ECL1PS3 PRESS RELEASE

[Don]

Andrew, What about the "new markets"?

I would say that Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala and Panama certainly qualify as "new markets."

Because of the amount of blatant piracy (and half of the populations there living below the poverty line), Central and South America end up combining for less than 5% of world music sales. Queen, Iron Maiden, Rush, etc. tour there exclusively for the big gate from Stadium shows, not so much for album sales. New Markets for touring the greatest hits? Sure. For new album sales? Ehh, I guess.

[donnaplease]

JOURNEY, one of the most popular American rock bands of all

A few years ago using terms like "American" when describing this band lead to accusations of racism...

[Saint John]

JOURNEY, one of the most popular American rock bands of all

A few years ago using terms like "American" when describing this band lead to accusations of racism...

You're oversimplifying a complex topic. While you're correct in a small way, you're also wrong in a much larger sense. Arguing that an American band seems odd fronted by an Asian is a legit and arguable topic, but it's not that that led to the chorus of boos. It was the photoshopping, veiled slurs and outright nastiness that caused a scene on here. And no one can deny that.

[donnaplease]

JOURNEY, one of the most popular American rock bands of all

A few years ago using terms like "American" when describing this band lead to accusations of racism...

You're oversimplifying a complex topic. While you're correct in a small way, you're also wrong in a much larger sense. Arguing that an American band seems odd fronted by an Asian is a legit and arguable topic, but it's not that that led to the chorus of boos. It was the photoshopping, veiled slurs and outright nastiness that caused a scene on here. And no one can deny that.

Oh yes, I can deny it. My simple statement that IMO Journey was an "American" band and should be fronted by an American led to immediate charges of racism. I have never photoshopped anything and frankly I'm not witty enough to come up with some of the stuff that I've seen here and elsewhere, yet my comments were responded to with accusations that had nothing to do with my personal preference for a lead singer. As far as nastiness goes, you of all people must admit that there is more than enough of that to go around when it comes to members of this band, past and present.

[steveo777]

Journey is a world band with American roots.

[Saint John]

Oh yes, I can deny it. My simple statement that IMO Journey was an "American" band and should be fronted by an American led to immediate charges of racism. I have never photoshopped anything and frankly I'm not witty enough to come up with some of the stuff that I've seen here and elsewhere, yet my comments were responded to with accusations that had nothing to do with my personal preference for a lead singer. As far as nastiness goes, you of all people must admit that there is more than enough of that to go around when it comes to members of this band, past and present.

Fair enough. Again, you can oversimplify it and declare what *you* did and didn't do, but I was speaking in terms of the overall tone at one time. And as far as other members, past and present, goes, I really don't recall any of their ethnicities being torn to shreds. When the guys deserve shit, they desrve shit, and I and others led the charge when they deserved it. But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

[Saint John]

Andrew, What about the "new markets"?

I would say that Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala and Panama certainly qualify as "new markets."

Because of the amount of blatant piracy (and half of the populations there living below the poverty line), Central and South America end up combining for less than 5% of world music sales. Queen, Iron Maiden, Rush, etc. tour there exclusively for the big gate from Stadium shows, not so much for album sales. New Markets for touring the greatest hits? Sure. For new album sales? Ehh, I guess.

Wow ... Journey will be hitting about 18 of the 20 countries on that list in the next 2 years.

[RedWingFan]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

[Saint John]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

It's an observation, moron. I've donated to his charity, just like I do about a handful of others each year. And I try to do some research to make sure the money goes where it's needed. "Just about the music" was a reference as to whether or not I go to see them in concert or not.

[donnaplease]

Oh yes, I can deny it. My simple statement that IMO Journey was an "American" band and should be fronted by an American led to immediate charges of racism. I have never photoshopped anything and frankly I'm not witty enough to come up with some of the stuff that I've seen here and elsewhere, yet my comments were responded to with accusations that had nothing to do with my personal preference for a lead singer. As far as nastiness goes, you of all people must admit that there is more than enough of that to go around when it comes to members of this band, past and present.

Fair enough. Again, you can oversimplify it and declare what *you* did and didn't do, but I was speaking in terms of the overall tone at one time. And as far as other members, past and present, goes, I really don't recall any of their ethnicities being torn to shreds. When the guys deserve shit, they desrve shit, and I and others led the charge when they deserved it. But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get... And let's not forget that even those who claim to be Arnel's fans now shared in that shredding at one time.

You say that I'm oversimplifying, yet you take my very specific comment and make a generalization about it. I just chose to point out the irony of how people use that "american band" moniker when it's convenient, and when it's not accuse people of something as horrible as racism. If I remember correctly (and I do, because it was something personal to me), that sentiment was not only used on these message boards by people like Fyre and Susie, but also in some of the media driven by the band discussing the hiring of Arnel.

