Journey is an American rock band formed in 1973 in San Francisco. They’re known for their catchy melodies, anthemic choruses, and the powerful vocals of lead singers like Steve Perry and later Arnel Pineda.
Their breakout album, “Infinity” (1978), marked a significant turning point, introducing Steve Perry as their lead vocalist and bringing about a more polished, radio-friendly sound. Hits like “Wheel in the Sky” and “Lights” helped cement their place in rock history.
However, it was their album “Escape” (1981) that catapulted them to superstardom. With iconic tracks like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now,” they became one of the defining bands of the 1980s rock scene.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Journey has remained a force in the music industry, continuing to tour and release new material. Their music has become a staple of classic rock radio and has found new audiences through its use in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
1. Don’t Stop Believin’
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is a classic rock song by the American band Journey, released in 1981. It’s known for its uplifting lyrics, catchy melody, and iconic keyboard riff.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a small-town girl and a city boy who meet on a train bound for anywhere, emphasizing themes of hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Don’t stop believin’,” serves as a motivational anthem, encouraging listeners to hold on to their aspirations despite the challenges they may face.
Musically, “Don’t Stop Believin'” features a memorable keyboard intro played by Jonathan Cain, followed by a driving rhythm section and soaring vocals by Steve Perry. The song builds to a powerful crescendo, with a memorable guitar solo and an infectious energy that has made it a staple of classic rock radio and stadium sing-alongs.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” has achieved enduring popularity and has been featured prominently in popular culture, including numerous television shows, films, and commercials. It’s considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time and remains a favorite among audiences of all ages.
2. Faithfully
“Faithfully” is another classic hit by Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album “Frontiers.” It’s a power ballad that showcases the band’s knack for crafting emotionally resonant songs.
The lyrics of “Faithfully” speak to the challenges and sacrifices of life on the road as a musician, expressing the commitment to remaining faithful to loved ones despite the demands of touring. Steve Perry’s soulful vocals combined with the heartfelt melody create a poignant and heartfelt anthem.
The song became a staple of Journey’s live performances and remains one of their most beloved tracks. Its timeless theme of love, loyalty, and devotion has made it a favorite for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions.
3. Any Way You Want It
“Any Way You Want It” is another classic song by Journey, released in 1980 as part of their album “Departure.” It’s known for its energetic tempo, catchy melody, and memorable chorus.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of freedom and spontaneity, with the narrator expressing a willingness to adapt and accommodate the desires of their romantic interest. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Any way you want it, that’s the way you need it,” emphasizes a sense of flexibility and openness to whatever the other person desires.
Musically, “Any Way You Want It” features a driving beat, lively guitar riffs, and powerful vocals by Steve Perry. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it a favorite for fans of classic rock and has contributed to its enduring popularity.
“Any Way You Want It” has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials over the years, further solidifying its place in popular culture. It remains a staple of Journey’s live performances and is often cited as one of the band’s signature songs.
4. Open Arms
“Open Arms” is a power ballad by Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape.” It’s one of the band’s most well-known and beloved songs, renowned for its emotional lyrics and soaring melodies.
The song’s lyrics express vulnerability and longing, with the narrator professing their deep love and willingness to open their heart to their romantic interest. The chorus, with its poignant refrain of “So now I come to you with open arms,” captures the sentiment of offering oneself fully and without reservation.
Musically, “Open Arms” features a gentle piano introduction followed by lush instrumentation, including guitars, keyboards, and Steve Perry’s powerful vocals. The song builds to a dramatic climax, showcasing Perry’s vocal range and the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant music.
“Open Arms” became a commercial success, reaching high chart positions and receiving extensive airplay on radio stations around the world. It’s often cited as one of the greatest power ballads of all time and remains a favorite for fans of Journey and classic rock alike.
5. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a rock song by Journey, released in 1983 as a single from their album “Frontiers.” It’s recognized for its energetic tempo, catchy chorus, and iconic keyboard riff.
Lyrically, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” explores themes of heartbreak and the end of a romantic relationship. The lyrics depict a sense of longing and resignation as the narrator acknowledges the need to go their separate ways despite still feeling a connection. The chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Someday love will find you, break those chains that bind you,” expresses hope for a future reconciliation.
