Journey is an iconic American rock band known for their distinctive blend of melodic rock, soaring vocals, and anthemic guitar riffs. Formed in San Francisco in 1973, the band rose to prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s with a string of hit albums and singles.
Journey’s sound is characterized by their intricate harmonies, catchy hooks, and memorable choruses, which helped define the arena rock sound of the era. The band’s lineup has undergone several changes over the years, with founding members Neal Schon on guitar and Ross Valory on bass joined by vocalist Steve Perry, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, and drummer Steve Smith during their most commercially successful period.
Journey’s breakthrough came with the release of their 1981 album “Escape,” which featured hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now.” These songs became anthems of the era and propelled the band to international superstardom. Journey continued to dominate the charts throughout the 1980s with albums like “Frontiers” and “Raised on Radio.”
Despite lineup changes and periods of hiatus, Journey’s music has remained a staple of classic rock radio and continues to attract new generations of fans. Their timeless hits and electrifying live performances have solidified their status as one of the most beloved and enduring bands in rock history.
1. Don’t Stop Believin’
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is an iconic rock anthem by the American band Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape.” Written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, the song has become one of the most recognizable and enduring hits in popular music history.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is characterized by its uplifting melody, catchy chorus, and inspirational lyrics. The song tells the story of a small-town girl and a city boy, both seeking to escape their mundane lives and pursue their dreams in the big city. With its universal message of hope, resilience, and never giving up on your dreams, “Don’t Stop Believin'” has resonated with audiences around the world for decades.
The song’s memorable piano intro, soaring vocals by Steve Perry, and electrifying guitar solos by Neal Schon have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite at sporting events, weddings, and karaoke nights. “Don’t Stop Believin'” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon and one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
2. Faithfully
“Faithfully” is a power ballad by the American rock band Journey, released in 1983 as the second single from their album “Frontiers.” Written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, the song is known for its heartfelt lyrics and emotional melody, capturing the essence of devotion and longing in relationships.
“Faithfully” is characterized by its tender piano intro, soulful vocals by Steve Perry, and soaring guitar solos by Neal Schon. The song’s lyrics express the challenges of life on the road as a musician, while also conveying a sense of unwavering commitment and loyalty to a loved one back home. The chorus, with its iconic line “I’m forever yours, faithfully,” has become a poignant declaration of love and devotion.
The song’s universal themes of love, sacrifice, and longing have resonated with audiences around the world, making “Faithfully” one of Journey’s most beloved and enduring songs. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic rock ballad.
“Faithfully” remains a staple of Journey’s live performances and continues to touch the hearts of listeners with its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, solidifying its place as one of the greatest love songs in rock music history.
3. Open Arms
“Open Arms” is a timeless power ballad by the American rock band Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape.” The song, written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, showcases the band’s signature blend of emotive melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and soaring vocals.
“Open Arms” is characterized by its gentle piano intro, delicate guitar work, and Steve Perry’s powerful vocal performance. The lyrics express vulnerability and longing, with the narrator reaching out to a loved one and expressing a desire for reconciliation and emotional connection. The chorus, with its evocative refrain “So now I come to you with open arms,” captures the universal longing for love and acceptance.
The song’s emotional resonance and universal themes have made it a favorite at weddings, proms, and other special occasions. “Open Arms” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
“Open Arms” remains one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved songs, captivating audiences with its heartfelt sincerity and timeless beauty. It continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, earning its place as one of the greatest love ballads in rock music history.
4. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a powerful rock anthem by the American band Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album “Frontiers.” The song was written by band members Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, and it quickly became one of Journey’s most recognizable and beloved hits.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics depict themes of heartbreak, loss, and the emotional turmoil of a relationship coming to an end. Steve Perry’s impassioned vocals convey a sense of longing and resignation, adding depth and emotion to the song.
With its anthemic chorus and infectious melody, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. The song’s memorable music video, featuring the band performing against a backdrop of industrial landscapes, further cemented its status as a classic of 1980s rock music.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” remains a staple of Journey’s live performances and a fan favorite, cherished for its powerful energy and timeless appeal. It continues to resonate with audiences around the world, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of rock music to evoke emotion and connect people across generations.
5. Wheel in the Sky
“Wheel in the Sky” is a classic rock song by the American band Journey, released in 1978 as part of their album “Infinity.” Written by band members Neal Schon, Robert Fleischman, and Diane Valory, the song is characterized by its driving rhythm, melodic guitar riffs, and soaring vocals.
“Wheel in the Sky” features introspective lyrics that explore themes of life’s uncertainties, journeying through unknown territories, and the search for meaning and purpose. Steve Perry’s powerful vocals add depth and emotion to the song, conveying a sense of longing and introspection.
