Is there even any reason to hope?

[The Ghost Rider]

Believe what you want but I believe Journey is gonna kick our asses in 2008

Yes, Journey will probably kick Journey fans asses.


But kick ass in the general music world? I don't see it happening. No matter how good it is.


Sad...but true.

[ArnelRox]

The "original" generation of Journey fans are going to bring Journey back into mainstream music. But by passing that music along to their kids, that's what's going to keep Journey in the mainstream music scene. The first group that is going to go out and buy any new Journey CD are the ones that have been listening to them for years. When they take that new CD home and start listening to it, then their kids will start to listen to it and then the kids will go buy the CD, or in most cases download it, and then they become the next generation of fans to support the band.

Welcome to MR! Ur points are valid. But the problem is, this didn't occur w/the Augeri-fronted Journey albums.

They now have a frontman in JSS who, I believe, has the "appeal" for the younger generation & there is a great deal of 80s nostalgia amongst the "kids" today. What they have to do is huge amounts of publicity...TV appearances, & perhaps, as others suggested, a duet w/someone who is current.

[bublhed]

The "original" generation of Journey fans are going to bring Journey back into mainstream music. But by passing that music along to their kids, that's what's going to keep Journey in the mainstream music scene. The first group that is going to go out and buy any new Journey CD are the ones that have been listening to them for years. When they take that new CD home and start listening to it, then their kids will start to listen to it and then the kids will go buy the CD, or in most cases download it, and then they become the next generation of fans to support the band.

Welcome to MR! Ur points are valid. But the problem is, this didn't occur w/the Augeri-fronted Journey albums.

They now have a frontman in JSS who, I believe, has the "appeal" for the younger generation & there is a great deal of 80s nostalgia amongst the "kids" today. What they have to do is huge amounts of publicity...TV appearances, & perhaps, as others suggested, a duet w/someone who is current.

Thank you. I completely agree with you. I've been "trolling" through this site for a while now and the basic message that I have gotten from reading different posts is this whole SP vs. SA vs. JSS thing going on. I don't think, in my personal opinion, that it is a who vs. who thing it's all about Journey and what they can do. If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond. There is a great deal of 80s nostalgia amongst the kids. My kids love to watch the "I love the 80s/90s" shows on VH-1 and they get into the music of my generation. They have actually embraced a number of bands that I listen to from the 80s/90s era. You are correct, as well, about JSS. JSS is a solid front man that has great appeal on all levels from vocally to image and I think that people will respond to him. I personally didn't like SA's look, he was to "fruity", but JSS is a solid performer. He certainly blew me away.

[The Ghost Rider]

If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

If good, solid rock music is all that is needed...then why did Soul Sirkus do absolutely nothing for "the masses"?

[ArnelRox]

I don't think, in my personal opinion, that it is a who vs. who thing it's all about Journey and what they can do. If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

Well, Arrival had good solid rock music on it. A huge mess in promoting it (Napster leaks, delay in US release, etc) prevented it from being a success. On the other hand, they didn't have a frontman who came across well in the TV appearances they tried. I believe Jeff can do those easily. Let's just hope they get another chance.

[Carlitto H@kk]

I will repeat myself...

Why CAN'T Journey make a splash in 2008 with a great album on the charts, radio play and a very successful tour???
We know it's all about management and publicity and 'buzz'...
Guess what, and many folks including Drew will back this up, there is a definite BUZZ in the air again for Journey
from folks on the 'inside' and I think next year is gonna be BIG year for Journey!
Some of you are counting them out before you even give them a fuckin' chance!
Like I said before, Jeff gives this band tools they haven't had in years...
For one, "Major Street Cred". Those in the Big-Business-Music-Machine know who Jeff Scott Soto is and he is HIGHLY respected among the inner circles and inner workings of the music scene. Insiders are seeing totally re-vamped Journey right now and there is an excitement about this band that hasn't been there since the 80s.
Secondly, Jeff brings a HUGE crossover appeal, i.e. he can easily relate to and be accepted and loved by MANY different demographics of fans. Older fans love him because of his sound and stage presence. younger fans love hime because he doesn't really look a day over 30, he dresses like he is 21 and he can flat-out sing the asses off of 99% of the other wannabes and throw-aways currently ruling the charts!
ROCK is on the rise again! Look at bands like Avenged Sevenfold, Dragonforce, Hinder, Velvet Revolver...
Guitar Solos are cool again! Big harmony background vocals and acrobatic lead vocals are cool again!
With the songwriting abilities of Jeff, Neal and Jon the possibilities are endless and, believe it or not, the media climate is PERFECT for a band like Journey to be relevant again!
It all falls on Management now to do thier job right...

[The_Noble_Cause]

If the band can't get radio-play with songs like "Remember Me" or "Higher Place", than they'll never get on the radio.

