PRESS RELEASE

[ohsosoto]

Next career move: The JOURNEY Theater in Branson Missouri.

NO FUCKING WAY DO WE WANT THEM HERE IN MISSOURI!!!!!

(no offense to the fine residents of Missouri)

yeah, but what about me?

where do you live in mo?

[nikki]

Jeff has the statement posted on his MySpace blog but clearly states that this isn't "his side" of things. Can't wait to hear what he has to say about all of this.

[chickpea]

Good God, the one day in the last year that I haven't logged onto this place and this shit happens.

[Rockindeano]

By the way folks, if you go back and read "my" statement, that wasn't facetious. It was spot on truth.

[nikki]

I wonder if they at least gave Jeff a big tube of KY-Jelly with that! [/quote]

I doubt it. Probably not even a reach-around either.

[Angiekay]

You know, Jeff Watson isn't busy.....

[whocares]

where do you live in mo?

stl

[mgstar1964]

Hello All,

I am a long-time reader and fan of MR.com, and an infrequent poster, due to time / job constraints. I was absolutely HORRIFIED and SHOCKED at today's turn of events. After careful analysis and thought, I have some questions for everyone's evaluationa and discussion, based on Dean's version of the "PRESS RELEASE." Here goes:

A few questions / points of discussion ...

1. How could Jeff have been seen as too arrogant, when he was also known to be very humble, both online and, especially, in person? I know that online, he displayed a lot of CONFIDENCE (for every 1 fan that leaves, 10 will be gained), but overall, people online liked his personality, for the most part. He did rub some of the Augeri-diehards the wrong way at first, in December-January, but pretty much, the entire online Journey community was behind him and pro-JSS, pro-Journey by the start of the Feb. tour ...

2. The band didn't want to work / record new material? What happened to all of the previously discussed plans - new album, major 2008 comeback tour after taking 2007 off, ostensibly, to "disappear for a while" as Neal so eloquently stated, "We gotta go away for a bit."

If they didn't want to work and write / record new material, why did they write that new song for the Virginia show, Winds of Freedom? I actually liked it based on the YouTube clips.

What happened to taking the 2nd half of 2007 (after Talisman tour finishes) to write and then record the next album? Did they just decide to do an about-face and not record anything at all?

They had considered, for a brief while, re-recording the band classics with JSS vocals on them, and then that idea was out-voted and scrapped. I can't believe that that would have contributed to JSS being forced out, though.

3. JSS helped bring Journey back into technology-land, by completely re-designing his own website which is an extension / reflection of Journey's online presence, and also, by pushing them to allow YouTube videos and links on the BackTalk forum rules, etc. He had gradually made backtalk a more friendly place than it was a year or more ago at this time ...

4. JSS interacted with the fans online - perhaps too much for his own good? Is it possible that the band members / management didn't want him to be so 'loose-lipped" online? However, it makes sense from a PR perspective because he was the "new singer" and had to smooth over a lot of "ruffled feathers" by people who still supported Steve Augeri, etc. So, his attempts at online responses, PMs, message board posts, and fan dialogues was a good attempt at free PR for the band, and showing a new era of "reaching out" on his part ....

5. Why would Jon and Neal want to get rid of someone who lifted the energy and image of the band - it is interesting to note that they would feel "overshadowed" by his stage presence, but this is natural, because they are a band that has songs that are "vocally oriented and centered" .... meaning, whoever is singing the catalogue is going to be the focus primarily, on stage.

6. What about the supposed "writing chemistry" between JSS and Neal, and their deep musical bond / friendship since 2004 / Soul Sirkus, etc.? Is it possible that Neal wanted him still in the band and Jon didn't feel that chemistry w/ him?

