Steve Perry is an American singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Journey. Born on January 22, 1949, Perry joined Journey in 1977 and became the band’s frontman during their most commercially successful period.
During his time with Journey, Steve Perry’s distinctive voice and powerful performances contributed to the band’s chart-topping success. Some of Journey’s biggest hits featuring Perry on vocals include “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Wheel in the Sky,” and “Any Way You Want It.” Perry’s vocal range, emotive delivery, and stage presence made him one of the most iconic rock singers of the 1980s.
In addition to his work with Journey, Steve Perry also released solo albums. His debut solo album, “Street Talk,” was released in 1984 and produced hits like “Oh Sherrie” and “Foolish Heart.” Perry’s solo career showcased his versatility as a vocalist and songwriter, and his solo albums achieved commercial success as well.
Despite his immense popularity, Steve Perry took a hiatus from the music industry in the late 1990s. He made a return to music in the 2010s, releasing new solo material and collaborating with other artists. Perry’s contributions to rock music have earned him accolades and recognition from fans and peers alike, solidifying his legacy as one of the most iconic voices in rock history.
1. Don’t Stop Believin’
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is a song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1981 as the lead single from their album “Escape.” The song was written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is one of Journey’s most iconic and enduring songs, known for its anthemic chorus, catchy melody, and inspirational lyrics. The song’s message of hope, perseverance, and optimism resonated with audiences and helped propel it to become one of the most popular and recognizable songs in rock music history.
The song’s memorable opening piano riff, powerful vocals by Steve Perry, and driving rhythm section contributed to its commercial success. “Don’t Stop Believin'” reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a timeless classic, beloved by fans of all ages.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. It is often played at sporting events, graduations, and other celebratory occasions, further cementing its status as an anthem of perseverance and triumph.
2. Oh Sherrie
“Oh Sherrie” is a classic rock song by the American singer-songwriter Steve Perry. Released in 1984 as a single from his debut solo album “Street Talk,” the song was written by Perry himself along with American songwriter Randy Goodrum.
“Oh Sherrie” is characterized by its infectious melody, catchy chorus, and Steve Perry’s powerful vocals. The song features a dynamic arrangement with driving guitars, energetic drums, and melodic keyboards, creating a memorable and uplifting sound.
Lyrically, “Oh Sherrie” tells the story of a passionate and tumultuous romance. The lyrics convey the narrator’s intense feelings for Sherrie and his longing to be with her, despite the challenges they face. Perry’s emotive vocals bring the emotional depth of the song to life, capturing the excitement and vulnerability of love.
“Oh Sherrie” became one of Steve Perry’s most successful solo hits, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning critical acclaim. Its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, making it a favorite among fans of classic rock.
With its memorable chorus and Steve Perry’s soaring vocals, “Oh Sherrie” remains a classic in Perry’s catalog and a beloved song in the realm of 1980s rock music. Its enduring popularity continues to captivate listeners, cementing its status as one of Perry’s most iconic songs.
3. Faithfully
“Faithfully” is a power ballad by the American rock band Journey. Released in 1983 as the second single from their album “Frontiers,” the song was written by Jonathan Cain, the keyboardist of Journey.
“Faithfully” is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and emotive vocals by lead singer Steve Perry. The song features a slow tempo and a powerful arrangement with lush keyboards, melodic guitar lines, and a driving rhythm section.
Lyrically, “Faithfully” explores themes of love, commitment, and loyalty. The lyrics convey the challenges of life on the road as a touring musician and the dedication to maintaining a relationship despite the distance and hardships. Perry’s heartfelt delivery adds depth and emotion to the song, capturing the sincerity and devotion of the narrator.
“Faithfully” became one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved songs, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. It reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a staple of classic rock radio.
With its timeless appeal and universal message, “Faithfully” remains a favorite among fans of Journey and a defining song in the realm of rock ballads. Its emotive lyrics and powerful melodies continue to resonate with audiences, making it one of the band’s most iconic and enduring compositions.
4. Open Arms
“Open Arms” is a song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1981 on their album “Escape.” It was written by band members Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain.
“Open Arms” is a power ballad known for its heartfelt lyrics, soaring melody, and emotional delivery. The song features a lush arrangement with piano, strings, and acoustic guitar, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
The lyrics of “Open Arms” express vulnerability and longing, with the narrator expressing a desire to be reunited with a loved one and offering unconditional love and support. Steve Perry’s powerful vocals, particularly during the song’s climactic moments, contribute to its emotional impact.
“Open Arms” became one of Journey’s most successful songs, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It has since become a classic rock ballad and is frequently included in lists of the greatest love songs of all time.
The song’s timeless appeal and universal themes of love and longing have made it a favorite for weddings, proms, and other romantic occasions. It remains one of Journey’s most beloved and enduring songs, showcasing their talent for crafting memorable and emotionally resonant music.
5. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a rock song by the American rock band Journey. Released in 1983 as the lead single from their album “Frontiers,” the song was written by band members Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is characterized by its energetic and driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and powerful vocals by lead singer Steve Perry. The song features a dynamic arrangement with a pulsating beat, melodic keyboard lines, and soaring guitar solos.
