Soto

[Rockindeano]

This guy has come off the bench and into the starting lineup. He has been the shot in the arm this band needed. He has mostly received kudos and applause, but.....This is Journey you know. Nothing is ever perfect, nor is nothing ever smooth regarding this band.

Ok, let's recap. JSS is plugged into the band last July, cold, right off the waiver wire. He gets his feet wet, and surprisingly, does quite well. He has his naysayers, me included, but puts those critics to rest with strong performances in the next few weeks. There are still some jeers from the nosebleeds, but even those are quieting by the day.

Here's the question. The Journey future hangs on this guys shoulders. There is no disputing that. If Jeff and Journey fail to deliver a strong effort with their next release, I fear the band will most likely retire the name and go their separate ways, or at the very least, not perform as Journey anymore.

Steve Perry basically kicked ass every year he was with the band, and no one can dispute that guys talent. He was simply superior to anyone.

Steve Augeri was fucked before he even set foot onstage. That guy had to fill shoes he couldn't possibly fill, but did do an admirable job in trying. He also was the victim of a crossfire between avid perry Loons and newcomer Wiggler fans.

Also, Augeri was the singer when the internet was firmly entrenched into most houses. It made discussing and fighting amongst fans much easier and more fierce. Perry didn't have that problem to deal with. Now Soto does have that problem that Augeri had. However, it doesn't have to be a problem, It can be an asset. If Soto can kick ass, and quiet most of the critics (you can't shut up the Loons, as they are flatout fuckin' strange), but if he can do justice to the legacy, and put something out that does not embarrass (Generations), he can be the man.

Discuss

[wildchildtwisted]

Every singer will be in Perrys shadow...hell, the band itself is constantly in the Perry shadow. Those were the 'glory days', anything Journey does will always be compared to what was. No singer that steps up to the mic for Journey will be free of that scrutiny....even if Perry himself rejoined the band, he'd be in his OWN shadow!

Nothing is impossible, I hope JSS kicks ass with Journey and blows everything wide open. I'm just saying that those shoes are hard to fill for anyone.

[Daza]

I was an Augerri fan, I knew bog all about Soto. But, having seen Soto twice I cannot picture anybody else singing with Journey. I believe Journey's future is bright with him. Even if they don't come up with a great album they will still do well.

[Granny]

Jeff willl breakout from the Perry shadow with new material and catchy tunes b/c he can write and sing like a demon!(good demon). I was and am a Perry Loon...there is no other to compare him to! except JSS who can do justice to the legacy and on some of the older songs, does even better than Perry himself....I've seen JSS 4 x and each time was better and better..

Now it all depends on the new CD and maybe a video of a single and TV time, radio play...etc...Live DVD would be helpful too....

[AR]

This guy has come off the bench and into the starting lineup. He has been the shot in the arm this band needed. He has mostly received kudos and applause, but.....This is Journey you know. Nothing is ever perfect, nor is nothing ever smooth regarding this band.

Ok, let's recap. JSS is plugged into the band last July, cold, right off the waiver wire. He gets his feet wet, and surprisingly, does quite well. He has his naysayers, me included, but puts those critics to rest with strong performances in the next few weeks. There are still some jeers from the nosebleeds, but even those are quieting by the day.

Here's the question. The Journey future hangs on this guys shoulders. There is no disputing that. If Jeff and Journey fail to deliver a strong effort with their next release, I fear the band will most likely retire the name and go their separate ways, or at the very least, not perform as Journey anymore.

Steve Perry basically kicked ass every year he was with the band, and no one can dispute that guys talent. He was simply superior to anyone.

Steve Augeri was fucked before he even set foot onstage. That guy had to fill shoes he couldn't possibly fill, but did do an admirable job in trying. He also was the victim of a crossfire between avid perry Loons and newcomer Wiggler fans.

Also, Augeri was the singer when the internet was firmly entrenched into most houses. It made discussing and fighting amongst fans much easier and more fierce. Perry didn't have that problem to deal with. Now Soto does have that problem that Augeri had. However, it doesn't have to be a problem, It can be an asset. If Soto can kick ass, and quiet most of the critics (you can't shut up the Loons, as they are flatout fuckin' strange), but if he can do justice to the legacy, and put something out that does not embarrass (Generations), he can be the man.

Discuss

WOW! Dude, you are the superfan. No bullshit, great assessment!

[YoungJRNYfan]

As long as this band is called 'Journey', Jeff will be under the microscope. Anyone who was gonna get this gig after Perry, was gonna be under it as long as Journey lives on. It's just the way it is. It's the way people view it. If the comparisons are there, it's gonna live on, and there will be constant comparisons. Soto wouldn't get criticized so much doing his own music/band which allows fans come to him. In Journey, the fanbase is already there, and no matter what happens it will always be fans embracing JSS, not the other way around. It's tough to do this, but someone has to do it. I'm just glad Journey is still there, and when it comes down to it, that's what it's all about. I went with just let the man sing.

