Steve Perry Q&A @ Fan Asylum

[AR]

Shows: Seltzer water with Lemon & Lime wedges....clears out the throat.

nora,, my singer smokes while he sings, drinks beer and jack,, im going to suggest to this redneck he drink some seltzer water next time,, hed kick me i know it...

Robin Zander and Ronnie James Dio both smoke and drink. How they are able to sing the way they can - I have no idea.

[fred_journeyman]

I do know singers that drink coffee to "open up" their vocal chords.I know one of them who drinks a few mugs of coffee right before the show,says it warms up his voice.

Well this will probably sound weird, but because I tend to have allergies, when I take a strong antihistamine like Clariton-D, my vocalization is much better! My high range is improved and my overall singing is better.

I think (someone correct me if I'm wrong please) that Perry swigged water with a bit of lemon juice in it prior to a show, didn't he? Could have sworn he did, but as I say, it could be someone else I'm thinking of.

[fred_journeyman]

Just read thru that and once again - not too much of substance there.... no real gritty answers. I don't like my chances of ever getting an interview.

And if you did get an interview, I doubt that he would be willing to answer the really tough questions at all.

[SteveForever]

Just read thru that and once again - not too much of substance there.... no real gritty answers. I don't like my chances of ever getting an interview.

And if you did get an interview, I doubt that he would be willing to answer the really tough questions at all.

Gee, ya think? Fred, Perry is a private person and it was nice of him to give a little post during the holidays, plus did ya happen to notice the whole thing was laced with Journey advertisements=prolly his way of contributing to the contract of some sort. Anyway, don't pick apart every little thing please !

[Enigma869]

I will take that bet. Foreigner, Styx or KISS don't deserve to be in. Journey does. Eventually, they will get in.

I agree 100%, Dean! Foreigner and Styx are simply not in the same league as Journey! For the record, I happen to like both bands, but, they are simply not Journey and don't have the track record that Journey has. Dennis DeYoung could sing, but couldn't carry Perry's jock, in a vocal sense!


John from Boston

[*Laura]

I do know singers that drink coffee to "open up" their vocal chords.I know one of them who drinks a few mugs of coffee right before the show,says it warms up his voice.

I think (someone correct me if I'm wrong please) that Perry swigged water with a bit of lemon juice in it prior to a show, didn't he? Could have sworn he did, but as I say, it could be someone else I'm thinking of.

SP used to drink a mix of water with glycerine and a few drops of lemon.He said that in one of his interviews from the 80s,when he was touring hard.
Actually,he was very opened about how he maintains the health of his voice and even gave the recipe of this "magic" mix...

Indeed,it works.I have tried it once when I had a very bad laryngitis and needed my voice back for the radio.
In two days,my voice was back on track.

Funny enough,for some people,especially professional singers,lemon is really bad on the voice.Lemon is astringent by nature,so some don't take it well...

[AR]

I will take that bet. Foreigner, Styx or KISS don't deserve to be in. Journey does. Eventually, they will get in.

I agree 100%, Dean! Foreigner and Styx are simply not in the same league as Journey! For the record, I happen to like both bands, but, they are simply not Journey and don't have the track record that Journey has. Dennis DeYoung could sing, but couldn't carry Perry's jock, in a vocal sense!


John from Boston

The RnR HOF fame assholes lump Journey in with the previously mentioned bands. FACT.

[AR]

Dennis DeYoung could sing, but couldn't carry Perry's jock, in a vocal sense!

Bullshit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DDY STILL sings at an amazingly high level. Perry doesn't.

[Enigma869]

Dennis DeYoung could sing, but couldn't carry Perry's jock, in a vocal sense!

Bullshit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DDY STILL sings at an amazingly high level. Perry doesn't.

Ed...

I could care less what DDY "still sings". That's never been even remotely relevant to me. I just know I heard DDY in his prime and Perry in his prime, and it just wasn't close, for my ears! If you think they're in the same league, that's your opinion...I'm okay with agreeing to disagree on this point. I simply think Perry was on a level by himself, when it came to soaring vocals.

John from Boston

[Enigma869]

I don't believe he will or wants to join Journey again, but IMO it does sound like he wants to be on speaking terms with Neal again.

