journey song list

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Journey Song list

• After All These Years (2008)
• Any Way You Want It (1980)
• Anytime (1978)
• Be Good To Yourself (1986)
• City of Hope (2011)
• Dixie Highway (1981)
• Don't Stop Believin' (1981)
• Faithfully (1983)
• Feeling That Way (1978)
• Homemade Love (1980)
• I'll Be Alright Without You (1986)
• Lights (1978)
• Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' (1979)
• Never Walk Away (2008)
• Only The Young (1985)
• Open Arms (1981)
• Send Her My Love (1983)
• Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (1983)
• Still They Ride (1981)
• Suzanne (1986)
• Sweet and Simple (1979)
• The Journey (Revelation) (2008)
• Too Late (1979)
• Wheel In The Sky (1978)
• When I think Of You (1996)
• Where Were You (1980)
• Who's Crying Now (1981)

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Journey Songs

Select a song to view albums and online mp3s:, celebrating the best journey songs.

One song can be enough to keep a band in people’s hearts and minds for decades. And Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ is a prime example.

This song was released way back in 1981, but remains a classic of the rock genre, beloved by many — including countless fans born years after it first hit the charts. Don’t Stop Believin’ actually became the biggest-selling of all tracks released before the 21st century on iTunes in 2009, as proof of its immense staying power.

But there’s more to Journey than this unforgettable track.

The Best Journey Songs from a Career Spanning Decades

Journey has separated and reformed multiple times, but has enjoyed considerable success since the band first broke through in the early 1980s. By the time Don’t Stop Believin’ was released, the band had already released multiple albums, including Escape (from which this track was taken).

Escape was a huge hit, reaching the top of the Billboard 200 and garnering critical acclaim. It also included the track Open Arms, another of the best Journey songs. Don’t Stop Believin’ showcases some of the strongest Journey songs lyrics, with an inspirational sensibility that makes it one of the most upbeat rock songs ever released.

Other best Journey songs include Any Way You Want It, Lights, Wheel in the Sky, and Only the Young. They showcase some of the strongest Journey songs lyrics written so far.

During the band’s career, Journey has sold close to 50 million albums in the United States alone, and have had more than 19 top 40 singles in this country, with 25 gold and platinum albums. The Greatest Hits album, released in 1988, was RIAA Diamond Certified and believed to be the US’s sixth-highest-certified greatest hits album. It sells almost 500,000 units around the world each year, and has been rereleased on numerous occasions.

Overall, Journey is considered one of the top-selling bands in the history of music. The band was inducted into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

The Enduring Power of the Best Journey Songs

As with most smash-hit rock bands, Journey songs lyrics can be heard in numerous films and television shows. For example, Don’t Stop Believin’ featured in the notorious final installment of the long-running Sopranos, as well as in hit musical series Glee. The Broadway musical Rock of Ages includes the track, too.

With the best Journey songs gaining exposure in the media, the band continues to gain new fans again and again. There’s a wealth of material for newcomers to discover, including more than a dozen albums.

These include: the 1975 debut Journey; Look into the Future; Next; Infinity; Evolution; Departure; Dream, After Dream; Escape; Frontiers; Raised on Radio; Trial by Fire; Arrival; Generations; Revelation; and Eclipse. The Greatest Hits compilation makes a fantastic starting point for new fans, too.

If you’re looking to listen to the best Journey songs, you’ll find every one listed here at Song List. We include links to buy the tracks on Amazon and Apple Music, so you can discover the band for yourself within just a couple of clicks.

Official Journey Website Official site. Features current news, a biography, discography, lyrics, tour dates, merchandise, and information on the fan club. [Requires Flash]

Journey (band) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia There is some dispute as to who actually came up with the name Journey, but John Villaneuva, a Herbert associate, put it forward to Herbie, and the band had ...

Journey Tribute Page: The 70s and 80s Classic Rock Band The Best site for the rock band Journey. Includes latest information, FAQ, pictures, sounds, mp3, lyrics, discography, collectables, memorabilia, surveys, ...

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Anthemic arena rock outfit who achieved huge success in the 1970s and '80s thanks to musical prodigy Neal Schon and smooth tenor Steve Perry.

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Complete List Of Journey Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Bruce Alan Bennett / Shutterstock.com

This Complete List Of Journey Albums And Songs presents the full discography of Journey studio albums. The band Journey was first formed in 1973.  The group Journey hails from the area of San Francisco, California. This complete Journey discography also includes every single Journey live album. All these spectacular Journey albums have been presented below in chronological order. We have also included all original release dates with each Journey album as well as all original Journey album covers. Every Journey album listed below showcases the entire album tracklisting.

JOURNEY STUDIO ALBUMS

Released: April 1, 1975

Journey’s self-titled debut album was released in April 1975 and was the band’s first outing into the musical world. At the time, Journey was yet to adopt the arena rock sound that they would later become famous for. Instead, the album exhibited strong influences of jazz fusion and progressive rock, with extensive instrumental solos and complex musical arrangements.

