Latest Journey Lead Singer A Keeper, Despite Racist Response

[Rip Rokken]

Yes, there are truly racists out there, but I'd just personally avoid that term completely because the whole topic of racism in general has been hijacked to a large degree by people who only use it to manipulate and control others. Quickest way to get someone to back off is to toss the race card in. For that reason alone, I'd completely avoid the term whatsoever. It's a tainted topic. Rather, I'd definitely call people out for making rude, hurtful, insensitive and ignorant barbs at Arnel -- for sure, and that is truly what they are. But once that word "racism" is used, I get turned off.

[G.I.Jim]

If the new lead singer doesn't look the bill or has an accent - that is not a racist on the part of those who do not like him. Whether this man sinks or swims will be determined by concert attendence and record sales. Point blank. As for "dog eating" I do believe that is a cultural trait and not of any one race. This forum has always been politically incorrect. One beloved member has always used the term "smelly Euros" and made fun of Mexicans so those throwing the racist term around are being very hypocritcal.

As a Canadian, I have never gotten ticked off or offended by the Terrance and Phillip gags on South Park. The writers play off of stereotypes, and I don't think they are racist. People are way too sensitive these days.

Sorry, but I just feel we should be talking about music here. The finger pointing and playing the victim card is getting really old.

I assume you're referring to me? Tell me one time when I made a racist remark on this forum. That would make me a hypocrite! As far as your "finger pointing" remark, if someone is doing someone else wrong...I'll call them on it. It's called being a decent human being and doing what's right. I don't give a damn WHAT race somebody is.

Who's playing the "Victim"???

And yes, certain countries eat dogs. It's the context in which that comment was being used that was so disrespectful.

No not referring to you at all. Sorry if you thought that.

I can see Jonathan Cain and the band's organization perpetuating this though. "If you criticize our choice of singers you are racist." That I can definitely read into the comments posted if they are in fact really what he said.

Again, the band will sink or swim based on sales, attendence and income. Nothing more, nothing less.

Sorry, I thought you were referring to me. I see your point on Cain using it like that, but I don't really think the band would do that. He was probably just pissed after seeing a lot of comments being posted about it. I'm sure a lot of those comments have hurt Arnel's feelings too. You KNOW he reads a lot of that stuff.

I was surprised when they announced him as the singer, but I think they found a perfect match for the band. I could care less what he looks like, and I'm just excited that we have some of their best music in the last 12 or 14 years coming out in a little over a week!!!

[Allied Forces]

Sorry, I thought you were referring to me. I see your point on Cain using it like that, but I don't really think the band would do that. He was probably just pissed after seeing a lot of comments being posted about it. I'm sure a lot of those comments have hurt Arnel's feelings too. You KNOW he reads a lot of that stuff.

I was surprised when they announced him as the singer, but I think they found a perfect match for the band. I could care less what he looks like, and I'm just excited that we have some of their best music in the last 12 or 14 years coming out in a little over a week!!!

I think if you are a lead singer post Perry era for this band you need to have an extra thick skin.

Look at the abuse Steve Augeri took. The new guy will either succeed or he won't. Time will tell.

[pinkvelvet]

If the new lead singer doesn't look the bill or has an accent - that is not a racist on the part of those who do not like him. Whether this man sinks or swims will be determined by concert attendence and record sales. Point blank. As for "dog eating" I do believe that is a cultural trait and not of any one race. This forum has always been politically incorrect. One beloved member has always used the term "smelly Euros" and made fun of Mexicans so those throwing the racist term around are being very hypocritcal.

As a Canadian, I have never gotten ticked off or offended by the Terrance and Phillip gags on South Park. The writers play off of stereotypes, and I don't think they are racist. People are way too sensitive these days.

Sorry, but I just feel we should be talking about music here. The finger pointing and playing the victim card is getting really old.

I assume you're referring to me? Tell me one time when I made a racist remark on this forum. That would make me a hypocrite! As far as your "finger pointing" remark, if someone is doing someone else wrong...I'll call them on it. It's called being a decent human being and doing what's right. I don't give a damn WHAT race somebody is.

Who's playing the "Victim"???

And yes, certain countries eat dogs. It's the context in which that comment was being used that was so disrespectful.

No not referring to you at all. Sorry if you thought that.

I can see Jonathan Cain and the band's organization perpetuating this though. "If you criticize our choice of singers you are racist." That I can definitely read into the comments posted if they are in fact really what he said.

Again, the band will sink or swim based on sales, attendence and income. Nothing more, nothing less.

Arnel was not critisized by the way he sings, he was critisized because he came from a different country and was labeled he eats dogs. That is not healthy cristisism, it is a form of racism whether you like it or not.

[FishinMagician]

i think its funny cain said "hip"

[Allied Forces]

If the new lead singer doesn't look the bill or has an accent - that is not a racist on the part of those who do not like him. Whether this man sinks or swims will be determined by concert attendence and record sales. Point blank. As for "dog eating" I do believe that is a cultural trait and not of any one race. This forum has always been politically incorrect. One beloved member has always used the term "smelly Euros" and made fun of Mexicans so those throwing the racist term around are being very hypocritcal.

