Steve Perry, the iconic voice behind Journey’s unforgettable hits, has etched his mark on rock history with his powerful vocals and emotive songwriting. Known for his soaring tenor and heartfelt delivery, Perry’s solo career further cemented his status as one of rock’s greatest singers. This article explores the top ten best songs of Steve Perry, showcasing his remarkable journey from his early days with Journey to his acclaimed solo work. From the anthemic “Don’t Stop Believin'” to the soul-stirring “Oh Sherrie,” Perry’s songs span a diverse range of styles, reflecting his versatility and emotional depth. His music continues to resonate with fans, blending rock, pop, and ballads in a way that only Perry can. Join us as we count down the definitive tracks that define Steve Perry’s storied career, celebrating his contribution to music and his enduring legacy as one of rock’s greatest voices.
1. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
“Loving’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is one of Steve Perry’s most iconic songs, solidifying his status as a rock legend. Released in 1979 as a single from Journey’s album “Evolution,” this track quickly became a fan favorite, reaching No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s powerful, emotive vocals showcase Perry’s extraordinary range and ability to convey deep emotional resonance, a signature of his musical style.
“Loving’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” is built around a bluesy, mid-tempo groove, with a memorable riff that underpins Perry’s soulful performance. The lyrics tell a classic tale of love and betrayal, with Perry lamenting a lover’s infidelity. His delivery is raw and heartfelt, drawing listeners into the narrative with an intensity that makes the song unforgettable.
The track’s climax is marked by the repetitive, sing-along “Na-na-na-na” section, which has become a defining moment in Journey’s live performances. This part of the song creates a communal experience, engaging audiences and ensuring its lasting appeal. The blend of rock, blues, and pop elements, combined with Perry’s distinct voice, makes “Loving’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans old and new.
2. Who’s Crying Now
“Who’s Crying Now” is another standout track in Steve Perry’s illustrious career, epitomizing his prowess as a vocalist and his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Released in 1981 as the lead single from Journey’s album “Escape,” the song quickly became a hit, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing Perry’s place in rock history.
The song opens with a haunting piano riff that sets a reflective tone, perfectly complementing Perry’s tender yet powerful voice. “Who’s Crying Now” tells the story of a troubled relationship, with lyrics that explore themes of heartache and reconciliation. Perry’s vocal delivery is poignant and nuanced, capturing the pain and complexity of love lost and found.
One of the song’s most memorable features is Neal Schon’s emotive guitar solo, which adds a layer of depth and intensity to the track. The interplay between Schon’s guitar work and Perry’s vocals creates a rich, textured sound that has captivated audiences for decades.
“Who’s Crying Now” is a masterclass in blending rock and ballad elements, showcasing Perry’s versatility as an artist. Its timeless appeal lies in its relatable lyrics, stirring melody, and the raw emotion that Perry brings to every note, making it a perennial favorite among fans.
3. Girl Can’t Help It
“Girl Can’t Help It” is a dynamic and captivating song that highlights Steve Perry’s exceptional vocal abilities and Journey’s knack for creating memorable rock anthems. Released in 1986 as a single from the album “Raised on Radio,” the track quickly garnered attention, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song opens with a powerful keyboard intro, setting an energetic tone that is sustained throughout. Perry’s voice soars effortlessly, delivering lyrics that tell the story of a girl who is irresistibly drawn to her passions and desires. The narrative captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the irresistible pull of destiny, themes that resonate with listeners of all ages.
“Girl Can’t Help It” stands out for its infectious chorus, where Perry’s vocal prowess is on full display. His ability to blend power and emotion creates a compelling performance that is both uplifting and poignant. The song is further enriched by Neal Schon’s electrifying guitar riffs and Jonathan Cain’s vibrant keyboard melodies, making it a showcase of Journey’s musical synergy.
The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a favorite in Journey’s discography. “Girl Can’t Help It” remains a testament to Steve Perry’s talent and the band’s ability to craft songs that are both musically intricate and widely appealing. Its enduring popularity is a tribute to its timeless charm and the emotional connection it fosters with audiences.