Notable tracks include “Of a Lifetime” and “Mystery Mountain,” which offered a glimpse into the technical proficiency and artistic aspirations of the band. Though the album didn’t achieve significant commercial success, it laid the groundwork for what the band could accomplish. The album featured Neal Schon on guitars, Ross Valory on bass, Gregg Rolie on keyboards and vocals, Aynsley Dunbar on drums, and George Tickner on rhythm guitar. It was produced by Roy Halee and recorded at CBS Studios in San Francisco in late 1974. .

CD Track Listings:

• “Of a Lifetime” – 6:48
• “In the Morning Day” – 4:23
• “Kohoutek” – 6:40
• “To Play Some Music” – 3:16
• “Topaz” – 6:09
• “In My Lonely Feeling / Conversations” – 4:56
• “Mystery Mountain” – 4:25

Look into the Future

Released: January 1976

Released just a year after their debut, “Look into the Future” was Journey’s second studio album. The band continued in a similar vein, leaning heavily towards progressive rock with intricate instrumental arrangements. The title track and “On a Saturday Nite” are often cited as highlights. However, the album failed to bring substantial commercial success, although it was a step forward in terms of songwriting and complexity. Neal Schon on guitars, Ross Valory on bass, and Gregg Rolie on keyboards and vocals returned for this album, with Aynsley Dunbar continuing to provide the drum work. The album was produced by Glen Kolotkin and was recorded at CBS Studios in San Francisco during late 1975.

• “Look into the Future” – 8:08
• “On a Saturday Nite” – 4:02
• “It’s All Too Much” – 4:03
• “Anyway” – 4:12
• “She Makes Me (Feel Alright)” – 2:43
• “You’re on Your Own” – 5:54
• “Look into the Future” – 8:13

Released: February 1977

“Next,” Journey’s third studio album, represents the end of an era for the band in terms of their experimentation with progressive rock and jazz fusion. Songs like “Spaceman” and “Hustler” continue to echo their earlier styles but also hint at the more commercial sound the band would later adopt. While not commercially successful upon its release, it gained some retrospective recognition for marking a transitional phase for the band. As with the previous albums, the lineup featured Neal Schon on guitars, Gregg Rolie on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass, and Aynsley Dunbar on drums. Produced by Glen Kolotkin and recorded at His Master’s Wheels Studio in San Francisco in late 1976, “Next” was the last Journey album to feature solely Gregg Rolie on lead vocals.

• “Spaceman” – 4:01
• “People” – 5:19
• “I Would Find You” – 5:20
• “Here We Are” – 4:16
• “Hustler” – 3:14
• “Next” – 5:26
• “Nickel & Dime” – 4:13
• “Karma” – 5:12

Released: January 20, 1978

“Infinity” marked a major turning point in Journey’s career, introducing vocalist Steve Perry and adopting a more mainstream, radio-friendly sound. Produced by Roy Thomas Baker and recorded at His Master’s Wheels Studio and Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles in late 1977, the album was a commercial success. It featured hits like “Lights” and “Wheel in the Sky,” which have since become staples of classic rock radio. The album peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified 3x Platinum in the United States. “Infinity” was the last album to feature Aynsley Dunbar before he was replaced by Steve Smith. Alongside Dunbar, the album featured Neal Schon on guitars, Ross Valory on bass, Gregg Rolie on keyboards and vocals, and the newly added Steve Perry on vocals.

• “Lights” – 3:09
• “Feeling That Way” – 3:26
• “Anytime” – 3:28
• “Lă Do Dā” – 2:55
• “Patiently” – 3:09
• “Wheel in the Sky” – 4:12
• “Somethin’ to Hide” – 3:26
• “Winds of March” – 5:04
• “Can Do” – 2:39
• “Opened the Door” – 4:34

Released: April 5, 1979

“Evolution” was Journey’s fifth studio album, and it marked the band’s continued move toward a mainstream rock sound. It was produced by Roy Thomas Baker and recorded at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles. Featuring singles like “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” and “Just the Same Way,” the album helped to further cement the band’s commercial viability. “Evolution” peaked at No. 20 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified 3x Platinum in the United States. The lineup for this album remained the same as “Infinity,” with Neal Schon on guitars, Ross Valory on bass, Gregg Rolie on keyboards and vocals, Steve Smith on drums, and Steve Perry on vocals.

• “Majestic” – 1:16
• “Too Late” – 2:58
• “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” – 3:54
• “City of the Angels” – 3:12
• “When You’re Alone (It Ain’t Easy)” – 3:10
• “Sweet and Simple” – 4:12
• “Lovin’ You Is Easy” – 3:38
• “Just the Same Way” – 3:18
• “Do You Recall” – 3:13
• “Daydream” – 4:41
• “Lady Luck” – 3:35

Released: March 23, 1980

“Departure,” Journey’s sixth studio album, featured a harder rock sound compared to its predecessors. Recorded at The Automatt Studios in San Francisco and produced by Geoff Workman and Kevin Elson, “Departure” spawned hits like “Any Way You Want It” and “Walks Like a Lady.” The album reached No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified 3x Platinum. This was the last studio album to feature Gregg Rolie, who was replaced by Jonathan Cain.