[ohsherrie]

Great topic Dean, and interesting to discuss. I hope we can all do that without fighting or getting smutty about it.

I chose the second option. I think Jeff can come out from under Perry's shadow, but not by trying to one up Perry on his own music. Jeff is going to have to do it with his own brand of Journey music that doesn't invite direct comparison to the Perry sound.

Augeri could never have done it regardless of the fighting between the PerryLoons and the SchonGoons. He just wasn't good enough as a singer, writer, performer or personality to overshadow Perry. If he had been he could have won some Perry fans over just like Jeff is doing.

The whole band, especially Neal, has to get over their hangups about matching, outdoing, or proving something to Perry and just let Journey be the best it can be with Jeff. I think it can be damned good if they get out of their past and build a future.

[bluejeangirl76]

Right on both counts Deano - Perry kicked unbelievable ass every year he was in the band therefore Augeri was prematurely fucked. Maybe that's why he wiggled so much. *shrug*

As I see it though, and this may sound odd, but Augeri was kind of unintentionally a test pilot. Jeff doesn't have the problem of stepping into that position in 1998 just weeks after Perry's divorce was final, like SA did.

Jeff stepped in after Augeri left, however unceremonious it was, and it wasn't announced that he was the new singer until 5 months later. With Augeri, there were no questions around it - it was "Perry is out, you ain't gonna see him up here again, here's the new dude, get used to him." So Jeff didn't have that problem either. There was a strange little transition period that, by the time it was over, save for the hardcore wigglers, people were going "We like him. Burn the god damn red pants and make this guy the singer."

So yes, the future of Journey does depend on what fresh heaven, or hell, comes out of the new marriage. My personal feeling is that (loons not withstanding) most Journey fans are on board with this and ready to hear what they are going to offer.

[StevePerryHair]

There is a shadow, but I believe he can burst out of it. Especially since he's not a clone! I spent time with family this week, and had a skeptical Perry lovin cousin (I'm a Perry lover too of course, but I think Jeff has what it will takes.) She said she doesn't think she'd be interested in seeing anyone but Perry with Journey. That's all I had to do was show her a few clips from youtube and she was impressed, and I know when they tour again, she will be at a concert. I really think if people could just see him in action, they too would get it. It will be a slow process though.

[Michael Leigh]

This guy has come off the bench and into the starting lineup. He has been the shot in the arm this band needed. He has mostly received kudos and applause, but.....This is Journey you know. Nothing is ever perfect, nor is nothing ever smooth regarding this band.

Ok, let's recap. JSS is plugged into the band last July, cold, right off the waiver wire. He gets his feet wet, and surprisingly, does quite well. He has his naysayers, me included, but puts those critics to rest with strong performances in the next few weeks. There are still some jeers from the nosebleeds, but even those are quieting by the day.

Here's the question. The Journey future hangs on this guys shoulders. There is no disputing that. If Jeff and Journey fail to deliver a strong effort with their next release, I fear the band will most likely retire the name and go their separate ways, or at the very least, not perform as Journey anymore.

Steve Perry basically kicked ass every year he was with the band, and no one can dispute that guys talent. He was simply superior to anyone.

Steve Augeri was fucked before he even set foot onstage. That guy had to fill shoes he couldn't possibly fill, but did do an admirable job in trying. He also was the victim of a crossfire between avid perry Loons and newcomer Wiggler fans.

Also, Augeri was the singer when the internet was firmly entrenched into most houses. It made discussing and fighting amongst fans much easier and more fierce. Perry didn't have that problem to deal with. Now Soto does have that problem that Augeri had. However, it doesn't have to be a problem, It can be an asset. If Soto can kick ass, and quiet most of the critics (you can't shut up the Loons, as they are flatout fuckin' strange), but if he can do justice to the legacy, and put something out that does not embarrass (Generations), he can be the man.

Discuss

WOW! Dude, you are the superfan. No bullshit, great assessment!

I agree with AR. Great topic and poll Deano!!

Even though I am a HUGE JSS fan, it wouldn't matter if Christ himself sang for Journey,they would always be in Perry's shadow.Perry is synonymous with Journey.Hell, the average music fan thinks Oh Sherrie is a Journey song, and are not even aware that they have been touring for almost 10 years without Perry.The average music fan are not even aware Journey have released any new material since the 80's or since TBF.

There are very,very few bands that can pull off a lead singer change and be successful. I know that there are exceptions to the rule, but for the most part,bands that have changed vocalists haven't faired so well (especially bands that are past their heyday).