4. Don’t Stop Believin’
“Don’t Stop Believin'” is arguably Steve Perry’s most iconic song and a defining anthem of the rock genre. Released in 1981 as the lead single from Journey’s album “Escape,” the song has achieved legendary status, becoming a cultural touchstone and a staple of both radio and live performances.
The song opens with a memorable piano intro that builds anticipation before Perry’s soaring vocals take center stage. His performance is both powerful and heartfelt, delivering lyrics that tell the story of a small-town girl and a city boy, navigating life’s challenges and holding on to hope and dreams. The narrative captures a universal sense of perseverance and optimism, resonating deeply with listeners.
The chorus of “Don’t Stop Believin'” is one of the most recognizable in rock history, with its uplifting message and sing-along quality. Perry’s vocal delivery is both commanding and emotional, perfectly capturing the song’s spirit of resilience. The track’s guitar riffs, courtesy of Neal Schon, and its driving rhythm section further enhance its anthemic quality.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” has seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity over the years, thanks in part to its inclusion in various films, TV shows, and sporting events. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its powerful message and the exceptional talent of Steve Perry and Journey, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world.
5. Faithfully
“Faithfully” is one of Steve Perry’s most enduring and beloved songs, showcasing his exceptional ability to convey deep emotion through his music. Released in 1983 as a single from Journey’s album “Frontiers,” the song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its place as a classic ballad.
The song is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody, which Perry delivers with poignant sincerity. “Faithfully” tells the story of a musician’s struggle to balance the demands of a touring lifestyle with the commitment to a loved one back home. The lyrics explore themes of devotion, sacrifice, and longing, capturing the emotional complexity of maintaining a relationship while pursuing one’s dreams.
The song opens with a distinctive piano intro that sets a reflective tone, leading into Perry’s powerful vocal performance. His voice conveys a sense of yearning and dedication, while Neal Schon’s soaring guitar solo adds an emotional crescendo to the track. The combination of Perry’s vocal strength and the song’s evocative instrumentation creates a compelling and unforgettable listening experience.
“Faithfully” has become a staple in Journey’s live performances and continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Its timeless message and beautiful melody make it a quintessential love ballad, celebrated for its emotional depth and Perry’s exceptional artistry.
6. Open Arms
“Open Arms” is a quintessential Steve Perry ballad, renowned for its emotional depth and Perry’s powerful vocal delivery. Released in 1982 as a single from Journey’s album “Escape,” the song quickly became a classic, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a place among the band’s most beloved tracks.
The song opens with a gentle piano melody that sets a tender and reflective mood. Perry’s vocals are at their most emotive, delivering lyrics that express a heartfelt plea for reconciliation and understanding in a strained relationship. The lyrics capture the vulnerability and hope of longing for a loved one to return, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced love and loss.
“Open Arms” features a soaring chorus that showcases Perry’s remarkable range and emotional intensity. The arrangement builds gradually, with subtle instrumentation that allows Perry’s voice to take center stage, culminating in a powerful and uplifting climax. Neal Schon’s guitar work and Jonathan Cain’s keyboard contributions further enhance the song’s emotional impact.
The track has remained a staple in Journey’s live performances and continues to resonate with fans across generations. Its timeless message of unconditional love and forgiveness, combined with Perry’s unforgettable performance, ensures that “Open Arms” endures as one of the defining ballads of rock music.
7. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a dynamic and electrifying anthem that captures the essence of Steve Perry’s powerful vocals and Journey’s signature sound. Released in 1983 as the lead single from their album “Frontiers,” the song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its place in rock history.
The track opens with an unforgettable keyboard riff, setting an intense and driving tone that is maintained throughout. Perry’s vocal performance is both commanding and passionate, conveying the emotional turbulence of a relationship coming to an end. The lyrics explore themes of separation and perseverance, with a narrative that resonates with anyone who has faced challenges in their personal life.