• “Any Way You Want It” – 3:22
• “Walks Like a Lady” – 3:16
• “Someday Soon” – 3:32
• “People and Places” – 5:04
• “Precious Time” – 4:48
• “Where Were You” – 3:01
• “I’m Cryin'” – 2:53
• “Line of Fire” – 3:18
• “Departure” – 0:38
• “Good Morning Girl” – 1:44
• “Stay Awhile” – 2:48
• “Homemade Love” – 2:56

Dream, After Dream

Released: December 10, 1980

“Dream, After Dream,” an often-overlooked album in the Journey discography, served as a soundtrack for the Japanese film of the same name. The music showcased a more orchestrated and experimental side of the band. It was the last Journey album to involve Gregg Rolie and was not as commercially successful as their previous works. It was recorded in Osaka, Japan and was produced by Kevin Elson.

• “Destiny” – 5:32
• “Snow Theme” – 5:15
• “Sand Castles” – 4:50
• “A Few Coins” – 0:54
• “Moon Theme” – 1:41
• “When the Love Has Gone” – 5:03
• “Festival Dance” – 0:59
• “The Rape” – 1:23
• “Little Girl” – 5:51

Released: July 31, 1981

“Escape” was a landmark album for Journey, featuring some of the band’s most iconic songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Who’s Crying Now,” and “Open Arms.” Produced by Mike Stone and Kevin Elson, and recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, “Escape” was a massive commercial success. It was the first Journey album to feature Jonathan Cain, who replaced Gregg Rolie on keyboards. The album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified 9x Platinum in the United States.

• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – 4:11
• “Stone in Love” – 4:25
• “ Who’s Crying Now” – 5:00
• “Keep On Runnin'” – 3:39
• “Still They Ride” – 3:49
• “Escape” – 5:16
• “Lay It Down” – 4:13
• “Dead or Alive” – 3:20
• “Mother, Father” – 5:28
• “Open Arms” – 3:18

Released: February 22, 1983

“Frontiers,” Journey’s eighth studio album, continued the band’s commercial success from “Escape.” This is the most underrated Journey album. The sound of this record is incredible. Produced by Mike Stone and Kevin Elson, this album was recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. It featured hits like “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Faithfully,” and “Send Her My Love.” “Frontiers” reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified 6x Platinum in the United States.

• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” – 5:26
• “Send Her My Love” – 3:55
• “Chain Reaction” – 4:20
• “After the Fall” – 5:01
• “Faithfully” – 4:24
• “Edge of the Blade” – 4:30
• “Troubled Child” – 4:29
• “Back Talk” – 3:18
• “Frontiers” – 4:04
• “Rubicon” – 4:19

Raised on Radio

Released: May 27, 1986

Breaking a three-year silence, Journey returned with “Raised on Radio,” an album that reflected the changing musical landscape of the late ’80s. Produced by Steve Perry and recorded at Fantasy Studios, it had a more streamlined, pop-oriented sound. Despite significant line-up changes, the album was commercially successful, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart and going 2x Platinum.

• “Girl Can’t Help It” – 3:50
• “Positive Touch” – 4:17
• “Suzanne” – 3:38
• “Be Good to Yourself” – 3:51
• “Once You Love Somebody” – 4:40
• “Happy to Give” – 3:50
• “Raised on Radio” – 3:49
• “I’ll Be Alright Without You” – 4:50
• “It Could Have Been You” – 3:36
• “The Eyes of a Woman” – 4:33
• “Why Can’t This Night Go on Forever” – 3:41

Trial by Fire

Released: October 22, 1996

Journey’s “Trial by Fire” was a reunion album featuring the band’s classic lineup. Produced by Kevin Shirley and recorded at Wildhorse Studios in Novato, California, the album was well-received by fans. Although it couldn’t replicate the massive success of the band’s ’80s heyday, it still peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart and went Platinum.

• “Message of Love” – 5:34
• “One More” – 5:28
• “When You Love a Woman” – 4:07
• “If He Should Break Your Heart” – 4:23
• “Forever in Blue” – 4:34
• “Castles Burning” – 6:00
• “Don’t Be Down on Me Baby” – 4:01
• “Still She Cries” – 5:04
• “Colors of the Spirit” – 5:35
• “When I Think of You” – 4:20
• “Easy to Fall” – 5:16
• “Can’t Tame the Lion” – 4:32
• “It’s Just the Rain” – 5:03
• “Trial by Fire” – 4:27
• “Baby I’m a Leavin’ You” – 2:48

Released: April 3, 2001

Marking a new era for the band, “Arrival” was the first Journey album to feature Steve Augeri on lead vocals, replacing Steve Perry. Produced by Kevin Shirley and recorded at Avatar Studios in New York City, it failed to achieve the commercial success of previous albums but was appreciated by the band’s dedicated fan base. Of course, there were many who were not happy that Steve Perry was no longer a part of the band, and the low album sales was further proof of the fans who were upset over the loss of Perry