7. I can't believe that either Ross or Deen would want JSS out ... makes no sense ...

I'd be curious to see your thoughts on some of my ideas here ... Thank you

Regards,


Michael

[Uncle heFTy]

I’ve known Jeff Scott Soto for almost 7 years and in that time have followed him through thick and thin (and there was a lot of thin), helping out where I can becoming a family friend and trusted supporter. He is an honourable man who loves music and he had a number of bands that became his heroes –with Queen, Prince and Sam Cooke all vying for top slot and Journey right up there with them.

When he got the call and called me it was like he had been given the keys to the candy shop and the opportunity to sing before the President, the Queen, the Emperor all rolled into one. He relished the opportunity and for the past 11 months had been singing the band’s praises wherever he can – doing what he could to ensure that the audiences of long-time, committed Journey fans continue to love the band he loves. And, in early 2007, he was announced as the new, PERMANENT, singer for Journey, permanence (like many English words) has a different meaning here.

But since the Virginia gig he felt increasingly isolated but threw himself into the organisation of the closing pages of one of the chapters that helped to make Jeff what he is today – the Talisman Farewell Tour. And alongside that he put most of his career on hold.

Imagine, then, seeing the rumours of his demise beginning on chat-boards and meeting a music industry acquaintance in a far-flung land to be told “Hi Jeff, sorry to here you’re not in Journey anymore!” and then at a hotel to be assured by a member of ‘management’ that “nothing was going on” not once but on numerous occassions.

I was woken last Monday night at around 11:30pm by a distraught Jeff with the simple phrase “I’m out…” Quite simply I couldn’t believe it – perhaps it was a bad-dream.

Does loyalty count for nothing?

Was the great gig at Hammersmith’s Apollo a figment of my imagination, the Paradiso in Amsterdam something that never happened, were the packed out UK tour and the houses right across the US and Europe works of fiction?

So, what now? ‘Rock Star’ anybody!

Uncle heFTy

[7 Wishes]

Wow. This is infuriating. Classless, absolutely classless. Jon and Neal need a Karma Cleansing. HOW could they DO this to Jeff?

[tammy]

I’ve known Jeff Scott Soto for almost 7 years and in that time have followed him through thick and thin (and there was a lot of thin), helping out where I can becoming a family friend and trusted supporter. He is an honourable man who loves music and he had a number of bands that became his heroes –with Queen, Prince and Sam Cooke all vying for top slot and Journey right up there with them.

When he got the call and called me it was like he had been given the keys to the candy shop and the opportunity to sing before the President, the Queen, the Emperor all rolled into one. He relished the opportunity and for the past 11 months had been singing the band’s praises wherever he can – doing what he could to ensure that the audiences of long-time, committed Journey fans continue to love the band he loves. And, in early 2007, he was announced as the new, PERMANENT, singer for Journey, permanence (like many English words) has a different meaning here.

But since the Virginia gig he felt increasingly isolated but threw himself into the organisation of the closing pages of one of the chapters that helped to make Jeff what he is today – the Talisman Farewell Tour. And alongside that he put most of his career on hold.

Imagine, then, seeing the rumours of his demise beginning on chat-boards and meeting a music industry acquaintance in a far-flung land to be told “Hi Jeff, sorry to here you’re not in Journey anymore!” and then at a hotel to be assured by a member of ‘management’ that “nothing was going on” not once but on numerous occassions.

I was woken last Monday night at around 11:30pm by a distraught Jeff with the simple phrase “I’m out…” Quite simply I couldn’t believe it – perhaps it was a bad-dream.

Does loyalty count for nothing?

Was the great gig at Hammersmith’s Apollo a figment of my imagination, the Paradiso in Amsterdam something that never happened, were the packed out UK tour and the houses right across the US and Europe works of fiction?

So, what now? ‘Rock Star’ anybody!

Uncle heFTy

And to think I thought the "rumors" were just that on here caused by boredom!! Seems very unfair to Jeff & especially the way the J word handles things. Unbelievable!

[MRMUSIC413]

This has got Azoff written all over it

Irv chomping on a big cigar "Get that kid outta there, what we need is another Perry...we can sell 200 more seats a night with a new Perry!"