Do we really know if these guys aren't on "speaking terms"? I mean...I'm sure they're certainly not calling each other once a week to shoot the breeze, as their lifestyles are quite opposite. That said, they certainly seemed to be cordial enough at the WOF ceremony. I recall even seeing video of Neal and SP talking and laughing together. Honestly, no matter how hurt anyone's feelings were or are...life is too short to hold a grudge forever. At some point, you simply have to move on and appreciate the relationships you had. The bottom line is that without Steve Perry, very few people would know who Neal Schon is and without Schon, very few people would know who Perry is. They should both have a deep appreciation for that. It's allowed both of them to never have to get a real job, in their lifetimes!

John from Boston

[AR]

Dennis DeYoung could sing, but couldn't carry Perry's jock, in a vocal sense!

Bullshit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DDY STILL sings at an amazingly high level. Perry doesn't.

Ed...

I could care less what DDY "still sings". That's never been even remotely relevant to me. I just know I heard DDY in his prime and Perry in his prime, and it just wasn't close, for my ears! If you think they're in the same league, that's your opinion...I'm okay with agreeing to disagree on this point. I simply think Perry was on a level by himself, when it came to soaring vocals.

John from Boston

They are in the same league, just different. And I am more impressed by an almost 60 year old guy who can still do it. Just my opinion.

[treetopovskaya]

i never got around to asking sp a question. couldn't think of anything good or original to ask. oh well! next time! i really enjoyed reading the Q & A... thanks so much lora & cyndy... and steve! }=C))

[larryfromnextdoor]

i never got around to asking sp a question. couldn't think of anything good or original to ask. oh well! next time! i really enjoyed reading the Q & A... thanks so much lora & cyndy... and steve! }=C))

tree, i couldnt think of a great question either,, not that wouldnt be offensive about the past ect... i would like to see andrews questions,,

[treetopovskaya]

I do know that JSS had a post on these boards, shortly after coming onboard with Journey about Perry returning to Journey. He basically said he would step aside, immediately for that to happen, but, went on to say "it is NEVER happening folks, trust me". I'm pretty sure with such a definitive statement by Jeff, he has a whole lot more insider knowledge about just so fractured this relationship is, than any of us will ever understand. I'm quite sure that any future Journey is going to have will be with Jeff at the helm.

John from Boston

Well, JSS might have declared it'll "never" happen...but Perry has just said:

"I'm fairly convinced we've gone our separate ways...."

This is certainly a change from previous hardline 'the divorce is final' type statements he's given in previous years....

That is what got me too on that statement, the word "fairly" he added. I don't believe he will or wants to join Journey again, but IMO it does sound like he wants to be on speaking terms with Neal again.

i wish we could lock neal & sp in a room alone together until they make nice. };C)

[SteveForever]

I do know that JSS had a post on these boards, shortly after coming onboard with Journey about Perry returning to Journey. He basically said he would step aside, immediately for that to happen, but, went on to say "it is NEVER happening folks, trust me". I'm pretty sure with such a definitive statement by Jeff, he has a whole lot more insider knowledge about just so fractured this relationship is, than any of us will ever understand. I'm quite sure that any future Journey is going to have will be with Jeff at the helm.

John from Boston

Well, JSS might have declared it'll "never" happen...but Perry has just said:

"I'm fairly convinced we've gone our separate ways...."

This is certainly a change from previous hardline 'the divorce is final' type statements he's given in previous years....

That is what got me too on that statement, the word "fairly" he added. I don't believe he will or wants to join Journey again, but IMO it does sound like he wants to be on speaking terms with Neal again.

i wish we could lock neal & sp in a room alone together until they make nice. };C)

Maybe they do get together on occasion, as friends? I wish they could do ..."An Evening With Neal and Steve" ......something LIVE

[journeywoman]

Tree I totally agree lock them both up for about a week let them talk this out and get on with rock n roll!The interview was great and thank you Lora for all the hard work. I still felt a big void was left after reading all that. It's like going back and re-reding all the old interviews. He dances around the and just tell us are you gonna make music again or not?With so many fans he has still left us hanging.

[squirt1]

I notice I am recalling the fun days of my youth more & more with each decade. I am sure that is where Steve is at with Journey. I don't think he wants to tour,but I wouldn't be surprised that he would take stage for some portions of a few concerts and maybe even some writing. The fans would just go crazy to relive their youth, also. Jeff could we put you in charge of bringing the 2 together. Oh, and we don't want you to go anywhere either. As crazy Journey fans we can handle the best of both worlds. I also don't think Perry is slighting Jon. It is just that he sang to that guitar(the higher the scale the better) and that is what made Journey separate from any other band. They need to talk.