• “Higher Place” – 5:11
• “All the Way” – 3:35
• “Signs of Life” – 4:54
• “All the Things” – 4:21
• “Loved by You” – 4:02
• “Livin’ to Do” – 6:19
• “World Gone Wild” – 6:00
• “I Got a Reason” – 4:00
• “With Your Love” – 4:25
• “Lifetime of Dreams” – 5:28
• “Live and Breathe” – 5:17
• “Nothin’ Comes Close” – 5:41
• “To Be Alive Again” – 4:20
• “Kiss Me Softly” – 4:46
• “I Was Made of You” – 4:29

Generations

Released: August 29, 2005

Journey returned in 2005 with “Generations,” which was the first album to feature drummer Deen Castronovo on lead vocals for several tracks, alternating with Steve Augeri. Produced by Kevin Shirley, the album was recorded at The Plant Studios, Sausalito, California. The album includes a variety of styles, blending traditional Journey elements with more modern influences. Musicians featured on “Generations” included Steve Augeri on lead vocals, Neal Schon on guitars and vocals, Jonathan Cain on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass and vocals, and Deen Castronovo on drums, percussion, and vocals.

• “Faith in the Heartland” – 6:02
• “The Place in Your Heart” – 4:24
• “A Better Life” – 5:45
• “Every Generation” – 5:52
• “Butterfly (She Flies Alone)” – 5:55
• “Believe” – 5:45
• “Knowing That You Love Me” – 4:12
• “Out of Harms Way” – 5:16
• “In Self-Defense” – 5:32
• “Better Together” – 5:14
• “Gone Crazy” – 4:25
• “Beyond the Clouds” – 7:52

Released: June 3, 2008

Journey’s “Revelation” marked a pivotal point in the band’s long and storied career, primarily because it was their second album with Arnel Pineda on lead vocals. Produced by Kevin Shirley, “Revelation” was recorded at The Plant Studios in Sausalito, California, and Avatar Studios in New York.

The album is a triple-disc set. The first disc features 11 new songs, while the second contains 11 re-recorded classics featuring Pineda’s vocals, allowing both old and new fans to experience Journey’s classics in a new light. The third disc is a DVD of a live concert.

The album captures Journey’s classic rock sound, while also infusing new energy. Hits like “Never Walk Away” and “After All These Years” became fan favorites and enjoyed radio airplay. The album went on to receive platinum certification and peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Musicians on “Revelation” include Arnel Pineda on lead vocals, Neal Schon on guitars and vocals, Jonathan Cain on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass and vocals, and Deen Castronovo on drums, percussion, and vocals.

CD 1 Track Listings:

• “Never Walk Away” – 4:19
• “Like a Sunshower” – 4:29
• “Change for the Better” – 5:52
• “Wildest Dream” – 5:02
• “Faith in the Heartland” – 6:18
• “After All These Years” – 4:10
• “Where Did I Lose Your Love” – 5:02
• “What I Needed” – 5:28
• “What It Takes to Win” – 5:23
• “Turn Down the World Tonight” – 4:56
• “The Journey (Revelation)” – 3:17

CD 2 Track Listings (Re-recorded classics):

• “Only the Young” – 4:14
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – 4:55
• “Wheel in the Sky” – 5:01
• “Faithfully” – 4:47
• “Any Way You Want It” – 3:25
• “Who’s Crying Now” – 5:44
• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” – 5:27
• “Lights” – 3:16
• “Open Arms” – 3:22
• “Be Good to Yourself” – 4:29
• “Stone in Love” – 4:26

DVD Track Listing (Live in Concert):

• “Intro Medley: The Journey (Revelation)/Majestic”
• “Never Walk Away”
• “Only the Young”
• “Ask the Lonely”
• “Stone in Love”
• “Keep On Runnin'”
• “After All These Years”
• “Change for the Better”
• “Wheel in the Sky”
• “Lights”
• “Still They Ride”
• “Open Arms”
• “Mother, Father”
• “Wildest Dream”
• “When You Love a Woman”
• “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”
• “What I Needed”
• “Edge of the Blade”
• “Where Did I Lose Your Love”
• “Escape”
• “Faithfully”
• “Don’t Stop Believin’”

Released: May 24, 2011

“Eclipse” is the 14th studio album by Journey. Also featuring Arnel Pineda on vocals, the album aimed for a heavier sound than its predecessor. Produced by Kevin Shirley, it was recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. Despite receiving positive reviews for its musical direction, it did not achieve high commercial success.

• “City of Hope” – 6:01
• “Edge of the Moment” – 5:27
• “Chain of Love” – 6:10
• “Tantra” – 6:27
• “Anything Is Possible” – 5:21
• “Resonate” – 5:10
• “She’s a Mystery” – 6:41
• “Human Feel” – 6:43
• “Ritual” – 4:57
• “To Whom It May Concern” – 5:15
• “Someone” – 4:34
• “Venus” – 3:30

Released: July 8, 2022

Freedom features the return of bassist Randy Jackson.