Schon "Yessir Mr.. Azoff...you manage the Eagles and they are the biggest selling band in the HISTORY OF THE WORLD!" runs away...

Exactly.... I've dealt with Azoff and his creeps on his staff over the years. You squarely hit the nail on the head.

[Blueskies]

I’ve known Jeff Scott Soto for almost 7 years and in that time have followed him through thick and thin (and there was a lot of thin), helping out where I can becoming a family friend and trusted supporter. He is an honourable man who loves music and he had a number of bands that became his heroes –with Queen, Prince and Sam Cooke all vying for top slot and Journey right up there with them.

When he got the call and called me it was like he had been given the keys to the candy shop and the opportunity to sing before the President, the Queen, the Emperor all rolled into one. He relished the opportunity and for the past 11 months had been singing the band’s praises wherever he can – doing what he could to ensure that the audiences of long-time, committed Journey fans continue to love the band he loves. And, in early 2007, he was announced as the new, PERMANENT, singer for Journey, permanence (like many English words) has a different meaning here.

But since the Virginia gig he felt increasingly isolated but threw himself into the organisation of the closing pages of one of the chapters that helped to make Jeff what he is today – the Talisman Farewell Tour. And alongside that he put most of his career on hold.

Imagine, then, seeing the rumours of his demise beginning on chat-boards and meeting a music industry acquaintance in a far-flung land to be told “Hi Jeff, sorry to here you’re not in Journey anymore!” and then at a hotel to be assured by a member of ‘management’ that “nothing was going on” not once but on numerous occassions.

I was woken last Monday night at around 11:30pm by a distraught Jeff with the simple phrase “I’m out…” Quite simply I couldn’t believe it – perhaps it was a bad-dream.

Does loyalty count for nothing?

Was the great gig at Hammersmith’s Apollo a figment of my imagination, the Paradiso in Amsterdam something that never happened, were the packed out UK tour and the houses right across the US and Europe works of fiction?

So, what now? ‘Rock Star’ anybody!

Uncle heFTy

It boggles the mind how they could treat Jeff this way after all he's done for them.

[ArnelRox]

He relished the opportunity and for the past 11 months had been singing the band’s praises wherever he can – doing what he could to ensure that the audiences of long-time, committed Journey fans continue to love the band he loves.

Yeah & that was painfully obvious. Obviously it has also been painful. Funny how words get switched around huh?

Imagine, then, seeing the rumours of his demise beginning on chat-boards and meeting a music industry acquaintance in a far-flung land to be told “Hi Jeff, sorry to here you’re not in Journey anymore!” and then at a hotel to be assured by a member of ‘management’ that “nothing was going on” not once but on numerous occassions.

Must be lovely huh? Can any of us even imagine that?

Does loyalty count for nothing?

Usually it does, doesnt it? Or am I dreaming? But I guess when u have 4 ex-wives, how many kids (I lost count), lots of plastic surgery, lots of botox injections, purple shirts to buy by the dozen, & an ego bigger than fucking Australia, I guess it's not cool to have ur thunder stolen again & again by lead singers who just outshine u. Damn, what did that fucker do w/the money his mother gave him for singing lessons? Oh yeah, he spent it on guitar lessons. What a shame.

Was the great gig at Hammersmith’s Apollo a figment of my imagination, the Paradiso in Amsterdam something that never happened, were the packed out UK tour and the houses right across the US and Europe works of fiction?

Wake up. We dreamed the whole last yr. It's just like the season of Dallas where Bobby died, but he didn't really. Shit, that was a long time ago. History is repeating itself. I know it is. I watched Jeff get gradually erased from the official site today, bit by bit by bit. It was a weird feeling.

So, what now? ‘Rock Star’ anybody!

Isnt it ironic?