The one glimmer of hope is the band can actually do promo appearances now.

[ArnelRox]

The one glimmer of hope is the band can actually do promo appearances now.

But that is exactly what it takes....

[bublhed]

If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

If good, solid rock music is all that is needed...then why did Soul Sirkus do absolutely nothing for "the masses"?

Well I will have to apologize for my ignorance, but I had never heard of Soul Sirkus before coming on here. I suppose that is where I will fall short on this message board. I am not a huge follower of the whole Journeyescapade and what they've doing over the past 500 years. So whatever seperate projects took place I can't speak to. All I can say is that Journey together as a group is solid and I believe the name itself will peak interest in the music.

Correct me if I'm wrong but Soul Sirkus was a "side project" was it not? There are numerous "side projects" that artist do outside of their normal gig that flop. Why? Because unless you are a faithful follower of everything that everyone does in a band you won't know that a "side project" group is fronted or formed by a member of one of your favorite bands. And more times than not the "side project" is done because an individual within one band wants to try something different without changing the sound or structure of the band that they are in that's paying the bills for them.

[Matthew]

I've been "trolling" through this site for a while now and the basic message that I have gotten from reading different posts is this whole SP vs. SA vs. JSS thing going on. I don't think, in my personal opinion, that it is a who vs. who thing it's all about Journey and what they can do. If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

There's no evidence at all to support the theory that it doesn't matter who the Journey frontman is - it quite clearly does matter - and without Perry Journey are going to have to record an OUTSTANDING album for the general rock audience out there to notice it.

A "good solid" album won't be enough, I reckon....and this is probably what we'll get. That and a higher quality nostalgia show.

Let's face it - both Journey without Perry and JSS on his own have achieved very little commercial success. Perhaps the chemistry of Journey with JSS will change all that - but their respective track records aren't encouraging.

Still...as long as Journey put on a great show in London next year and release a few tracks as good as "Believe In Me" I'll be happy.

I have much higher expectations for Perry's career next year...perhaps foolishly so...but there you go.

[bublhed]

I've been "trolling" through this site for a while now and the basic message that I have gotten from reading different posts is this whole SP vs. SA vs. JSS thing going on. I don't think, in my personal opinion, that it is a who vs. who thing it's all about Journey and what they can do. If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

There's no evidence at all to support the theory that it doesn't matter who the Journey frontman is - it quite clearly does matter - and without Perry Journey are going to have to record an OUTSTANDING album for the general rock audience out there to notice it.

A "good solid" album won't be enough, I reckon....and this is probably what we'll get. That and a higher quality nostalgia show.

Let's face it - both Journey without Perry and JSS on his own have achieved very little commercial success. Perhaps the chemistry of Journey with JSS will change all that - but their respective track records aren't encouraging.

Still...as long as Journey put on a great show in London next year and release a few tracks as good as "Believe In Me" I'll be happy.

I have much higher expectations for Perry's career next year...perhaps foolishly so...but there you go.

Perhaps you are correct and maybe I didn't quite convey the correct message in my post. I agree that there is a lot to be said for who fronts a band. There are numerous accounts of bands that switch frontmen and have little, if no, response from their followers. But I do believe that JSS has the ability to create a new surge of response for Journey, as long as Journey writes music that fits JSS and continues with the same type of vibe that Journey carried in their early years.

[ArnelRox]

I do believe that JSS has the ability to create a new surge of response for Journey, as long as Journey writes music that fits JSS and continues with the same type of vibe that Journey carried in their early years.

& publicity....

Great frontman+great music still do not = success.

Great frontman+great music+publicity could = success.

[bublhed]

I do believe that JSS has the ability to create a new surge of response for Journey, as long as Journey writes music that fits JSS and continues with the same type of vibe that Journey carried in their early years.

& publicity....

Great frontman+great music still do not = success.

Great frontman+great music+publicity could = success.

I agree!!

[The Ghost Rider]

If the band can't get radio-play with songs like "Remember Me" or "Higher Place", than they'll never get on the radio.

The one glimmer of hope is the band can actually do promo appearances now.

Exactly. There is no market at all for an established bands new music on the radio anymore.

And like you pointed out, even the Journey name hasn't helped.

I am just of the opinion that they could put out the best album they have EVER done...and it would go basically unnoticed by the general music public. But, only time will tell if I am right.

[The Ghost Rider]

but I had never heard of Soul Sirkus before coming on here.

And that is EXACTLY my point. There is a LOT of excellent music out there that people simply don't know about.

[LucyFurr]

I'll admit, I haven't listened to any of the Journey stuff with JSS.. and it has nothing to do with him. I've kinda soured on the whole band in general.