With its infectious melody and anthemic chorus, “Wheel in the Sky” became one of Journey’s early hits, reaching the top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s timeless appeal has made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio stations.
“Wheel in the Sky” remains a standout track in Journey’s extensive discography, celebrated for its memorable hooks and evocative lyrics. It continues to resonate with listeners around the world, serving as a reminder of the band’s enduring legacy and their ability to create music that transcends generations.
6. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is a classic rock song by the American band Journey, released in 1979 as part of their album “Evolution.” The song, written by lead vocalist Steve Perry, explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and the pain of lost love.
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is characterized by its infectious melody, catchy guitar riffs, and memorable chorus. Steve Perry’s soulful vocals convey a range of emotions, from vulnerability to defiance, as he sings about the dissolution of a relationship.
With its driving rhythm and anthemic quality, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” became one of Journey’s most popular songs, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its relatable lyrics and universal themes struck a chord with audiences, making it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” remains a standout track in Journey’s extensive discography, celebrated for its infectious energy and emotional depth. It continues to resonate with listeners around the world, serving as a timeless reminder of the power of rock music to evoke emotion and connect people through shared experiences of love and loss.
7. Any Way You Want It
“Any Way You Want It” is a classic rock song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1980 as part of their album “Departure.” The song was written by lead vocalist Steve Perry and guitarist Neal Schon, and it quickly became one of the band’s most iconic and enduring tracks.
“Any Way You Want It” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and infectious energy. The song’s lyrics express a sense of freedom and spontaneity, with the narrator expressing a willingness to adapt and accommodate the desires of their partner. The chorus, with its anthemic refrain “Any way you want it, that’s the way you need it,” has become a rallying cry for fans of the band.
The song’s dynamic instrumentation, including Neal Schon’s electrifying guitar solos and Steve Perry’s powerful vocals, helped propel it to commercial success, reaching the top 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Any Way You Want It” has since become a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite at Journey’s live performances, captivating audiences with its irresistible groove and timeless appeal.
With its catchy melody and universal message of love and acceptance, “Any Way You Want It” remains one of Journey’s most beloved and celebrated songs, solidifying its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
8. Who’s Crying Now
“Who’s Crying Now” is a classic rock ballad by the American band Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape.” The song was written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, and it quickly became one of Journey’s most successful and enduring hits.
“Who’s Crying Now” is characterized by its soulful vocals, melodic guitar lines, and powerful chorus. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, heartache, and resilience, with Steve Perry’s emotive delivery conveying a sense of longing and determination.
With its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Who’s Crying Now” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s memorable music video, featuring the band performing against a backdrop of dramatic landscapes, further enhanced its popularity.
“Who’s Crying Now” remains a staple of Journey’s live performances and a fan favorite, cherished for its emotional depth and timeless appeal. It continues to resonate with audiences around the world, serving as a reminder of the band’s ability to create music that touches the heart and soul.
9. Send Her My Love
“Send Her My Love” is a poignant ballad by the American rock band Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album “Frontiers.” The song was written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, and it showcases the band’s ability to blend melodic rock with heartfelt lyrics.
“Send Her My Love” is characterized by its gentle piano intro, soulful guitar solos, and Steve Perry’s emotive vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man who regrets letting go of a past love and now wishes to reach out to her, despite the passage of time and distance. The chorus, with its haunting refrain “Send her my love, memories remain,” captures the bittersweet nostalgia of lost love.
The song’s emotional depth and universal themes have resonated with audiences around the world, making “Send Her My Love” one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved ballads. It has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic rock ballad.
“Send Her My Love” continues to touch the hearts of listeners with its heartfelt sincerity and timeless beauty, earning its place as one of the greatest love songs in Journey’s illustrious discography.
10. Stone in Love
“Stone in Love” is a rock song by the American band Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape.” The song was written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, and it showcases Journey’s signature blend of melodic rock and catchy hooks.
“Stone in Love” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, driving rhythm, and infectious guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics evoke themes of youthful romance, adventure, and the exhilarating feeling of being in love.
With its catchy melody and anthemic chorus, “Stone in Love” became a fan favorite and a staple of Journey’s live performances. The song’s dynamic instrumentation and Steve Perry’s emotive vocals captivated audiences, making it one of the standout tracks on the “Escape” album.
“Stone in Love” remains a beloved classic in Journey’s discography, celebrated for its infectious energy and timeless appeal. It continues to resonate with listeners around the world, serving as a reminder of the band’s ability to create music that captures the joy and excitement of being in love.
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.