[ForceInfinity]

Man, where do I begin with this one. I know I supported Journey when they brought on Augeri, and again when they got JSS, but jeez. This is just pushing things. I mean JSS comes on board, and everyone is going nuts for the band. What do they do, boot JSS. Someone explain to me what fucked up logic went into that move? Neal and John, tell you what, if you reading this, just park the fucking band, throw away the keys and walk away. I'd be hard pressed to support this band anytime soon. My condelences to JSS, but I just have this feeling that if this band is going to pull this bullshit, maybe its better that JSS try to surround himself with some better people or something because obviously Journey (maybe Deen excepted) isn't worth the trouble.

[ArnelRox]

maybe its better that JSS try to surround himself with some better people or something because obviously Journey (maybe Deen excepted) isn't worth the trouble.

Not so sure about Deen anymore, but never a truer word was spoken about who JSS should surround himself w/. These are simply NOT good people Great music in their heyday, yes. But assholes thru & thru.

[bluejeangirl76]

Fuckers!

Gotta love that press release, making JSS out to be a fill in. Let him save the tour so you don't get your asses sued off and then do this? And boy they were quick to remove him from the photo on their site but they left the old press release up, so everyone can see their hypocracy - you know, the press release that says:

“We thank Steve for all his hard work and we wish him only the best in his future endeavors. Over the past few months, we’ve come to realize that Jeff has proven himself above and beyond that he can sing the hell out of our songs and we’re happy to officially welcome him as part of the family. We’re excited to start a new chapter with Jeff and we’re excited about what the future may bring.”

Really? REALLY? Well, that's four singers. Hope lucky number 5 has a BIG tube of Astroglide handy.

[fredinator]

NIG, I agree with you; this too shall pass. I remember what Lora said a couple of weeks ago: something about the music industry being a very scary place. Jeff is a good man and young and he will be okay. Journey is still a great band, I think. I am still a fan (a little shocked), but I did get goose pimples when I heard them mentioned on NPR of all things along with Steve's name. I thought that was pretty awesome.

[Red13JoePa]

4. JSS interacted with the fans online - perhaps too much for his own good? Is it possible that the band members / management didn't want him to be so 'loose-lipped" online? However, it makes sense from a PR perspective because he was the "new singer" and had to smooth over a lot of "ruffled feathers" by people who still supported Steve Augeri, etc. So, his attempts at online responses, PMs, message board posts, and fan dialogues was a good attempt at free PR for the band, and showing a new era of "reaching out" on his part ....

Dammit, I hope the hell this had nothing whatsoever to do with it, Mike.
They had to know going in that the internet and actually interacting with fans as himself, no aliases, was one of JSS' hobbies.
I DON'T think he was loose-lipped about band biz issues and I think he showed nothing but the utmost respect to perry, Augeri and their respective fans.
We can't mistake not standing for having his nose rubbed in shit by perry jihadists or AugeriDriveByShooters as being smug or a jerk, either.


Welcome to you, BTW.

[jrnysc]

Uncle heFTy, thanks for sharing. That makes you feel so many emotions. Anger, sadness, disbelief, confusion to name a few. I am in management as well on a much different scale, but one thing that rings true no matter what business your in. You have to be able to awake and look yourself in the mirror every morning. How do these type people exist? How can you do that to a man who dropped everything he was doing, to get you out of such a mess, bring reviews to a level not seen since the early 80's, and give promise to Journey rising to the top? It is truly mind boggling. Can anyone say who officially told Jeff, or has noone from that organization spoken to him at this point?

[yogi]

Did I NAIL this one MONTHS & MONTHS ago or what!!!!

My sources are INCREDIBLE.


Whitney Houston is practicing with the Boyz as I type. Two months from now when all of you have purchased your Journey Circus seats and she belts out Open Arms you'll be in Departure heaven.

My one BIG question is can you bring the Circus to Journey or does Journey have to travel to the circus??


Clown away Neal. You havent fractured the name one Ioda.

Thank god Jeff wised up in time. Now Deen needs to do the same.


Ladies & Gentleman may we introduce the new lead singer of Journey........................... Whitney Houston.