My question is though: If (and apparently when) JSS is officially made the new lead singer, what's in store for this band? Another half-assed CD? Another tour with the same exact songs we've heard for the last 8 years? Are they going to get a REAL label and make some fucking rock music that has BALLS?

I want to get back into the band... but I really want them to succeed this time.

I think if you give JSS a chance, you'll find that he is an incredible talent, songwriter, and entertainer. He is very good to his fans, and apparently knows how to revive things, get shows sold out, add tour dates, ect. I think Journey has been revived by his presence. I dont think anything JSS does is half-assed. I do agree that there needs to be new material, but remember, they threw him in in the middle of a tour, so give the guy a break this tour. Hang out, see whats next. I think you'll be pleasently suprised!

[fred_journeyman]

And like you pointed out, even the Journey name hasn't helped. I am just of the opinion that they could put out the best album they have EVER done...and it would go basically unnoticed by the general music public. But, only time will tell if I am right.

I tend to agree with your sentiments. The other day, we took a three hour drive to Fresno. We could not find ANYTHING on the radio, except for one station, that played rock. It was either rap, jazz (which I like), Mexican, country, or PBS. There seems to be very little out there for the rock artist.

Sometimes I think if Perry was fronting the band now (and I am NOT wishing for that, or pining for it, but simply making an observation), then Journey would have a chance. We'll see what happens with JSS at the helm. There's obviously some good chemistry there and talent, so things CAN happen. Ultimately though, it's how they impact the listening public and most of the time that only comes through a label that is on the ball with their PR machine and radio play.

[kbo]

The Journey/Perry legacy is what people go to see each night. Augeri did and now JSS keeps the music alive for everyone to enjoy. This writing chemistry will never again be recreated with a new lead singer, it was too magical and special. From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus). This poses one major problem.. I'll go on a limb and say this, the majority of Journey fans don't want to hear Soul Sirkus, they want to hear classic Journey hits.. Has anyone ever noticed that concert beer/restroom breaks are when a new Journey tune is played? If with JSS Journey can write some great MELODIC music that appeals to everyone then GOD BLESS THEM! Otherwise they should move on and retire the Journey touring-money machine and go the Bad English - Soul Sirkus route.. Form a NEW VENTURE!

[Enigma869]

From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus). This poses one major problem.. I'll go on a limb and say this, the majority of Journey fans don't want to hear Soul Sirkus, they want to hear classic Journey hits.. Has anyone ever noticed that concert beer/restroom breaks are when a new Journey tune is played?

I agree with this 100%! If Journey tries to become more aggressive with their music, they are going to alientate a fan base that they've spent 30 years building! Also, in spite of the fact that Journey gets criticized on sites like MR for playing the same music night after night...This is what musicians do, folks! Most Journey fans who attend these shows aren't as devoted followers as many on websites like this are. Whether or not you want to accept it...they are there for the hits, period, end of story!

John from Boston

[ohsherrie]

From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus). This poses one major problem.. I'll go on a limb and say this, the majority of Journey fans don't want to hear Soul Sirkus, they want to hear classic Journey hits.. Has anyone ever noticed that concert beer/restroom breaks are when a new Journey tune is played?

I agree with this 100%! If Journey tries to become more aggressive with their music, they are going to alientate a fan base that they've spent 30 years building! Also, in spite of the fact that Journey gets criticized on sites like MR for playing the same music night after night...This is what musicians do, folks! Most Journey fans who attend these shows aren't as devoted followers as many on websites like this are. Whether or not you want to accept it...they are there for the hits, period, end of story!

John from Boston

And that's why they've got to do something to get the new music heard by people before they go to the concerts. Do some TV appearances. Let the public know that there's a NEW Journey with a NEW voice rather than pretending they're the same band they were in the '80s and trying to replicate that voice. If they can't get radio play then try the Micheal McDonald and Rod Stewart approach and do some TV commercials for it. Maybe even the way Mellencamp is with the truck commercial. If the song is familiar to them the audience will listen. If they recognize this as a new incarnation they may not be so expectant of the same old songs. JMO

[Andrew]

If Journey creates good solid rock music then the masses will respond.

If good, solid rock music is all that is needed...then why did Soul Sirkus do absolutely nothing for "the masses"?

That's not a simple answer to respond to - but I can sum it up in 2 ways:

1 - The music was not intended to be commercial / rado friendly stuff. It was Neal's chance to break out and flex his muscles so to speak.

2 - Journey mgmt were also directing SS and to be blunt, the success of SS was not in the Journey organization's best interest as Journey makes a LOT of money on the road. It go so bad that SS fired mgmt and were to start fresh before things just fell over (due to the lack of proper push from original mgmt).

More could have come from the whole SS thing, but now JSS had been touring with Journey, Neal hs the best of both worlds.