“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is notable for its energetic tempo and powerful chorus, where Perry’s vocals soar over a backdrop of driving guitar riffs and a pulsating rhythm section. Neal Schon’s guitar work is particularly standout, adding a raw and edgy element to the track. The song’s infectious energy and catchy hooks have made it a favorite in Journey’s live performances and a staple of 1980s rock.
The song’s music video, featuring vibrant visuals and high-energy performance footage, further cemented its place in popular culture. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” remains a testament to Steve Perry’s vocal prowess and Journey’s ability to craft anthems that capture the spirit of their era, continuing to energize and inspire fans to this day.
8. Wheel in the Sky
“Wheel in the Sky” is a classic Journey track that highlights Steve Perry’s vocal prowess and the band’s distinctive rock sound. Released in 1978 as a single from their album “Infinity,” the song marked a significant turning point for the band and became a defining hit of their early era.
The track opens with a distinctive, driving guitar riff and a rhythmic beat that sets an energetic tone. Perry’s vocals are emotive and dynamic, delivering lyrics that explore themes of travel, change, and the passage of time. The song’s narrative reflects a sense of longing and the desire to keep moving forward despite life’s uncertainties.
“Wheel in the Sky” is known for its catchy chorus and memorable melody, which are complemented by Neal Schon’s powerful guitar solos and the band’s tight rhythm section. The song’s arrangement blends rock with a touch of blues, showcasing Journey’s versatility and their ability to craft songs that resonate with a wide audience.
The track received significant airplay and became one of Journey’s early hits, helping to establish the band’s reputation and paving the way for their future success. “Wheel in the Sky” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Journey’s live performances, celebrated for its engaging melody and the raw energy that Steve Perry and the band bring to the track.
9. Send Her My Love
“Send Her My Love” is a heartfelt ballad by Journey that showcases Steve Perry’s exceptional vocal talent and the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant music. Released in 1983 as a single from their album “Frontiers,” the song achieved commercial success, reaching No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The track opens with a tender piano intro, setting a reflective and intimate mood. Perry’s vocals are soulful and impassioned, delivering lyrics that convey a deep sense of longing and regret over a failed relationship. The narrative centers around a heartfelt plea to reconnect with a loved one, emphasizing themes of love, separation, and yearning.
“Send Her My Love” is notable for its beautifully crafted chorus, where Perry’s voice reaches a poignant crescendo. The song’s arrangement is complemented by Neal Schon’s melodic guitar work and Jonathan Cain’s keyboard contributions, which enhance the emotional depth of the track. The orchestral backing adds a lush texture, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.
The song has been praised for its emotional sincerity and the strength of Perry’s performance, making it a standout in Journey’s discography. “Send Her My Love” continues to be cherished by fans for its timeless appeal and the genuine emotion that Steve Perry brings to every note.
10. Be Good to Yourself
“Be Good to Yourself” is an energetic and empowering anthem from Journey, highlighted by Steve Perry’s commanding vocals and the band’s signature rock sound. Released in 1986 as a single from their album “Raised on Radio,” the song achieved notable success, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The track opens with a punchy guitar riff and a driving beat, setting an upbeat and motivating tone. Perry’s vocal performance is both vibrant and assertive, delivering lyrics that encourage self-care and resilience. The message of the song revolves around taking care of oneself and embracing personal strength, making it a powerful and uplifting anthem.
“Be Good to Yourself” is marked by its catchy chorus and memorable melody, which are bolstered by Neal Schon’s dynamic guitar work and the band’s robust rhythm section. The song’s arrangement combines rock elements with a touch of pop, creating an infectious sound that resonates with a wide audience.
The song’s energetic vibe and positive message have made it a fan favorite and a staple in Journey’s live performances. “Be Good to Yourself” continues to inspire and uplift listeners with its message of self-empowerment and the enduring talent of Steve Perry and the band.