Few voices in rock history are as iconic and instantly recognizable as Steve Perry’s. Known as the powerhouse vocalist behind Journey’s most legendary hits and a solo artist with a string of unforgettable tracks, Perry’s voice has become synonymous with emotional ballads, soaring anthems, and timeless melodies. Whether belting out arena-shaking choruses or delivering soul-stirring ballads, his ability to connect with millions of listeners through music is unmatched.
From his early days with Journey to his record-breaking solo career, Steve Perry has given us some of the most memorable songs in rock history. Tracks like “Don’t Stop Believin'” have become cultural landmarks, while others, like “Oh Sherrie,” showcase his raw talent as a solo artist. His music isn’t just about technical brilliance—it’s about heart, passion, and the stories behind every note.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Steve Perry songs of all time. These songs aren’t just fan favorites—they’re the tracks that define an era, evoke memories, and continue to inspire generations of listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, join us as we celebrate the unforgettable artistry of Steve Perry!
1. “Don’t Stop Believin'” (1981)
Released in October 1981 as part of Journey’s Escape album, “Don’t Stop Believin'” quickly became one of the most iconic rock anthems of all time. With Steve Perry’s soaring, emotive vocals leading the way, the song tells the story of a “small-town girl” and a “city boy” chasing their dreams—a narrative that resonates deeply with listeners across generations. Jonathan Cain’s signature piano riff and Neal Schon’s electric guitar solos add layers of intensity to the track, making it a timeless classic. Despite its initial release over four decades ago, “Don’t Stop Believin’” continues to be a cultural touchstone, regularly topping playlists, appearing in movies, TV shows, and even being a crowd favorite at karaoke nights worldwide. Its powerful message of perseverance and hope, paired with its unforgettable chorus, has made it synonymous with overcoming adversity, solidifying its place as one of the most enduring songs in rock history.
2. “Oh Sherrie” (1984)
Steve Perry’s debut solo single, “Oh Sherrie,” released in April 1984, marked a new chapter in his musical career outside of Journey. Inspired by his relationship with then-girlfriend Sherrie Swafford, the song features Perry’s powerful vocals and a catchy, emotionally charged melody. From the opening synth to the vibrant chorus, “Oh Sherrie” radiates energy and passion, making it a standout hit of the 1980s. The accompanying music video, which highlighted Perry’s magnetic on-screen presence, was a massive success on MTV, further fueling the song’s popularity. It blends rock and pop seamlessly, earning its place as one of the quintessential love anthems of the decade. Perry’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s irresistible hook continue to make “Oh Sherrie” a beloved track that fans return to again and again, showcasing his ability to craft timeless music that transcends genres.
3. “Faithfully” (1983)
Released in April 1983 as part of Journey’s Frontiers album, “Faithfully” is a deeply moving ballad that touches on the emotional struggles of balancing love and ambition, especially for those constantly on the road. Written by Journey’s keyboardist Jonathan Cain, the song’s simple yet powerful piano melody creates a perfect backdrop for Steve Perry’s heartfelt, soaring vocals. Perry’s emotive delivery, particularly his high notes, adds raw vulnerability to the lyrics, making the song an anthem for anyone facing the challenge of maintaining a relationship while chasing their dreams. The song remains a favorite among fans, its timeless message of devotion and loyalty resonating deeply with listeners decades after its release. “Faithfully” is a beautiful testament to the power of love, enduring not just in the hearts of Journey fans, but also as one of the most unforgettable ballads in rock history.
4. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” (1983)
Released in January 1983 as the lead single from Frontiers, “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” is a high-energy, hard-rock anthem that has become one of Journey’s signature songs. The track explores the heartache and emotional turmoil of a breakup, but also expresses the determination to move forward. Steve Perry’s commanding vocals drive the song, while the combination of aggressive guitar riffs and bold synthesizers gives it a dynamic, powerful sound. The song’s upbeat, yet emotionally charged chorus makes it a rallying cry for anyone dealing with personal challenges. Despite the accompanying music video’s campy, over-the-top style, the song itself remains a true rock powerhouse. It showcases Perry’s unparalleled vocal range and intensity, making it a favorite among fans and an unforgettable part of Journey’s catalog.