[Andrew]

If the band can't get radio-play with songs like "Remember Me" or "Higher Place", than they'll never get on the radio.

The one glimmer of hope is the band can actually do promo appearances now.

It could have happend with live TV and media appearances. These shows will book bands like Journey is Journey put themselves inline to be booked. And it will happen.
Rick Springfield routinely does the rounds of these daytime and morning shows, so it can, should and will happen.

[Andrew]

I do believe that JSS has the ability to create a new surge of response for Journey, as long as Journey writes music that fits JSS and continues with the same type of vibe that Journey carried in their early years.

& publicity....

Great frontman+great music still do not = success.

Great frontman+great music+publicity could = success.

Perfectly put. Add also - mgmt behind band 100% - that is also needed.

[Andrew]

From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus).!

Neal answers this VERY point in my interview with him. Stay tuned...

[Michael Leigh]

There is ALWAYS reason to hope.

If Bob Dylan and Bob Seger can get Top 10 albums in 2006 then Journey sure as hell can - if they hit TV, press, radio and live performnaces with the enthusiasm they have done so this summer and with mgmt behind them, then there sure as hell is LOTS of hope

Great Point, Andrew! Even GNR can score a top 20 record of rehashed Greatest Hits.
JSS is an UNBELIEVABLE performer.Chicks think he's hot and guys think he's cool.
He is the total package, and I agree,if management believed in the band, as much as us due hards do,there is no stopping them.

Let's also hope Steve A, gets a good response with the TS 2 CD.
I certainly would support a tour if they decided to do one. The first TS CD is classic AOR, IMO!!
Even though we all know what is about to be announced,I feel bad for SA.His contributions over the last 8 years should not be over looked.He helped bring a band that was all but dead in the water back from the ashes.I TRULY wish him the very best,and hope that financially being in Journey provided him with a comfortable nest egg.

[Greg]

From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus).!

Neal answers this VERY point in my interview with him. Stay tuned...

I'm staying tuned, I'm staying tuned!!! But I am quite anxious!!!! Please tell me I'll still be semi-young and good looking when the news is posted on the front page (hahaha well I'm semi-young but don't know about the good looking part...lol!)

[Melissa]

From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus).!

Neal answers this VERY point in my interview with him. Stay tuned...

I never got a chance to see SS live, so now if they will just do some SS songs too, on top of the new stuff, as well as the "classics", I'd love it!!! Can they do that in 3 hours? Or more?? lol

[rsimpson]

If the band can't get radio-play with songs like "Remember Me" or "Higher Place", than they'll never get on the radio.

The one glimmer of hope is the band can actually do promo appearances now.

Higher Place got alot of radio play here in Los Angeles.

[Clasicrockldy]

The Journey/Perry legacy is what people go to see each night. Augeri did and now JSS keeps the music alive for everyone to enjoy. This writing chemistry will never again be recreated with a new lead singer, it was too magical and special. From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus). This poses one major problem.. I'll go on a limb and say this, the majority of Journey fans don't want to hear Soul Sirkus, they want to hear classic Journey hits.. Has anyone ever noticed that concert beer/restroom breaks are when a new Journey tune is played? If with JSS Journey can write some great MELODIC music that appeals to everyone then GOD BLESS THEM! Otherwise they should move on and retire the Journey touring-money machine and go the Bad English - Soul Sirkus route.. Form a NEW VENTURE!

There wasn't any new Journey tunes ( meaning anything from Arrival, Red13, or Generations) at the show I went to. And there was a restroom break for me during LTS, because my 10 year old just had to go !

[Its Me]

The Journey/Perry legacy is what people go to see each night. Augeri did and now JSS keeps the music alive for everyone to enjoy. This writing chemistry will never again be recreated with a new lead singer, it was too magical and special. From what I've read over the years Neal is tired of playing the same music show after show and wants to write and play more aggressive rock music (Soul Sirkus). This poses one major problem.. I'll go on a limb and say this, the majority of Journey fans don't want to hear Soul Sirkus, they want to hear classic Journey hits.. Has anyone ever noticed that concert beer/restroom breaks are when a new Journey tune is played? If with JSS Journey can write some great MELODIC music that appeals to everyone then GOD BLESS THEM! Otherwise they should move on and retire the Journey touring-money machine and go the Bad English - Soul Sirkus route.. Form a NEW VENTURE!

keeping the music alive yes, but Jeff puts a new vigor and energy into the songs. I myself would love to hear some new music....Higher Place, FITH I think Jeff could really do justice to them!!! As for bathroom breaks, not this guy....
I am looking forward to some great new music, perhaps not the same "magic" when mr. Perry was in the band, but again i think Jeff with Jon and Neal will put some great material together!!!
I am looking forward to JOURNEY moving forward. As for retiring JOURNEY...never, until Neal says so!!!