I'm glad you're so enamored of Arnel now, and I agree he seems to be all the things you described. I'm sure his life experience has been a huge factor in his attitude and the way he's reacting to his current circumstances, and that's admirable.

[Saint John]

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get...

I agree with everything you said but what I quoted. Herbie, Neal, Jon, Greg, Ross and Smitty all think the guy's a tool. Because he is!

[donnaplease]

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get...

I agree with everything you said but what I quoted. Herbie, Neal, Jon, Greg, Ross and Smitty all think the guy's a tool. Because he is!

Takes one to know one I guess...

[Saint John]

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get...

I agree with everything you said but what I quoted. Herbie, Neal, Jon, Greg, Ross and Smitty all think the guy's a tool. Because he is!

Takes one to know one I guess...

I would agree with that assertion if Smitty and Greg weren't on that list. I can see Neal being a bitch to work with. The guy admitted being drunk for about 30 years. But that is sort of impressive!

[SteveForever]

Mellie, I'm lookin at Tampa. whatcha think? maybe we can get GS to go with. AND catch one of his shows as well? I can't do the Texas dates or Chicago.

I wish San Antonio hadn't closed our amphitheater. Now we're getting skipped.

wow, its closed? that's terrible!

[Arkansas]

Journey is a world band with American roots.

And this is precisely what they need to complete before they lay it all to rest.
Hopefully, that's the plan.

And what I mean, is if Journey will ever break the stigma of 'corporate rock', then they need to be a world-type band. No, unfortunately, they'll never be Beatles, Zeppelins, or Stones, but still they can be much bigger than mere 80s corporate rock.

I doubt this world thing was ever the initial thought with bringing-on AP, but now that they've exploited it (& Augeri being a NY'er), then have no choice but to milk it as big & heavily as they can.


later~

[donnaplease]

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get...

I agree with everything you said but what I quoted. Herbie, Neal, Jon, Greg, Ross and Smitty all think the guy's a tool. Because he is!

Takes one to know one I guess...

I would agree with that assertion if Smitty and Greg weren't on that list. I can see Neal being a bitch to work with. The guy admitted being drunk for about 30 years. But that is sort of impressive!

Show me where Smitty or Gregg have negatively commented on SP related to *current* times, not what happened in the 80's or 90's. Betcha can't do it! Other than "Mr. Fuck'im" I'm not sure any of them have. And the people who are currently in his life seem to think he's a great guy. You sure do have selective memory when it comes to these guys, and cherry-pick which personality traits you admire. Sheesh!!!

[Saint John]

Show me where Smitty or Gregg have negatively commented on SP related to *current* times, not what happened in the 80's or 90's. Betcha can't do it!

If you were with me when I talked to Smitty you wouldn't need an explanation. Greg? That dude is all into peace and love. He was probably the first one to figure out that working with that dude wasn't worth the hassle. Ironically, an "injury":roll: thwarted his brief return to Journey, along with Chalfant, so I doubt his opinion has changed much.

And my opinion hasn't waned much. I've never had the desire to be anything but a fan and that hasn't changed. I give them their space because that's how it should be. I have no desire to "party" or hang around with anyone in the band, and have passed on numerous opportunities to be a pest. And I know you have, too. Dinner at TGIF's being one example. You remember my friend being unable to walk, knocking over a table of plates and having to crawl to the car down the handicapped walkway? I was so embarrassed that when he asked me for a hand I kicked him and laughed.

[Michigan Girl]

How many truly creative and talented people are a breeze to work with?!?
Not many that I've ever heard of ... Neal and Cain were certainly no pic-a-nic!!
The nice guys are the ones who just have to show up and play ...



I did not edit this^^^^7 times

[Saint John]

The nice guys are the ones who just have to show up and play

I think Rolie and Smith are the rare combination of nice guys, talented and extremely creative, and both seem to have the body of work that says as much. Especially Smith.

[SilvioRodrigues]

Andrew, What about the "new markets"?

I would say that Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala and Panama certainly qualify as "new markets."

Because of the amount of blatant piracy (and half of the populations there living below the poverty line), Central and South America end up combining for less than 5% of world music sales. Queen, Iron Maiden, Rush, etc. tour there exclusively for the big gate from Stadium shows, not so much for album sales. New Markets for touring the greatest hits? Sure. For new album sales? Ehh, I guess.

