Journey Embarks on Farewell Tour with Uncertain Future

The iconic rock band Journey is embarking on what is being called their farewell tour. This tour begins in September in Los Angeles and concludes in November in San Francisco, the city where the band originated.

Tour Details

Neal Schon, the band’s co-founder and lead guitarist, anticipates an emotional return home. “I’m sure it’s going to be somewhat emotional because that’s where it all started,” Schon stated. “I know the audience is going to be off the hook.” Before reaching San Francisco, the band has planned numerous performances in cities like Phoenix, Seattle, Chicago, Atlanta, Nashville, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Detroit, Boston, Cleveland, Denver, and Las Vegas.

The San Francisco concert will be the finale of over 100 shows this year. Journey often delivers performances that last more than two hours, incorporating lesser-known songs such as “Of a Lifetime” from the early ‘70s and tracks from the ‘80s album “Raised on Radio,” alongside their popular hits like “Faithfully.”

“I’m loving it because it’s the type of show I’ve been wanting to do with Journey,” says Schon.

Schon feels Journey stands apart from other ’80s bands, asserting, “I always felt like even though all those bands have contributed something that a lot of people like, we were much different. I thought musically we could go any place that we wanted to. And so now we’re doing that, finally.”

Members and Music

The current lineup includes singer Arnel Pineda, keyboardist Jason Derlatka, drummer Deen Castronovo, and bassist Todd Jensen. For some songs, Cain, Derlatka, and Castronovo add vocals, allowing Pineda to rest. Journey’s enduring anthem, “Don’t Stop Believin,’” has become a staple in various media, including the Broadway show “Rock of Ages,” the TV series “Glee,” and the film “Moneyball.”

“‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ has surpassed our expectations,” says Cain. “Every band wishes they had one and we have one.”

The band has a history of six Top 10 hits on the Billboard singles chart and eight albums in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200. Notably, 1981’s “Escape” reached No. 1. Band members observe that their music still reaches a broad audience, spanning five generations.

“I like to say Journey is certain music in uncertain times,” Cain comments. “Journey is a soundtrack to a lot of people’s lives.”

The Uncertain Future

Journey began in San Francisco during the era of vinyl records and has adapted through significant shifts in the music business, including CDs and streaming. Schon, once part of Carlos Santana’s band, recalls early tours opening for acts like Kiss and Jeff Beck. With dwindling income from streaming, touring remains the primary revenue source for bands.

“I feel bad for the new generation,” Cain notes. “I remember when I got a big old fat royalty check and they were playing our songs on the radio and that a new album meant you would sell more tickets.”

The concluding concert at the Chase Center on November 28 holds an air of unpredictability. Cain mentions the possibility of a reunion at the last show, though nothing is confirmed. The band’s future remains uncertain.

“I’m not nearly done with what I want to do,” Schon expresses, optimistic about future opportunities. “Whether or not it’s with everybody that’s here right now, I’m not certain.”