Lyrically, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” explores themes of heartbreak, longing, and the end of a relationship. The lyrics convey the pain of a breakup and the feelings of loneliness and isolation that come with it. Perry’s emotive delivery adds depth and emotion to the song, capturing the raw intensity of the emotions involved.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” became one of Journey’s most popular and enduring songs, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning critical acclaim. Its infectious energy and anthemic chorus have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock.
With its powerful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” remains a classic in Journey’s catalog and a staple of rock radio. Its enduring popularity continues to resonate with audiences, making it one of the band’s most iconic and memorable compositions.
6. Foolish Heart
“Foolish Heart” is a song by Steve Perry, released in 1984 as the third single from his debut solo album “Street Talk.” Steve Perry co-wrote the song with Randy Goodrum.
“Foolish Heart” is a power ballad characterized by its heartfelt lyrics, emotive vocals, and soaring melody. The song features a lush arrangement with piano, synthesizers, and electric guitars, creating a romantic and dramatic atmosphere.
The lyrics of “Foolish Heart” explore themes of heartache, longing, and vulnerability, with the narrator expressing regret over past mistakes and pleading for forgiveness. Steve Perry’s soulful vocals convey a sense of emotional depth and sincerity, adding to the song’s impact.
“Foolish Heart” was a commercial success, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also received significant airplay on adult contemporary radio stations and remains one of Steve Perry’s most popular solo songs.
The song’s timeless appeal and universal themes have made it a favorite among fans of Steve Perry’s music and classic rock ballads in general. “Foolish Heart” showcases Perry’s talent as a singer and songwriter and remains a standout track in his solo career.
7. When You Love a Woman
“When You Love a Woman” is a soft rock ballad by the American rock band Journey. Released in 1996 as the lead single from their album “Trial by Fire,” the song was written by band members Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon.
“When You Love a Woman” is characterized by its tender melody, emotive vocals, and lush instrumentation. The song features a romantic and heartfelt arrangement with gentle piano chords, soaring guitar solos, and Steve Perry’s soulful vocals.
Lyrically, “When You Love a Woman” explores the complexities and depth of romantic love. The lyrics convey the intense emotions and vulnerability that come with loving someone deeply, as well as the commitment to support and cherish them through the ups and downs of life.
“When You Love a Woman” became one of Journey’s most successful and enduring songs, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning critical acclaim. Its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions.
With its timeless appeal and universal message, “When You Love a Woman” remains a classic in Journey’s repertoire and a beloved song in the realm of soft rock ballads. Its enduring popularity continues to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as one of the band’s most iconic and memorable compositions.
8. Forever Right Or Wrong
“Forever Right or Wrong” is a song by Steve Perry from his second solo studio album, “For the Love of Strange Medicine,” released in 1994. The song was written by Steve Perry, Paul Taylor, and Lincoln Brewster.
“Forever Right or Wrong” is a rock ballad that showcases Steve Perry’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The song features heartfelt lyrics about love and devotion, with Perry expressing a commitment to stand by his partner through thick and thin, regardless of the challenges they may face.
With its melodic hooks and memorable chorus, “Forever Right or Wrong” captures the essence of Perry’s signature sound and style. The song’s uplifting message of enduring love resonated with fans and helped solidify Perry’s reputation as one of the premier vocalists in rock music.
Although “Forever Right or Wrong” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a standout track on the album “For the Love of Strange Medicine.” The song’s timeless appeal and emotional resonance continue to endear it to listeners and showcase Perry’s enduring talent as a singer-songwriter.
9. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is a rock song by the American rock band Journey. Released in 1979 as the third single from their album “Evolution,” the song was written by lead singer Steve Perry.
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is characterized by its catchy melody, driving rhythm, and powerful vocals by Steve Perry. The song features a dynamic arrangement with rocking guitar riffs, pulsating basslines, and energetic drumming.
Lyrically, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” tells the story of a relationship gone wrong. The lyrics convey the narrator’s frustration and heartache as they come to terms with the end of a romance. Despite the pain, there’s a sense of determination and resilience as the narrator expresses a willingness to move on and find love again.
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” became one of Journey’s most popular and enduring songs, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Its infectious energy and memorable chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
With its catchy hooks and anthemic vibe, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” remains a classic in Journey’s catalog and a beloved song among fans of rock music. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as one of the band’s most iconic and enduring compositions.
10. Lights
“Lights” is a song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1978 on their album “Infinity.” It was written by Journey’s lead vocalist, Steve Perry, along with guitarist Neal Schon and keyboardist Gregg Rolie.
“Lights” is a soft rock ballad that features a mellow, acoustic guitar-driven melody and introspective lyrics. The song reflects on Perry’s experiences growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, particularly in the city of San Francisco itself. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, as Perry reminisces about the city lights and the memories associated with them.
“Lights” became one of Journey’s most beloved and enduring songs, despite not being released as a single at the time of the album’s release. It received significant airplay on FM radio stations and became a fan favorite, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area where the band originated.
In later years, “Lights” was released as a single and became a chart success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song remains a staple of Journey’s live performances and is often considered one of their signature songs. Its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, making it a classic of rock music.
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.