1. Together We Run 2. Don’t Give Up On Us 3. Still Believe In Love 4. You Got The Best Of Me 5. Live To Love Again 6. The Way We Used To Be 7. Come Away With Me 8. After Glow 9. Let It Rain 10. Holdin On 11. All Day And All Night 12. Don’t Go 13. United We Stand 14. Life Rolls On 15. Beautiful As You Are

JOURNEY LIVE ALBUMS

Released 1981

Captured is Journey’s first live album, released on January 30, 1981. This album marked the end of the band’s successful run in the late ’70s into the ’80s with Steve Perry. The album charted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified platinum, which attests to its commercial success.

The album features Steve Perry on lead vocals, Neal Schon on guitar, Ross Valory on bass, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, and Steve Smith on drums. The record was produced by Kevin Elson and Steve Perry. Captured was released on the Columbia Records label. The album was recorded during various shows in 1980 but primarily on the “Departure” tour.

• “Where Were You” – 3:22
• “Just the Same Way” – 3:37
• “Line of Fire” – 3:26
• “Lights” – 3:30
• “Too Late” – 3:44
• “Dixie Highway” – 6:51
• “Feeling That Way” – 3:14
• “Anytime” – 4:27
• “Do You Recall” – 3:26
• “Walks Like a Lady” – 7:05
• “La Do Da” – 7:02
• “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” – 5:16
• “Wheel in the Sky” – 5:03
• “Any Way You Want It” – 3:39
• “The Party’s Over (Hopelessly in Love)” – 3:42

Greatest Hits Live

Released 1998

Greatest Hits Live is not an official studio album by Journey, but a compilation of live performances released on October 13, 1998. It’s a compilation of recordings taken from various concerts, primarily during the period when Steve Perry was the lead vocalist.

This collection features Steve Perry on vocals, Neal Schon on guitar, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, Ross Valory on bass, and Steve Smith on drums. It was released on the Columbia Records label.

• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – 4:19
• “Lights” – 3:20
• “Open Arms” – 3:21
• “Mother, Father” – 5:27
• “La Do Da” – 7:03
• “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” – 5:09
• “Who’s Crying Now” – 5:46
• “Ask the Lonely” – 3:23
• “Girl Can’t Help It” – 4:29

Live in Houston 1981: The Escape Tour

Released 2005

“Live in Houston 1981: The Escape Tour” is a live DVD/CD package by the American rock band Journey, released on November 15, 2005. The concert was recorded and filmed at The Summit in Houston, Texas on November 6, 1981, during the band’s tour for their then-newly released “Escape” album, which had been released in July of that year. The album peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 chart for music videos and was certified Platinum by the RIAA.

The lineup for this live recording included Steve Perry on lead vocals, Neal Schon on lead guitar, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, Ross Valory on bass, and Steve Smith on drums. The album was produced by Steve Perry and Neal Schon.

• “Escape” – 5:17
• “Line of Fire” – 3:07
• “Lights” – 3:17
• “Stay Awhile” – 2:26
• “Open Arms” – 3:09
• “Mother, Father” – 5:22
• “Jonathan Cain Solo” – 1:53
• “Who’s Crying Now” – 5:41
• “Where Were You” – 3:18
• “Steve Smith Solo” – 3:54
• “Dead or Alive” – 3:30
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – 4:09
• “Stone in Love” – 5:00
• “Keep On Runnin'” – 4:01
• “Neal Schon Solo” – 2:21
• “Wheel in the Sky” – 5:56
• “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'” – 5:14
• “Anyway You Want It” – 3:39

Escape & Frontiers Live in Japan

Released 2019

“Escape & Frontiers Live in Japan” was released on April 3, 2019, and captures Journey’s performance at the Budokan in Tokyo on February 7, 2017. This special live performance was a unique set where Journey played their “Escape” and “Frontiers” albums back-to-back in their entirety.

The lineup for this recording featured Arnel Pineda on lead vocals, Neal Schon on lead guitar, Ross Valory on bass, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, and Steve Smith on drums. The album was produced by Journey and was released through Eagle Vision.

• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – 4:15
• “Who’s Crying Now” – 5:01
• “Troubled Child” – 4:04
• “Frontiers” – 4:10

Complete List Of Journey Albums And Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023

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Journey’s 10 Best Songs

Sure, "Don't Stop Believin'" -- but there's a whole lot more.

By Gary Graff

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Though it arrives amidst lawsuits , social media sniping and infighting, Journey is turning 50 this year.

During that half century, the group has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, logging 11 platinum-or-better albums (including Diamond certifications for 1981’s Escape and 1988’s Greatest Hits) , earning eight top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 and 25 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s also been a reliable ticket-selling act for most of its career, and in 2017, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Journey’s is the story of eras. When the group originally formed in San Francisco in 1973, original manager Herbie Herbert helped bring together guitarist Neal Schon and keyboard player/vocalist Gregg Rolie from Santana, bassist Ross Valory and rhythm guitarist George Tickner from Frumious Bandersnatch and drummer Prairie Prince from The Tubes. Prince would be replaced by David Bowie/Frank Zappa skins man Aynsley Dunbar, while Tickner would leave after Journey’s self-titled first album in 1975. The remaining quartet recorded two more albums before Steve Perry came on board for 1978’s Infinity, which began the band’s run of multi-platinum smashes — also marking the first appearance of Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse’s iconic scarab logo for the band. Dunbar was replaced by Steve Smith for 1979’s Evolution , and Rolie would leave in 1980 with Jonathan Cain of The Babys joining to help elevate the band to even greater fortunes on Escape and Frontiers .