As a Canadian, I have never gotten ticked off or offended by the Terrance and Phillip gags on South Park. The writers play off of stereotypes, and I don't think they are racist. People are way too sensitive these days.

Sorry, but I just feel we should be talking about music here. The finger pointing and playing the victim card is getting really old.

I assume you're referring to me? Tell me one time when I made a racist remark on this forum. That would make me a hypocrite! As far as your "finger pointing" remark, if someone is doing someone else wrong...I'll call them on it. It's called being a decent human being and doing what's right. I don't give a damn WHAT race somebody is.

Who's playing the "Victim"???

And yes, certain countries eat dogs. It's the context in which that comment was being used that was so disrespectful.

No not referring to you at all. Sorry if you thought that.

I can see Jonathan Cain and the band's organization perpetuating this though. "If you criticize our choice of singers you are racist." That I can definitely read into the comments posted if they are in fact really what he said.

Again, the band will sink or swim based on sales, attendence and income. Nothing more, nothing less.

Arnel was not critisized by the way he sings, he was critisized because he came from a different country and was labeled he eats dogs. That is not healthy cristisism, it is a form of racism whether you like it or not.

I have read he sings with an accent, gasps for breath, immitates Perry ,etc. So you are wrong. It isn't racist at all. Eating dogs has nothing to do with race anyway. Culture yes. I'm pretty sure white people in the United States have eaten a dog or two themselves. Give this up and stick to the facts. I will give the new CD a listen for sure.

[pinkvelvet]

If the new lead singer doesn't look the bill or has an accent - that is not a racist on the part of those who do not like him. Whether this man sinks or swims will be determined by concert attendence and record sales. Point blank. As for "dog eating" I do believe that is a cultural trait and not of any one race. This forum has always been politically incorrect. One beloved member has always used the term "smelly Euros" and made fun of Mexicans so those throwing the racist term around are being very hypocritcal.

As a Canadian, I have never gotten ticked off or offended by the Terrance and Phillip gags on South Park. The writers play off of stereotypes, and I don't think they are racist. People are way too sensitive these days.

Sorry, but I just feel we should be talking about music here. The finger pointing and playing the victim card is getting really old.

I assume you're referring to me? Tell me one time when I made a racist remark on this forum. That would make me a hypocrite! As far as your "finger pointing" remark, if someone is doing someone else wrong...I'll call them on it. It's called being a decent human being and doing what's right. I don't give a damn WHAT race somebody is.

Who's playing the "Victim"???

And yes, certain countries eat dogs. It's the context in which that comment was being used that was so disrespectful.

No not referring to you at all. Sorry if you thought that.

I can see Jonathan Cain and the band's organization perpetuating this though. "If you criticize our choice of singers you are racist." That I can definitely read into the comments posted if they are in fact really what he said.

Again, the band will sink or swim based on sales, attendence and income. Nothing more, nothing less.

Arnel was not critisized by the way he sings, he was critisized because he came from a different country and was labeled he eats dogs. That is not healthy cristisism, it is a form of racism whether you like it or not.

I have read he sings with an accent, gasps for breath, immitates Perry ,etc. So you are wrong. It isn't racist at all. Eating dogs has nothing to do with race anyway. Culture yes. I'm pretty sure white people in the United States have eaten a dog or two themselves. Give this up and stick to the facts. I will give the new CD a listen for sure.

so what makes you think that Jon Cain was refering to that remark and not the dog eating stuff or those photoshop pictures of Arnel wearing asian hats? Arnel did not come out and say he eats dogs, just because he is from the Philippines he is labeled and made fun of. He was not accepted by few because he came from a different country or race, therefore its considered racism.

[Allied Forces]

so what makes you think that Jon Cain was refering to that remark and not the dog eating stuff or those photoshop pictures of Arnel wearing asian hats? Arnel did not come out and say he eats dogs, just because he is from the Philippines he is labeled and made fun of. He was not accepted by few because he came from a different country or race, therefore its considered racism.

Number one, I am not convinced Cain really said that. #2, Filipino isn't a race - it is a culture. I do not think anyone cares where this gentleman comes from. It is apparent some accept him and some don't for a variety of reasons - height, youtube, singing ability = whatever. Let's discuss him as a singer once he has a body of work behind him and stop playing the race card.

I for one am eager to hear the new CD. Judgements will be made at a later date by everyone I am sure. Your fan base is a passionate lot. That is one thing I have found out.

[Duncan]

If the new lead singer doesn't look the bill or has an accent - that is not a racist on the part of those who do not like him. I haven't heard him really and am only going by people's opinion that I have read. Whether this man sinks or swims will be determined by concert attendence and record sales. Point blank. As for "dog eating" I do believe that is a cultural trait and not of any one race. This forum has always been politically incorrect. One beloved member has always used the term "smelly Euros" and made fun of Mexicans so those throwing the racist term around are being very hypocritcal.