Don, I agree with you about the albuns sales, but talking about Brazil, I don't know the numbers but my perception is the piracy doesn't envolve hard rock/metal bands as much as local artists or blockbusters like MJ, Beyonce, Lady Gaga among others. Let's wait for the show and see the set list.

[donnaplease]

Show me where Smitty or Gregg have negatively commented on SP related to *current* times, not what happened in the 80's or 90's. Betcha can't do it!

If you were with me when I talked to Smitty you wouldn't need an explanation. Greg? That dude is all into peace and love. He was probably the first one to figure out that working with that dude wasn't worth the hassle. Ironically, an "injury":roll: thwarted his brief return to Journey, along with Chalfant, so I doubt his opinion has changed much.

And my opinion hasn't waned much. I've never had the desire to be anything but a fan and that hasn't changed. I give them their space because that's how it should be. I have no desire to "party" or hang around with anyone in the band, and have passed on numerous opportunities to be a pest. And I know you have, too. Dinner at TGIF's being one example. You remember my friend being unable to walk, knocking over a table of plates and having to crawl to the car down the handicapped walkway? I was so embarrassed that when he asked me for a hand I kicked him and laughed.

TGIFriday's was probably the highlight of that day for me (although meeting the Blackwater guys was huge for my family!). That kind of thing has always been more important than the actual show to me. I remember the huge crash we heard from the other room, but didn't know about your friend crawling to the car. LMAO! Sounds like someone else I know from a few nights before...

[RedWingFan]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

It's an observation, moron. I've donated to his charity, just like I do about a handful of others each year. And I try to do some research to make sure the money goes where it's needed. "Just about the music" was a reference as to whether or not I go to see them in concert or not.

Oh. Gotcha. "Just about the music" means only in a concert setting. When the band's not touring, then you do a checkup on Arnel's personal life as thoroughly as Clinton giving Lewinsky a cigar pap smear. Thanks for clearing that up for this moron.

[Saint John]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

It's an observation, moron. I've donated to his charity, just like I do about a handful of others each year. And I try to do some research to make sure the money goes where it's needed. "Just about the music" was a reference as to whether or not I go to see them in concert or not.

Oh. Gotcha. "Just about the music" means only in a concert setting. When the band's not touring, then you do a checkup on Arnel's personal life as thoroughly as Clinton giving Lewinsky a cigar pap smear. Thanks for clearing that up for this moron.

I'm quite sure that makes more sense than praying to some loud-mouthed John Lennon looking dude that got nailed to a cross.

[Monker]

And by all *Current-Day* accounts, a former member is described in that manner as well, yet it gives you no pause to rip on him every chance you get...

I agree with everything you said but what I quoted. Herbie, Neal, Jon, Greg, Ross and Smitty all think the guy's a tool. Because he is!

Who's the bigger fool, the fool - or the fools that followed him?

[Monker]

Journey is a world band with American roots.

And a foreign accent.

[Monker]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

It's an observation, moron. I've donated to his charity, just like I do about a handful of others each year. And I try to do some research to make sure the money goes where it's needed. "Just about the music" was a reference as to whether or not I go to see them in concert or not.

Oh. Gotcha. "Just about the music" means only in a concert setting. When the band's not touring, then you do a checkup on Arnel's personal life as thoroughly as Clinton giving Lewinsky a cigar pap smear. Thanks for clearing that up for this moron.

I'm quite sure that makes more sense than praying to some loud-mouthed John Lennon looking dude that got nailed to a cross.

I didn't know John Kalodner got nailed to anything. RIP.

[steveo777]

[Rick]

But Arnel has not done one thing that warranted the nastiness that was hurled at him. He has shown himself to be humble, professional, classy and an extremely generous humanitarian. Probably more of each than the past and present members combined.

How do you know? I thought it was JUST about the music for you. Not the case anymore?

It's an observation, moron. I've donated to his charity, just like I do about a handful of others each year. And I try to do some research to make sure the money goes where it's needed. "Just about the music" was a reference as to whether or not I go to see them in concert or not.

Oh. Gotcha. "Just about the music" means only in a concert setting. When the band's not touring, then you do a checkup on Arnel's personal life as thoroughly as Clinton giving Lewinsky a cigar pap smear. Thanks for clearing that up for this moron.

I'm quite sure that makes more sense than praying to some loud-mouthed John Lennon looking dude that got nailed to a cross.

I didn't know John Kalodner got nailed to anything. RIP.

[Saint John]

With the exception of Arnel wearing skinny jeans, this photo is pretty fucking cool.

[Don]

With the exception of Arnel wearing skinny jeans, this photo is pretty fucking cool.

With the exception of the Joker now morphing into Harvey Dent, not an atrocious pic when compared to the other one.