Though I really liked Augeri, I never thought he was close to being in the same league with Perry.
Deano is right, their is a reason Perry is looked at as a legend. He set the standard for melodic rock vocalists in the 70's and 80's.There are a million imitators, but only one Steve Perry.
I commend SA for the job he did while he was with the band.Those are HUGE fucking shoes to fill, and he did it with class and humility, and always respected the fans and the legacy.
Tapegate not withstanding, I attended at least 3 Journey shows a year since they started touring again, and I ALWAYS had a great time and enjoyed myself and the music.I respect the way he handled himself up until I knew about TG.I like many of you feel as though if he could no longer do his job, then he should have stepped down.I will say though, before I knew about TG, I had no idea, so I had a great time seeing him with the band anyway.

Now JSS on the other hand IS the guy that needs to be fronting the band.
I wish they would have known about him in 98.
I have been a fan of JSS since the Yngwie days, and was a bit skeptical if he would fit for Journey,but as Granny said,he got better and better each time I saw him(3 times in 2006).
I also think that JSS influence wise, is a better fit.
JSS has ALWAYS cited Perry, Sam Cooke, and many other of the same influences as SP.
He is also a TRUE FAN of the band, where as I think Augeri was probably always a casual fan, though respect the band and their legacy.

I do think Journey with JSS, has a better shot of being in the mainstream again, then they did with SA,and I agree with Deano, if they can deliver a top notch record and management REALLY gets behind them and worke their asses off for the band, they have a shot again.
I know it might be a cheesy comparison, but if you remember back in the 80's The Monkees had a HUGE resurgence, 20 years after their heyday.I think the same thing can happen for Journey!

[NealIsGod]

I think JSS-Journey will be like Van Hagar. Different from the popular lineup, but will put out high quality music, but with the undeniable Journey stamp. I doubt they will ever be a huge seller of records ever again because of the musical climate. But there is a lot of creative chemistry between Neal and JSS, so I don't see how this band could create anything but incredible music.

[Moon Beam]

I think JSS-Journey will be like Van Hagar. Different from the popular lineup, but will put out high quality music, but with the undeniable Journey stamp. I doubt they will ever be a huge seller of records ever again because of the musical climate. But there is a lot of creative chemistry between Neal and JSS, so I don't see how this band could create anything but incredible music.

Well said Niggy

[Ms_M]

Too many good choices...

Maybe. Maybe Not. Journey fans are fucking weird People thought no one would accept Augeri - and they did.

No. Soto has enough of a fanbase already to set the cruise control He has a lot of fans (from his work prior to Journey) and has gained many fans during the last several months.

Who gives a shit? Let the man sing and collect bank. I like this one - People will complain no matter what. For those of us that enjoy Jeff and his amazing talent - there is no point in getting worked up over some people's complaining. Of course, Jeff should be making some $$$!!

My money says Monker will come in and bitch about this someway or another This one is pretty self-explanatory... As I said, some people will complain no matter what. Plus, this is just damn funny!

[ProgRocker53]

Journey w/JSS is going to make some really beautiful music. Myself and many of my friends are looking forward to the next album, I've gotten so many fellow teens into melodic/progressive rock it isn't funny. It's great to see fellow youngsters excited over a new Journey release and tour.

The most-played albums when we get together for Saturday night poker are Talisman's 7, Journey's Frontiers, Soul SirkUS's World Play, and Dream Theater's Images and Words.

[AR]

Mikes post was OUTSTANDING.

Jeff is the best possible choice for Journey. Dude is the REAL DEAL.

I just say - Stop worrying about hits though!

The musical climate doesn't support it.

Just my opinion.

I WANT them to have a SMASH hit or album. Realistically, I just want them to be successful and that is a goal that is obtainable.

[Sassie]

Well, I think he is holding his own. And if he is in a shadow, he only needs to step out in the sunshine. Nobody will ever take the place of Steve Perry, that is impossible, at least to me. But JSS can do his own thing. He is talented in his own right. We just need to give him a chance I think.

[Enigma869]

I think Jeff is an immensely talented vocalist and is doing great justice to the Journey catalogue of music. Having said that, Perry will FOREVER cast an enormous shadow over the Journey name and nobody on this planet will ever completely overcome that, in my opinion. I think the fact that Jeff isn't trying to be Perry is a VERY good thing. He is his own man, while at the same time respecting the hell out of this music. I can tell you that I'm VERY much looking forward to a new CD. I just hope that they stick with what the Journey sound is, and not try to reinvent themselves at this late stage in the game!


John from Boston

[mystichealer]

I have warmed to Jeff more over the last couple of months. At first i thought he was completely the wrong choice for the band. Have always loved the guys voice when i first heard the 'Eyes' demos many years ago.
Just seen the band on the latest tour in the UK and loved the band and Jeffs vocals were great (i thought). Set list was completely fuckin shite, i mean who the fuck wants to hear 'Mystery Fuckin Mountain', over the likes of Message Of Love, I'll Be Alright Without You, Only The Young, After The Fall (do i need to go on) not me for fuck sake, but yeah overall they were great.