[TRAGChick]

Shows: Seltzer water with Lemon & Lime wedges....clears out the throat.

nora,, my singer smokes while he sings, drinks beer and jack,, im going to suggest to this redneck he drink some seltzer water next time,, hed kick me i know it...

GOOD LORD...does he sound like a Male "Janis Joplin"...?

[fred_journeyman]

Just read thru that and once again - not too much of substance there.... no real gritty answers. I don't like my chances of ever getting an interview.

And if you did get an interview, I doubt that he would be willing to answer the really tough questions at all.

Gee, ya think? Fred, Perry is a private person and it was nice of him to give a little post during the holidays, plus did ya happen to notice the whole thing was laced with Journey advertisements=prolly his way of contributing to the contract of some sort. Anyway, don't pick apart every little thing please !

I'm not picking it apart at all. I made the comment BECAUSE he's a private person and obviously has no wish to enter the fray of "what do you think of Journey now?" or "Hey, what about those tapes that Augeri used, huh?" I was simply commenting on the man's sense of privacy and propriety. But, your comment is a good example of how easy it is to misunderstand someone (I don't mean that as a slam either, just pointing it out). It helps when there is the opportunity to explain what you mean (as I did here) and that's the BIG downside to these Q & As with Perry. It's one question, then his answer. No chance for "Steve, what exactly do you mean by such and such?"

I'm grateful he gives us as much as he gives us, but for me, my main interest is in the musical part of Steve Perry and what the scoop is for the future...if he knows and wishes to share.

[larryfromnextdoor]

Shows: Seltzer water with Lemon & Lime wedges....clears out the throat.

nora,, my singer smokes while he sings, drinks beer and jack,, im going to suggest to this redneck he drink some seltzer water next time,, hed kick me i know it...

GOOD LORD...does he sound like a Male "Janis Joplin"...?

were a real bar band, like in the movie roadhouse... im just glad when we all play the same song in the right key!

[TRAGChick]

Shows: Seltzer water with Lemon & Lime wedges....clears out the throat.

nora,, my singer smokes while he sings, drinks beer and jack,, im going to suggest to this redneck he drink some seltzer water next time,, hed kick me i know it...

GOOD LORD...does he sound like a Male "Janis Joplin"...?

were a real bar band, like in the movie roadhouse... im just glad when we all play the same song in the right key!

...so you bring your OWN chicken-wire?? heehee....

[SteveForever]

Just read thru that and once again - not too much of substance there.... no real gritty answers. I don't like my chances of ever getting an interview.

And if you did get an interview, I doubt that he would be willing to answer the really tough questions at all.

Gee, ya think? Fred, Perry is a private person and it was nice of him to give a little post during the holidays, plus did ya happen to notice the whole thing was laced with Journey advertisements=prolly his way of contributing to the contract of some sort. Anyway, don't pick apart every little thing please !

I'm not picking it apart at all. I made the comment BECAUSE he's a private person and obviously has no wish to enter the fray of "what do you think of Journey now?" or "Hey, what about those tapes that Augeri used, huh?" I was simply commenting on the man's sense of privacy and propriety. But, your comment is a good example of how easy it is to misunderstand someone (I don't mean that as a slam either, just pointing it out). It helps when there is the opportunity to explain what you mean (as I did here) and that's the BIG downside to these Q & As with Perry. It's one question, then his answer. No chance for "Steve, what exactly do you mean by such and such?"

I'm grateful he gives us as much as he gives us, but for me, my main interest is in the musical part of Steve Perry and what the scoop is for the future...if he knows and wishes to share.

I think what you were saying in regards to him never giving Andrew a proper interview is this: you think his interview lacked substance and you wanted to hear stuff about music--his new music right? my answer back to you is =take what he gives, don't expect more and you won't be disappointed.

[Deb]

I don't believe he will or wants to join Journey again, but IMO it does sound like he wants to be on speaking terms with Neal again.

Do we really know if these guys aren't on "speaking terms"? I mean...I'm sure they're certainly not calling each other once a week to shoot the breeze, as their lifestyles are quite opposite. That said, they certainly seemed to be cordial enough at the WOF ceremony. I recall even seeing video of Neal and SP talking and laughing together. Honestly, no matter how hurt anyone's feelings were or are...life is too short to hold a grudge forever. At some point, you simply have to move on and appreciate the relationships you had. The bottom line is that without Steve Perry, very few people would know who Neal Schon is and without Schon, very few people would know who Perry is. They should both have a deep appreciation for that. It's allowed both of them to never have to get a real job, in their lifetimes!