Also performing tonight on the bongos.............................................. Bobby Brown


And finally PLEASE DONT FEED THE ELEPHANTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Red13JoePa]

Dude, no one wants to read that bullshit now. It was midly interesting like the first 22 times you rolled it out there.

[StyxCollector]

Uncle heFTy, what you wrote definitely sounds like what went down. You have nothing to gain or lose by writing what you did.

But since the Virginia gig he felt increasingly isolated but threw himself into the organisation of the closing pages of one of the chapters that helped to make Jeff what he is today – the Talisman Farewell Tour. And alongside that he put most of his career on hold.

Here is where the problem begins. The big question is what happened between May and now? That VA gig seemed to go fine. Did the Talisman thing threaten Schon or Cain? It shouldn't. Journey is on a bit of a hiatus, and are taking a lot of the year off. Who cares if JSS plays some live gigs?

Imagine, then, seeing the rumours of his demise beginning on chat-boards and meeting a music industry acquaintance in a far-flung land to be told “Hi Jeff, sorry to here you’re not in Journey anymore!” and then at a hotel to be assured by a member of ‘management’ that “nothing was going on” not once but on numerous occassions.

I was woken last Monday night at around 11:30pm by a distraught Jeff with the simple phrase “I’m out…” Quite simply I couldn’t believe it – perhaps it was a bad-dream.

Does loyalty count for nothing?

One word: ouch. If this is how it went down, total lack of class. Who would want to be part of an organization like that?

Was the great gig at Hammersmith’s Apollo a figment of my imagination, the Paradiso in Amsterdam something that never happened, were the packed out UK tour and the houses right across the US and Europe works of fiction?

It will be interesting to see the spin on this one, no doubt.

[yogi]

When JSS releases his version of what happened it will read something close to the following.

' My throat had been a little tired and I had recently noticed that my voice and our recent shows were not quite good enough for what we were asking the fans to pay to see us. I told Neal that we should take a week off. Neal took off his shoes and socks. He always does this when he is math challenged. He then asked one of our managers to do some numbers crunching. Later that afternoon Neal, Ross and Jonathan came to me and said that the shows will go on'.

'They(Neal, Jonathan & Ross) said all we need to do was tape record the rest of the shows. Neal said better yet 'lets just put them on a video screen and use some of the shows from when we were younger'. Jonathan said 'what the fuck this shit worked before'. Ross added 'our fans are dumbasses anyway they will accept anything we put out there'.

I knew at this poit that I needed to bail. I will see you soon with either a new band or my Talisman brothers


Thanks for your support. All my best ,


JSS

[maverick218]

I'm totally floored by this news. I really thought that JSS could lead them on a comeback...
Just a thought, but is it a coincidence that this happened right after Kevin Chalfant released his CD?

[NoMoreTails]

Bring back AUGERI~

Has anyone else here seen Andrew's replies to a dude called HellYeah on the Noticeboard?

[Tarseea]

I'm so mad I could I don't know PUNCH Neal.........JEFF is they ONLY reason I went back as a Journey fan......Mind you there was a part of me that was going to miss him doing his solo stuff......I hope the leftovers at JOURNEY rot in HELL for what they have done......I hope fans take a stand this time and say NO MORE GUYS GO HOME........Well I for one will follow the class act keep going Jeff I'm following your music.

[Jenna]

I'm so mad I could I don't know PUNCH Neal.........JEFF is they ONLY reason I went back as a Journey fan......Mind you there was a part of me that was going to miss him doing his solo stuff......I hope the leftovers at JOURNEY rot in HELL for what they have done......I hope fans take a stand this time and say NO MORE GUYS GO HOME........Well I for one will follow the class act keep going Jeff I'm following your music.

Tara---take deep breaths-----

[bionic]

I like the way the Journey site buries this under all the stuff about The Sopranos. They genuinely give the impression that they thought we might not notice. I'm suprised they didn't put the swag ads above it too.

They are already selling off the recent european tour shirts at $10 a shot!!