I do think though that he will always be in Perry's shadow, just as Augeri was. I know a lot of People that say that Journey just sound like a covers band now, and i was hearing people in the audience at the shows in The Uk stating that he was completely the WRONG choice for Journey and that the show was shit, and they hated it. Obviously some people do not appreciate Jeff being in the band, but thats always gonna happen.

Then there are the rumours (Schon actually said it) that the songs they are writing are in the Soul SirkUS vein. What the fuck is that all about. Errrrr hello, this is Journey here, not Soul SirkUS. Correct me if i'm wrong but SS actually bombed, and with good reason as they were absolute garbage. Journey's 'Generations' was wayyy better and that was total shite.
If Jeff and Journey are to succeed together then (imo) they have to write and record Journey sounding songs, with great hooks and melody (something SS completely lacked), and Generations too, apart from the odd cut here and there.

Journey should stick to what they have always been best at. Great Hooks, Big chorus's and Melody to die for, something that Generations had very little of, and Soul SirkUS's World Play had diddly fuckin squat of. Maybe then the Journey can continue.

[*Laura]

I don't know which one to vote...IMO,it's a combo between 1 & 2.

Jeff (or any other singer in his place) will always have to deal with Perry's shadow,but if he will come up with some good new material,the crtics will most certainly shut up.

[Lady Luck]

Now it all depends on the new CD and maybe a video of a single and TV time, radio play...etc...Live DVD would be helpful too....

I agree. Jeff has certainly proven that he can sing the classics, but there are still a lot of doubters out there. A new, in-your-face, kick ass release would certainly change their tune.

[whocares]

I don't think of Jeff being in Perry's shadow, anymore than I think of Ross being in Randy Jackson's shadow.

Jeff isn't coming in as a clone. He's his own person.

[brywool]

With Randy, the whole band would be in his shadow. He's a big guy...

[FormerJrnyFan]

With Randy, the whole band would be in his shadow. He's a big guy...

"Used to be" a big guy...

[Enigma869]

I don't think of Jeff being in Perry's shadow, anymore than I think of Ross being in Randy Jackson's shadow.

With all due respect, the Ross Valory/Randy Jackson comparison is just not a good analogy! For starters, Ross is an original member of Journey, and Randy Jackson was nothing more than a hired gun for one single album! Also, as bands go, bass players tend to be pretty obscure. We're talking about the voice of the band here. I think the guy out front is ALWAYS going to be more significant to the average music fan. Not to mention, we're talking about Steve Fucking Perry!!!!! Anyone who truly doesn't believe Perry's shadow will forever be cast upon Journey, hasn't been paying attention for the past 9 years! Ask Soto if he's come across any fans recently who are still surprised to learn that Perry isn't part of the band any longer, even after almost a decade!


John from Boston

[Saint John]

With Randy, the whole band would be in his shadow. He's a big guy...

WAS a big guy, Dawg.

[FormerJrnyFan]

With Randy, the whole band would be in his shadow. He's a big guy...

WAS a big guy, Dawg.

[donnaplease]

I chose the "Maybe. Maybe Not" option. There is such a diversity among Journey fans.

Dean, I think you left something out of the equation though. Just as much as Jeff's approval may be affected by the 'Loons', he has had an equal amount of criticism by the 'Wigglers'. I believe they are the ones that are commenting about his hair and wardrobe as criteria for how appropriate (or not) Jeff is as a member of Journey.

It seems to me that most SP fans have come to accept and respect the contribution that Jeff is making to today's Journey. We will always dream of seeing SP back where he belongs, but at the same time accept reality and the reality is that (for now, anyway) it ain't gonna happen. Jeff Scott Soto is doing a PHENOMINAL job as the lead singer in this band, and has given it the 'shot in the arm' that it so desperately needed.

I can't wait to hear what incredible stuff these guys are working on!!!

[treetopovskaya]

with some perry fans (the VERY closed minded ones) he'll always be under a microscope.

i voted maybe but i should have voted yes. oh well! }:C))

[Enigma869]

he has had an equal amount of criticism by the 'Wigglers'. I believe they are the ones that are commenting about his hair and wardrobe as criteria for how appropriate (or not) Jeff is as a member of Journey.

And let us not forget that some of these morons actually claimed Jeff was too fucking tall for Journey!!!!!! This is just one more reason that I find most Augeri fans to be completely USELESS! If you want to criticize a guy's voice, fine! But, "too tall"....MORONS, MORONS, MORONS!


John from Boston

[Rockindeano]

Donna, I am not sure if Wigglers are any worse than Loons. Both sides are a fucking disgrace.

Seriously.

Wigglers are dumber then dumb, and Loons are so close minded they can't see light. it's a toss up.