John from Boston

I thought all their correspondance went through lawyers, but who knows maybe that is different since the WOF? And personally I don't think Perry is holding a grudge (much to happy for that) and by what he said in the Q&A he does appreciate the relationships he had in the past and sees them as such.

[Deb]

My question was No. 10:

10) One of my favorite songs of yours is "Listen To Your Heart" - have you listened to yours lately? What does it say?
SP: Very good, personal question. You have no idea where my heart has been lately. Oh my my..........it's been to the moon and back. Only a few of my closest friends know exactly what's going on with me. I will tell you that listening to the many, many tracks during the re-mastering just about killed me. I went from how amazing some of them were to total recall memory overload and then to sadness that time has flown ....to emotional involvement in the music to... remembering the struggles and the joys we all had with each other making them. It was a roller coaster ride but a great one.

And my fave at #73

" I LOVE ALL CATS.......Me LOVE -KITTY- KITTY- KITTYS!!!! MEOW CITY!!!"

This feline is in!!

That was a great question Cateyes............in his answer it almost sounds like he has had his heart broken recently.

[Rockindeano]

I think what you were saying in regards to him never giving Andrew a proper interview is this: you think his interview lacked substance and you wanted to hear stuff about music--his new music right? my answer back to you is =take what he gives, don't expect more and you won't be disappointed.

Bullshit. If I interview Perry, it's MY interview, not his. I want what I want answered. After all, it's up to the interviewer to either use the interview or can it.

Andrew should ask whatever the Hell he wants to.

[SteveForever]

I think what you were saying in regards to him never giving Andrew a proper interview is this: you think his interview lacked substance and you wanted to hear stuff about music--his new music right? my answer back to you is =take what he gives, don't expect more and you won't be disappointed.

Bullshit. If I interview Perry, it's MY interview, not his. I want what I want answered. After all, it's up to the interviewer to either use the interview or can it.

Andrew should ask whatever the Hell he wants to.

I was talking to Fred...and what he wanted from this interview Dean!(my post is being taken out of context, prolly my fault ) Of course Andrew can ask whatever he wants and will!

[ohsherrie]

The thing that I came away with after reading this is that it was written by a real human being. He has a lot of the same thoughts and emotions that any of us would have about events, circumstances and relationships that are part of our lives, current or past. He's obviously very intelligent and has deep thoughts about many things.

I was naturally disappointed that he hasn't recorded or isn't currently planning to do so. That doesn't lessen my respect for him though.

As a lot of you said, the one thing that grabbed me the most was his respect and affection for Neal. Do I think that means he wants to get back with Journey? NO!! I think it means exactly what Steve said, no more, no less. The comment about being "fairly" certain he was through with Journey was likely said thinking about the possibility of something happening in the future like the HOF or some other recognition of Journey type of event. JMO

He's still my favorite singer and probably always will be. He doesn't owe me anything more than the great music he's already given me.

Thanks Steve, Lora and Cyndy.

[SteveForever]

Lora, if you have any way to register how many people logged onto read the interview please let us know......Perry still has the fans!!!!

[donnaplease]

I'm not picking it apart at all. I made the comment BECAUSE he's a private person and obviously has no wish to enter the fray of "what do you think of Journey now?" or "Hey, what about those tapes that Augeri used, huh?" I was simply commenting on the man's sense of privacy and propriety. But, your comment is a good example of how easy it is to misunderstand someone (I don't mean that as a slam either, just pointing it out). It helps when there is the opportunity to explain what you mean (as I did here) and that's the BIG downside to these Q & As with Perry. It's one question, then his answer. No chance for "Steve, what exactly do you mean by such and such?"

I'm grateful he gives us as much as he gives us, but for me, my main interest is in the musical part of Steve Perry and what the scoop is for the future...if he knows and wishes to share.

I'm seeing a different side of you today Fred, I like it... (not that you need my stamp of approval, of course)

[perryfaithful]

I'm seeing a different side of you today Fred, I like it... (not that you need my stamp of approval, of course) [/quote]

Very Sweet "tails" picture DonnaPlease! A Keeper......

Yes THANKS Cyndy and Lora for doing this AND letting us folk at MR know when it was fresh off the press.