5. “Foolish Heart” (1984)
Steve Perry’s “Foolish Heart,” released in November 1984 on his solo album Street Talk, offers a departure from the high-energy rock songs he’s known for with Journey. This tender, soulful ballad takes a more introspective approach, exploring the vulnerability of opening oneself up to love again after heartache. With a smooth arrangement that features gentle keyboards and soothing melodies, the track perfectly complements Perry’s emotive voice. The song’s heartfelt lyrics, coupled with Perry’s sincere performance, create a deeply touching experience for listeners. “Foolish Heart” became a radio favorite and remains a fan-favorite ballad to this day. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to connect emotionally with listeners, offering an honest exploration of love, vulnerability, and healing.
6. “Open Arms” (1982)
Released in January 1982 as part of Journey’s Escape album, “Open Arms” is often considered one of the greatest love ballads in rock history. Co-written by Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain, the song features Perry’s impassioned vocals paired with a delicate piano arrangement. The lyrics express a sense of longing and vulnerability as Perry pleads for reconciliation, making it a deeply moving experience for anyone who has experienced the complexities of love. While the band initially had doubts about its softer approach, “Open Arms” went on to become a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its emotional depth and universal message of love have made it a wedding and concert staple, cementing its place as one of Journey’s most enduring and beloved songs.
7. “Any Way You Want It” (1980)
Released in February 1980 on the album Departure, “Any Way You Want It” is a lively and infectious anthem that epitomizes Journey’s ability to blend rock and pop accessibility. Co-written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon, the song features an upbeat rhythm, an irresistible guitar riff, and Perry’s electrifying vocals. Its energetic and playful lyrics make it the perfect crowd-pleaser, especially during live performances, where it becomes an instant hit with audiences. The song’s catchy hook and unrelenting energy helped solidify Journey’s place as a major force in rock, and it continues to be one of their most popular tracks. “Any Way You Want It” remains a testament to the band’s ability to craft songs that are both musically engaging and universally appealing.
8. “Who’s Crying Now” (1981)
Released in July 1981 on Journey’s Escape album, “Who’s Crying Now” is a soulful ballad that captures the pain of heartbreak with a sense of hope for eventual healing. Co-written by Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain, the song’s smooth piano melody and Schon’s emotive guitar solo create the perfect setting for Perry’s velvety, heartfelt vocals. The song’s introspective lyrics, which examine the aftermath of a breakup, resonated deeply with listeners. It became a hit on the Billboard charts, further cementing Journey’s place in rock history. “Who’s Crying Now” remains one of the band’s most memorable ballads, with its emotional depth and polished sound making it a fan favorite.
9. “Lights” (1978)
Released in August 1978 on Journey’s Infinity album, “Lights” is a love letter to San Francisco, capturing the nostalgia and longing of returning to a beloved city. Co-written by Steve Perry and Neal Schon, the song features Perry’s soulful vocals, which blend beautifully with the melodic guitar work. While the track didn’t achieve massive chart success upon its release, “Lights” has become a cherished fan favorite and a beloved anthem for Bay Area residents. Its smooth rhythm and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, offering a glimpse into Perry’s deep connection to the city that inspired the song.
10. “Send Her My Love” (1983)
Released in September 1983 on the Frontiers album, “Send Her My Love” is a bittersweet ballad that showcases Steve Perry’s emotional depth as a vocalist. The song tells the story of love lost but not forgotten, with Perry’s raw, heartfelt delivery capturing the ache of longing. The gentle synths and soft guitar strains create a hauntingly beautiful soundscape that complements the reflective lyrics. Perry’s ability to convey both vulnerability and strength adds to the song’s emotional weight, making it unforgettable. “Send Her My Love” is a gem in Journey’s catalog, a haunting track that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
Samuel Moore 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.