As a Canadian, I have never gotten ticked off or offended by the Terrance and Phillip gags on South Park. The writers play off of stereotypes, and I don't think they are racist. People are way too sensitive these days.

Sorry, but I just feel we should be talking about music here. The finger pointing and playing the victim card is getting really old.

I think the expression used was "Eurofags"

[jrnyman28]

I think Cain brought this up as a way to drum up more support from the fans. Maybe more Journey fans will go out and buy the CD to prove they are not racist!

[strangegrey]

Well, I don't think you have to look too far to find racist comments about Arnel. Why does Jon have to explain the racism to you, for you not to think he's "Race-baiting"? There were several "Arnel eats dogs" threads in here right when they first announced it. The guys in the band DO pop in here from time to time. I appreciate that Andrew put a stop to it too! It's a shame that people can be such jackasses!

Oh come on. A few logical inadequacies here. First, one has to argue that this place is the be-all-end-all for journey fans, for you to make such a claim of not looking too far...and only if you support the idea that what was said here last summer is actually racist. If this is the be all end off of Journey fandom, the band's fucked regardless of whether the singer is 'foreign' or not...

As far as explaing to me, he doesn't need to explain it to me at all. I don't give a fuck. I really don't. I've really no dog left in the Journey fight (please, no pun intended at all). The point I'm trying to make is that when you yell fire in a theater, you'd better be able to point to smoke or a blaze, or else you're going to be the one in trouble...not the poor theater owner with the shitty, not-up-to code wiring in the wall.

The burden of proof, socially, always falls on the acuser. The point I was trying to make is that most race-baiting pieces of shit, here or elsewhere, don't feel it's necessary to accuse with adequate proof. Too many people have been painted/tarred with a scarlett "R", unjustly...for me to let anyone, friga least of all, to get away with a claim of racism, without ample justification and/or proof.

As far as going too far to find racist comments about Arnel...there is *still* a considerable gap between what people feel is racist and others feel is simply a cultural-jab. There *is* a difference. Those that claim otherwise are too inept or lazy to adequately defend their position. Regardless.... I'm not going to get into the distinction here, as Andrew has made it dreadfully clear he no longer wants the D-O-G topic/definition discussed...

However, I do feel it necessary to call Friga's bluff when he's going to yell fire in a crowded theater and not present the adequate support to his claim. That's what I'm responding to.

[Allied Forces]

Did Jon Cain actually make this comment? Silly if he did.

[mistiejourney]

maybe neal was sitting in jon's lap when they discovered arnel on youtube

Okay, first Diet Pepsi spit-on-the-monitor of the day!

[stevew2]

maybe neal was sitting in jon's lap when they discovered arnel on youtube

yeh and Jon was giving him a reach around at the same time Arnel was singing faitfulleeee .Friga must must be on his period this week. Everything that came from his mouth was shit this week. I think is purposely trying to piss off diehards , and it is working

[scarygirl]

maybe neal was sitting in jon's lap when they discovered arnel on youtube

yeh and Jon was giving him a reach around at the same time Arnel was singing faitfulleeee .Friga must must be on his period this week. Everything that came from his mouth was shit this week. I think is purposely trying to piss off diehards , and it is working

I agree. The whole deal with the people that accused them of lipping were all alcoholics. Dude, those are your fans. Show some respect.

[Allied Forces]

Threads like this are why I never joined. Let's kill this and discuss what happens later. Please?

[annie89509]

I think Cain brought this up as a way to drum up more support from the fans. Maybe more Journey fans will go out and buy the CD to prove they are not racist!

The long-time fans who have been through (or have gained knowledge of) their entire history wouldn't put it past them to think like that at all.

[SteveForever]

Threads like this are why I never joined. Let's kill this and discuss what happens later. Please?

Never joined what?

[marijuana57]

Threads like this are why I never joined. Let's kill this and discuss what happens later. Please?

Yeah this whole "racism thingy" is very tiring now it's like hitting the ball against the wall.I'm also a foreigner living into another country but I never had any racist experience whatsoever but merely a bit of curiosity from people. Except for an old man who freaked out when he saw me because he thinks that I'm Japanese (he must have some kind of trauma during the war).But all in all it adds interests for some and please can we drop the issue about dog eating comment just ain't right right and so unfair. Can we just talk about the guys singing or the bands future plans instead of digging skeleton into somebody's closet.

[Andrew]

And yes, certain countries eat dogs. It's the context in which that comment was being used that was so disrespectful.

That I totally agree with.

Absolutely and that is why it was removed and won't be tollerated.

I have a slightly different take on the "racist" issue. I don't believe for one second that anyone wishes Arnel anything but the best and I also do not believe that anyone dislikes Arnel based on his country of origin.

What I do believe is that a large section of the fan base was pissed off and they struck out at the band in a very provocative way. That included using taunts against the new singer. These taunts would have been directed at any new singer - as fan anger was very real - in this case it was Arnel and some people chose to target him to portray their anger at Jon and Neal.