The palette has been diverse, but there are common elements among Journey’s best songs — sturdy melodies and sing-along choruses, usually leading into one of Schon’s majestic guitar solos. But within that mold there’s also been plenty of invention and clever arrangements that have never been as formulaic as some of the band’s detractors (particularly during their early ‘80s heyday) would have you believe.

Journey has gone through its fair share of lineups, with singer Arnel Pineda on board since 2007 — the longest continuous tenure of any Journey frontman. The group released Freedom , it’s first new studio album in 11 years, in 2022, and despite the current legal fractures (which you can read about in detail here ), still they ride, as the Escape track says — and may they keep on runnin’ for a long time.

With all that in mind, here are our picks for Journey’s 10 best songs — not all of which come from the biggest hits.

"Someday Soon" ( Departure , 1980)

This album track from Rolie’s finally studio effort with the band is a hypnotic tone poem, with a ringing, cushy ambience and a hippie kind of optimism – not to mention the best give-and-take Perry and Rolie achieved during their time together in the band. It’s of course been eclipsed by Journey’s myriad hits (“Any Way You Want It” is the enduring top 40 Hot 100 hit from Departure ), but it’s a gem worthy of discovery.  Listen here.

"Escape" ( Escape , 1981)

The title track from Journey’s Billboard 200-topping studio album straddled the hard rock/pomp attack of the group’s mid-‘70s output with the melodic sensibility of the Perry-Cain axis. Its five-minute length provides room for the arrangement to stretch out and flow from one song part to the next, with a crunch that was part of Journey’s palette at the time. Listen here.

"Of a Lifetime" ( Journey , 1975)

The Journey of 1973-77 was certainly a different creature than the hitmaking colossus so many know and love. The group’s initial lineups flexed instrumental muscles, smoothly knitting together a number of styles more interested in the journey (ba- dum ) than any commercial destination. The first track from its first album is a prototype, leaning into blues, psychedelic rock and a touch of Latin, with the first of what would become many standout Schon solos, and a tuneful sturdiness delivered by Rolie’s soulful vocal. Listen here.

"Faithfully" (Frontiers , 1983)

The melody of this top 20 Hot 100 hit came to Cain in a dream on a tour bus, and his paean to the struggle between home and the road was written in a half-hour. The result was a swoon-inducing ballad tailor-made for a sea of lighters (back then) and cellphone flashlights (now), capturing one of Perry’s best recorded performances and one of Schon’s most inspired solos. One of its great side stories is that Prince contacted Cain after he wrote “Purple Rain,” concerned that it might be too similar to “Faithfully.” Cain determined it wasn’t, but joked to Billboard that, “After seeing what it became, I should have asked for a couple of points….”

"Ask the Lonely" (single, 1983)

Recorded for Frontiers , this one wound up in the romcom Two of a Kind (starring the Grease duo of John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John) and rocked its way to No. 3 on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Like “Only the Young,” which wound up in Vision Quest two years later, it showed that Journey was on roll – and well-suited for big soundtrack moments. Listen here.

"Who's Crying Now" ( Escape, 1981)

The best of Journey’s swoon songs — started by Perry while driving into Los Angeles and finished with Cain — has a subtlety and dynamic build that sets it apart from the many others of its ilk they’d create. The verse slips into the chorus with a soulful ease, and Schon’s guitar accents deftly build up to his searing solo at the end. The Escape single reached No. 4 on the Hot 100. Listen here.

"Feeling That Way" ( Infinity , 1978)

If fans at the time wondered how Steve Perry and Gregg Rolie would co-exist, this was the answer — an ebb-and-flow tradeoff that proved they could complement each other as lead singers as well as harmonize smoothly together (first evidenced by Infinity ‘s lead track “Lights”). Its medley-like pairing with the next track, “Anytime,” was gravy that would become a motif on the next few Journey albums. Listen here.

"Just the Same Way" ( Evolution , 1979)

Journey’s fifth album had a punchier sound than Infinity — though they shared producer Roy Thomas Baker — which worked to the benefit of the album’s first single. Led by Rolie’s piano and muscular lead vocal, with Perry responding on the choruses and bridge, it reached No. 58 on the Hot 100 in 1979. In a perfect world this would have been as big as anything from Escape or Frontiers, but it’s still a convincing introduction to the Rolie era of the band. Listen here.

"Don't Stop Believin'" ( Escape , 1981)

More than a billion Spotify streams, a Library of Congress National Recording Registry placement and plays at virtually every sporting event around the world don’t lie — this one is Journey’s pinnacle of success. Created during a rehearsal at the group’s warehouse HQ in Oakland, Calif., it gave us the “streetlight people” of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and put the non-existent South Detroit on the map. And it saves the chorus for the song’s end, after the guitar solo. A cross-generational hit? Believe it, gleefully.

