Journey: Did You Know?

Fun Facts & Lesser-Known Stories About Journey

Journey is one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, known for their anthemic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,”“Faithfully,” and “Any Way You Want It.” With their blend of powerful vocals, soaring guitar solos, and heartfelt lyrics, the band captured the hearts of fans across the globe. While Journey’s music has transcended generations, there are many fun facts and lesser-known stories about the band that might surprise even their most dedicated fans. Let’s explore some fascinating tidbits about Journey!

1. Journey Was Formed by Former Members of Santana

Before Journey became the arena-rock powerhouse they are today, the band was founded by former members of Santana. In 1973, guitarist Neal Schon and keyboardist Gregg Rolie, both of whom had played with Santana, joined forces with bassist Ross Valory, drummer Aynsley Dunbar, and rhythm guitarist George Tickner to create a new band focused on instrumental rock and jazz fusion. While their early work was far more experimental than the radio-friendly hits they became known for, Journey’s formation as a supergroup of sorts gave them a strong musical foundation.

2. “Don’t Stop Believin’” Almost Didn’t Make It to the Album

One of Journey’s biggest songs, “Don’t Stop Believin’,” is now synonymous with the band, but it almost didn’t make it onto their 1981 album Escape. The song’s unusual structure, with its iconic chorus coming toward the end, made it an unconventional choice for a hit single. Initially, some members of the band and their label were unsure about its potential for radio play. However, Steve Perry (the band’s lead vocalist) believed in the song’s power, and after being included on Escape, it became one of the most enduring rock anthems in history. Today, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is the best-selling digital track from the 20th century.

3. The Journey Logo Was Created by a Famous Artist

Journey’s iconic scarab beetle logo, which has graced many of their album covers and concert posters, was designed by renowned fantasy artist Stanley Mouse. Mouse is famous for his work on psychedelic concert posters in the 1960s, particularly for bands like The Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane. He was commissioned to create the artwork for several Journey albums, including Escape and Frontiers. The beetle symbolized rebirth and transformation, reflecting the band’s evolution from their progressive rock roots to becoming arena rock legends.

4. Steve Perry Initially Hesitated to Join the Band

Although Steve Perry is considered the voice of Journey, he was initially reluctant to join the band. Journey had been performing as a progressive rock group with a jazz fusion sound, and Perry wasn’t sure his more soulful vocal style would fit with their music. However, after hearing demos of the band’s material and recognizing the potential to create a more melodic, accessible sound, Perry agreed to join in 1977. His addition completely transformed the band’s direction, and his soaring tenor helped them break into the mainstream.

5. They Struggled with Early Album Sales

Before Journey became one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, they faced a slow start. Their first three albums—Journey(1975), Look into the Future (1976), and Next (1977)—struggled commercially, and the band failed to find their footing with audiences. It wasn’t until Infinity (1978), their fourth album and the first to feature Steve Perry on vocals, that Journey finally began to see success. Infinity produced hits like “Lights” and “Wheel in the Sky,” signaling a shift toward a more radio-friendly sound that would soon define their career.

6. Their Touring Bus Once Caught Fire

Journey’s early touring days were not without their mishaps. On one of their early tours in the 1970s, the band’s tour bus caught fire while driving through the desert. Fortunately, the band members and crew were able to escape the vehicle without injury, but much of their equipment and personal belongings were lost in the blaze. Despite the setback, Journey’s resilience on the road helped solidify their bond as a band and prepared them for the long tours that would follow in the years to come.

7. Neal Schon Was Asked to Join Both Eric Clapton and the Eagles

Neal Schon, Journey’s virtuoso guitarist, had plenty of opportunities before committing fully to the band. Before joining Santana as a teenager, Schon was offered a spot in Eric Clapton’s band Derek and the Dominos—an offer he turned down to play with Santana. Later in the 1970s, after Journey’s early albums struggled, he was asked to join The Eagles, who were one of the biggest bands in the world at the time. Schon chose to stay with Journey, a decision that would lead to his defining role as the band’s lead guitarist and one of rock’s most respected musicians.

8. “Separate Ways” Was Inspired by a Real-Life Breakup

The powerful anthem “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” from Journey’s 1983 album Frontiers, was written by Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain and inspired by Perry’s personal experience with heartbreak. Perry had gone through a difficult breakup, and the song’s lyrics reflect the pain and frustration of trying to move on from a relationship. The song’s aggressive, driving beat and soaring chorus captured the raw emotion of love lost, making it one of Journey’s most intense and emotional tracks. It remains a fan favorite and one of the band’s most recognizable hits.

9. They Hold the Record for the Most Downloads in Digital History

Journey’s enduring popularity is reflected in their modern-day success. “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become the best-selling digital song from the pre-digital era, with over 7 million downloads in the U.S. alone. The song saw a resurgence in the 2000s, thanks to its inclusion in The Sopranos’ final episode and appearances in other shows and films like Glee and Rock of Ages. The song’s message of hope and perseverance continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, making it a timeless anthem.

10. Steve Perry Stepped Away Due to Health Issues

In the mid-1990s, Journey was set to embark on a tour after releasing their album Trial by Fire (1996). However, Steve Perry was dealing with severe hip pain, and after being diagnosed with a degenerative condition, he needed hip replacement surgery. Perry hesitated to undergo the procedure, which led to delays in the band’s tour plans. Eventually, Perry stepped away from the band, unable to continue with the rigors of touring. This decision led Journey to continue with other vocalists, most notably Arnel Pineda, who has fronted the band since 2007.

From their early struggles and lineup changes to becoming one of the biggest rock bands of all time, Journey’s story is one of perseverance, evolution, and timeless music. With their anthems of hope, love, and resilience, they’ve inspired generations of fans. Their ability to adapt and thrive, whether with Steve Perry or new frontmen, has cemented their legacy as rock legends whose music transcends time. One of Journey’s most meaningful song lines comes from their iconic song “Don’t Stop Believin’”:

"Don't stop believin', hold on to that feelin'."

This line has become a universal anthem of hope, resilience, and perseverance. It encourages listeners to stay positive and keep believing in their dreams, even when faced with challenges. The simplicity and optimism of the message have resonated with generations of fans, making it one of the most memorable and impactful lyrics in rock history. It embodies Journey's enduring message of holding on to faith, no matter what life throws your way.