long-distance lover, but beware, it may also induce tears and the urge to book the next flight out.
5. Open Arms
The song kicks off with a gentle piano riff and builds up slowly until it reaches its powerful chorus, where Steve Perry pours out his heart like never before. The guitar solo towards the end adds an extra layer of emotion to an already heart-wrenching track.
What sets 'Open Arms' apart from other love songs is how raw and genuine it is. There are no cheesy metaphors or overused clichés here; just an honest expression of love that strikes right at the core.
Interestingly enough, after being turned down by several record labels, 'Open Arms' became one of Journey's biggest hits and still remains a fan favorite today. It truly is a testament to the timelessness of both the band's music and this particular song.
Turns out, the only journey you need for a good time is with 'Lights' by your side.
6. Lights
The track that encapsulates the sixth spot in the list of '10 Best Journey Songs of All Time' is a euphoric and timeless classic that continues to captivate music lovers around the world. Here's an exhaustive breakdown of all there is to know about this iconic Journey number.
For those who may have forgotten, this memorable Journey song is entitled "Lights" and was released back in 1978 as part of their album, 'Infinity'. Known for its soaring instrumentals and exuberant lyrics, "Lights" has become a beloved anthem for many fans over the years.
To further understand the significance of "Lights," let us explore a table detailing some fascinating facts surrounding this wistful classic:
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Album | Infinity |
| Date Released | January 1978 |
| Songwriters | Steve Perry, Neal Schon |
| Producer | Roy Thomas Baker |
| Chart Performance | #68 (US Billboard Hot 100) |
What is particularly interesting about "Lights" is that it showcases Journey's early foray into more radio-friendly fare while still maintaining their signature rock sound. The song's themes of nostalgia and longing for home have touched many listeners throughout the years.
Interestingly enough, many claim that "Lights" was inspired by lead singer Steve Perry's own experiences growing up in Los Angeles. The song talks about how LA's bright lights served as a backdrop for his life – not only inspiring him but also providing comfort during tough times.
In any case, what we can say without question is that "Lights" remains one of Journey's most enduring classics, with no signs of losing its appeal moving forward.
Feeling That Way, like the time I accidentally took the wrong train and ended up in the middle of nowhere, but with better musical accompaniment.
7. Feeling That Way
This song captures the emotions of falling in love and the feeling of being unsure about it. It is a soulful ballad with a catchy chorus that leaves a lasting impact. The lyrics transport you to a place where you can feel all your emotions and give way to your thoughts. Each note hits you hard, making you reminisce about moments that fill up your heart. As one of Journey's finest pieces, "Feeling That Way" is an absolute gem that stands out in their entire discography.
Furthermore, the melody seamlessly glides from one line to another, and Steve Perry's vocals take it up a notch higher. The song's arrangement is meticulous, as the guitar solos blend perfectly with the rhythm section. This track marked the return of Journey's original members after their brief hiatus. Hence, it holds immense sentimental value to both fans and the band.
In addition, "Feeling That Way" showcased Journey's potential as an AOR powerhouse, becoming a chart-topping single. The sound engineering on this track sets it apart from other songs in its realm and adds more depth to its meaning.
According to Loudwire.com, "Feeling That Way" was among Rolling Stone's 100 Best Pop Songs ever made, cementing its legacy as one of Journey's most iconic tunes.
Overall, "Feeling That Way" brings forth an era when rock music was all about passion and musicianship while achieving commercial success- something that summarized Journey's musical journey in one single track! When listening to 'Stone In Love', it's best to buckle up and prepare for a journey full of heart-pounding rock and roll.
8. Stone In Love
This song by Journey called upon the emotional connection of lovers with a high-energy rocky beat, making it a fan favorite. The lyrics depict the highs and lows of love, resulting in a passionate and thoughtful performance from Steve Perry and his bandmates. 'Stone In Love' is an ideal song for nostalgic celebrations or romantic evenings with your significant other. It's a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
In addition, the incredible guitar work and infectious rhythm of 'Stone In Love' make it perfect for air-guitar renditions and sing-alongs. Alongside some of Journey's other hit songs, the track conjures memories of long journeys spent cranking out 80s rock anthems in cars amidst rose-tinted windows. 'Stone In Love' is an example of Journey's talent for crafting virtuosic rock tracks that hit audiences right in the feels.
For fans seeking an extra level of nostalgia from this track, check out several live versions of this song performed by Steve Perry during his solo career. The affectionate effect he has on the crowd leaves you feeling as if you're right there front and center enjoying his mesmerizing stage presence.
Pro Tip: For fans looking for maximum impact when playing 'Stone In Love,' use headphones so you can enjoy every little aspect of Journey's classic rock sound efficiently.
Breaking up has never sounded so good, thanks to Journey's 'Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)'.
9. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
This iconic Journey song, which features Steve Perry's soaring vocals, tells the story of lovers who both know they have to go their separate ways even though it pains them. The lyrics are powerful and emotive, with lines like "Two strangers learn to fall in love again, I get the joy of rediscovering you" resonating with many listeners. The instrumental arrangement is also impressive, with the guitar riffs and drumbeats perfectly complementing the heart-wrenching vocals.
One interesting fact about this song is that it was originally intended to be a ballad, but producer Kevin Elson suggested speeding up the tempo and adding more instrumentation to make it a rock anthem instead. This decision proved to be a stroke of genius as "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" became one of Journey's most beloved songs.
Fans continue to be captivated by its message of lost love and unfulfilled dreams. Listening to this song can transport you back in time and evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia. Overall, "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" captures the essence of what Journey does best – creating epic rock ballads that stand the test of time.
Don't miss out on experiencing this classic piece of music history – add "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" to your playlist today. You won't regret it!
If this song doesn't make you want to air guitar in the grocery store, you're shopping in the wrong aisle.
10. Lovin,’ Touchin,’ Squeezin
This classic track by Journey touches on the feeling of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that it can bring. With its soulful vocals and driving guitar riffs, it's no wonder "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" has become a fan favorite. It speaks to the heartache that so many people can relate to, making it an instant classic.
As one of Journey's most popular songs, "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" showcases the band's signature sound with Steve Perry's powerful voice leading the way. The lyrics are straightforward, but their universal appeal has made them a favorite among fans of all ages.
What sets this song apart from other ballads is its infectious energy. From the opening notes of the guitar riff to the soaring chorus, "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" is a song that demands your attention and keeps you hooked until the very end.
Listening to this track can transport you back in time to when rock music was at its peak, but it remains relevant even today. For those who have yet to experience this masterpiece, prepare to be blown away by one of Journey's finest offerings.
It is said that during a concert in San Francisco back in 1981, a woman attempted to climb on stage during "Lovin' Touching Squeezing", which led Steve Perry to laughingly say into the microphone "Oh we got a new dancer today!" before promptly being corrected by Neal Schon: "No she's not dancing Steve – she's trying to kill me!"
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