"Stone in Love" ( Escape , 1981)

Schon reportedly called this “Stoned in Love” when he wrote the riff, and it’s certainly an addictive track that’s the best roll-down-the-windows-and-crank-it-up Journey fix you could ask for — not to mention a frequent show opener. A No. 13 Mainstream Rock Airplay hit in 1981, the song is practically a deep cut today. But its anthemic chorus is a spirit-lifter and the dynamic breakdown that segues into the song-closing guitar solo harks back to the ambitious musicality of the first few albums. “Stone” is a gem that still shines bright. Listen here.

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The Best Journey Songs Of All Time

What is Journey's biggest hit? Here are the best Journey songs of all time, ranked by fans everywhere. Journey are indisputably known as one of the greatest rock bands to ever walk the Earth, with former lead singer Steve Perry even crowned "the voice" by many industry moguls. Established in San Francisco, CA, in 1973, Journey has sold out countless concert tours worldwide throughout their five decade career. The arena rock band's legendary music and unparalleled performance style ultimately led to their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017. Some of Journey's top songs include "Don't Stop Believin'" ( Escape , 1981), "Any Way You Want It" ( Departure , 1980), "Lights" ( Infinity , 1978), "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" ( Frontiers , 1983), and "Wheel In The Sky" ( Infinity , 1978).

From their new and latest music to their older popular songs, this Journey playlist features all of their greatest hits, according to the fans. Do your favorite Journey songs crack the top 10? Vote up the best songs by Journey, and don't forget to show their underrated tracks love as well.

Don't Stop Believin'

Best Lyrics:

Strangers waiting Up and down the boulevard Their shadows searching in the night Streetlights, people Living just to find emotion Hiding somewhere in the night

And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I'm forever yours, faithfully

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Someday, love will find you Break those chains that bind you One night will remind you How we touched and went our separate ways

If he ever hurts you True love won't desert you You know I still love you Though we touched and went our separate ways

Stone in Love

In the heat with a blue jean girl Burning love comes once in a lifetime She found me singing by the rail road tracks Took me home, we danced by the moonlight

Those summer nights are calling Stone in love Can't help myself, I'm falling

Send Her My Love

Callin' out your name I'm dreamin' Reflections of a face I'm seein' It's her voice That keeps on haunting me

Send her, send her my love Roses never fade Memories remain

Feeling That Way

Opened my eyes to a new kind of way All the good times that you saved Are you feeling You feeling that way too Or am I just Am I just a fool

Wheel in the Sky

Winter is here again, oh lord Haven't been home in a year or more I hope she holds on a little longer Sent a letter on a long summer day Made of silver, not of clay I've been runnin' down this dusty road

Wheel in the sky keeps on turnin' I don't know where I'll be tomorrow

When the lights go down in the City And the sun shines on the bay Ooh, I wanna be there in my City, oh Oh, oh, oh

Who's Crying Now

One love, feeds the fire One heart, burns desire I wonder who's crying now? Two hearts, born to run Who'll be the lonely one? I wonder who's crying now?

Any Way You Want It

She said, any way you want it That's the way you need it Any way you want it

I was alone I never knew What good love could do Ooh, then we touched Then we sang About the lovin' things

Ask The Lonely

You've got some fascination With you high expectations This love is your obsession Your heart, your past possession Let down your defenses Won't be up to the one who cares

Still They Ride

Spinning 'round, in a spell It's hard to leave this carousel 'Round and 'round And 'round and 'round

Still they ride, on wheels of fire They rule the night Still they ride, the strong will survive Chasing thunder

Only the Young

Shadows of a golden age A generation waits for dawn Brave carry on Bold and the strong

Only the young can say They're free to fly away Sharing the same desire Burnin' like wildfire

Be Good To Yourself

Runnin' out of self-control Gettin' close to an overload Up against a no win situation Shoulder to shoulder, push and shove I'm hangin' up my boxin' gloves I'm ready for a long vacation

Be good to yourself when, nobody else will Oh be good to yourself You're walkin' a high-wire, caught in a crossfire

Touchin', Lovin', Squeezin'

It won't be long, yes, till you're alone When your lover, oh, he hasn't come home 'Cause he's lovin' who he's touchin', he's squeezin' another

He's tearin' you apart Ooh, every day, every day

Girl Can't Help It

If he could hold her, so close in his arms again If she could show him The letter her heart forgot to send why They're livin' dreams on their own Ooh they'll never stop running

The girl can't help it, she needs more He hasn't found what he's lookin' for They're still standing in the rain He can't help it, and she's just that way

Just The Same Way

Take a chance now the timing's right. You're free to leave the key to my life. Stay with me. Won't you stay the night, In the mornin' feelin' fine, yeah.

That's the same way you love me. 

I'll Be Alright Without You

I'll be alright without you Oh love's an empty face, I can't replace (You don't need it) People wonderin' why we broke apart The great pretender here I go again These things I do (It's all because of you) I'll keep holdin' but I'll try (Try not to think of you)

Mother, Father

Through bitter tears And wounded years, those ties Of blood were strong So much to say, those yesterdays So now don't you turn away.