Musically, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” features a driving beat, powerful guitar riffs, and prominent keyboards, courtesy of Jonathan Cain. The song’s dynamic instrumentation and infectious energy make it a standout track in Journey’s discography.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” achieved commercial success, reaching high chart positions and receiving significant airplay on rock radio stations. The accompanying music video, featuring the band performing against a backdrop of futuristic imagery, further enhanced the song’s popularity.
Decades after its release, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” remains a fan favorite and is often included in Journey’s live performances. It’s regarded as one of the band’s signature songs and a classic of 1980s rock music.
6. Wheel in the Sky
“Wheel in the Sky” is a classic rock song by Journey, released in 1978 as part of their album “Infinity.” It’s one of the band’s earlier hits and helped solidify their reputation as a rising force in the rock music scene of the late 1970s.
The song features a driving beat, melodic guitar riffs, and Steve Perry’s powerful vocals. Its enigmatic lyrics, written by Journey’s keyboardist Gregg Rolie along with Neal Schon and Diane Valory, evoke a sense of journeying into the unknown and searching for meaning.
“Wheel in the Sky” was a moderate success upon its release but gained more popularity over time, becoming a staple of classic rock radio. Its catchy chorus and memorable guitar work have made it a fan favorite and a regular inclusion in Journey’s live performances.
7. Who’s Crying Now
“Who’s Crying Now” is a classic rock ballad by Journey, released in 1981 as a single from their album “Escape.” It’s known for its emotive lyrics, powerful vocals, and melodic instrumentation.
Lyrically, “Who’s Crying Now” explores themes of heartache and resilience in the face of romantic turmoil. The lyrics depict a relationship in turmoil, with the narrator expressing uncertainty about the future and questioning who will be the one to suffer in the end. The chorus, with its poignant refrain of “Who’s crying now?,” captures the emotional intensity of the song and underscores its central theme of emotional vulnerability.
Musically, “Who’s Crying Now” features a lush arrangement, with a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, keyboards, and Steve Perry’s distinctive vocals. The song builds to a powerful climax, with a soaring guitar solo and a memorable hook that showcases the band’s musical prowess.
“Who’s Crying Now” was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions and receiving extensive airplay on radio stations around the world. It remains one of Journey’s most beloved songs and is often cited as a standout track in their discography.
The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its status as a classic of 1980s rock music, and it continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
8. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is a classic rock song by Journey, released in 1979 as part of their album “Evolution.” It’s a gritty, blues-influenced track that showcases the band’s versatility and Steve Perry’s distinctive vocals.
The song features a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riff, complemented by Perry’s impassioned singing. Its lyrics tell the story of a romantic betrayal, with Perry lamenting the loss of his lover to another man. The refrain, “Lovin’, touchin’, squeezin’, each other,” highlights the physical and emotional intimacy that has been lost.
Despite its somewhat melancholic subject matter, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” has an infectious energy that has made it a favorite among Journey fans. Its memorable melody and catchy chorus have ensured its enduring popularity and status as one of the band’s signature songs.
9. Lights
“Lights” is a song by the American rock band Journey, released in 1978 as part of their album “Infinity.” It’s one of Journey’s early hits and is known for its catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics.
The song’s lyrics reflect on the band’s hometown of San Francisco, particularly its nighttime skyline and the memories associated with the city. The narrator reminisces about driving through the city streets and gazing at the lights, which evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia.
Musically, “Lights” features a melodic guitar riff, lush keyboard layers, and Steve Perry’s soulful vocals. The song has a mellow and atmospheric quality that captures the mood of the lyrics, while also showcasing the band’s musical craftsmanship.
“Lights” became a radio hit, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, where it received significant airplay. It remains one of Journey’s most beloved songs and is often performed at their concerts. Its enduring popularity has solidified its status as a classic rock staple and a symbol of the band’s early success.
10. Send Her My Love
“Send Her My Love” is a power ballad by Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album “Frontiers.” It’s a poignant and emotionally charged song that showcases the band’s talent for crafting heartfelt ballads.
The lyrics of “Send Her My Love” depict the feelings of longing and regret experienced by someone who is separated from their loved one. Steve Perry’s emotive vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and yearning as he sings about sending his love to someone who is far away.
The song is characterized by its atmospheric keyboard intro and melodic guitar solos, creating a lush and evocative musical backdrop. Its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences, making it one of Journey’s most beloved ballads.
“Send Her My Love” continues to be a fan favorite and a staple of Journey’s live performances. Its timeless themes of love and longing have ensured its enduring appeal over the years.
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.