Hey, mother, father, sister Hey, come back, tryin', believein' Hey, mother, father, dreamer

The Party's Over (Hopelessly In Love)

So I will tell you this, Our love is in a fix. Just what more can I do. When I'm hopelessly in love with you?

When You Love A Woman

When you love a woman You see your world inside her eyes When you love a woman (Well) You know she's standing by your side A joy that lasts forever There's a band of gold that shines Waiting somewhere, oh, yeah

I see your face at the movies I hear your voice on the radio You're making love on the silver screen I want you more than you will ever know Temptation...Infatuation

Suzanne, don't walk away

After The Fall

But a head strong stubborn man Only works it out the best he can Valentines he never sent There's not enough time he's a working man

Can't stop falling Heartaches calling Finds you after the fall

Why Can't This Night Go On Forever

Lost in twilight, the memories Precious moments, you and me We've been old friends, all through the years Picture postcards, sharing tears

What's in our hearts, there's never time, to say Need you tonight, lover don't fade away I've seen your city lights As I walk away Why can't this night...go on forever

After All These Years

A faded wedding photograph You and me in our first dance Our eyes are closed We're lost in one sweet embrace Since those days the world has changed But our love remains the same God knows we've had our share of saving grace

Where Were You

I didn't know what the hell was goin' on, Someday you're gonna break. So don't try to get yourself straight, You're just a little too late.

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Ranking All 52 Journey Songs From the ’80s

Journey moved more than 6 million albums in America in the '70s, most of them after Steve Perry joined in time for 1978's Infinity . Not bad.

Then their second proper studio album of the following decade, 1983's Frontiers , sold more than that all but itself. By then, however, they'd amassed so much commercial momentum that this LP was actually considered something of a letdown.

Journey kicked off the '80s with a trio of very different farewell projects as co-founder Gregg Rolie left the band. The Top 10 hit Departure arrived first as a proper studio album, selling three million copies. Journey followed that with Dream, After Dream (a little-heard largely free-form import movie soundtrack) and Captured , a double-platinum Top 10 live sendoff with two new songs.

Then Jonathan Cain supercharged the band's more recent pop-leanings, bringing along a new sensibility (and a song idea for their highest-charting single). Perry was still their honeyed frontman and Neal Schon was still their soaring guitarist – but something fundamental had changed.

READ MORE: Top 10 Post-Steve Perry Journey Songs

The chart-topping Escape proceeded to reel off three Top 10 hits, while moving a career-best 10 million copies in the United States alone. Prior to that, they'd never had a song go higher than the No. 16 finish for 1979's "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin.'"

Journey couldn't quite reach those heights again, concluding the decade with 1986's double-platinum Raised on Radio . But they still spun off four more Top 20 hits.

Along the way, they issued a little more than 50 proper songs in the '80s, including B-sides, bonus tracks and stand-alone releases. Here's how they ranked, with comments and insight from my new Amazon best-selling rock and pop band bio, Journey: Worlds Apart :  

No. 52. "Back Talk" From: Frontiers (1983)

This song almost single-handedly kept Frontiers from becoming Journey's best '80s album . That's enough to earn this spot.  

No. 51. "Departure" From: Departure (1980)

Pretty but insubstantial, this brief instrumental was tucked into the middle of co-founding member Gregg Rolie's last proper studio effort with Journey.  

No. 50. "I'm Cryin'" From: Departure (1980)

Steve Perry usually had a canny ability to convey emotion. "I'm Cryin'," however, slipped off into abject mawkishness.  

No. 49. "Positive Touch" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

The demos for this album were completed with a click track rather than in a room together as Journey had typically done in the past. That left drummer Steve Smith to either copy these metronomic sounds – heard to teeth-grating effect on "Positive Touch" – or to stay home. Partway through the sessions, it became the latter.  

No. 48. "Liberty" From: Time3 (1992)

A Frontiers -era leftover for those who wondering what Journey would sound like as a country band.  

No. 47. "Troubled Child" From: Frontiers (1983)

Another Side Two dud. Replace this with "Only the Young" or "Only Solutions," and all is forgiven.

No. 46. "Happy to Give" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Perry had trouble nailing the vocal on this too-atmospheric ballad, which should have told them something. (In fact, it got to the point where Cain started calling "Happy to Give" Perry's "pet song.") It's understandable: "Happy to Give" grew out of a soundtrack idea Cain had, and it sounds like it. Journey never played the song live.  

No. 45. "La Raza Del Sol" From: B-side of "Still They Ride" (1981)

The song's heart is in the right place, as Cain finds inspiration in the plight of immigrant California farm workers. Unfortunately, that narrative is surrounded by a meandering music bed that sounds like a rightly discarded leftover from their pre-Perry days.  

No. 44. "Mother, Father" From: Escape (1981)

An overwrought, understandably disjointed song that was pieced together from two separate ideas by Perry and Schon, then completed with another interlude written by Schon's dad.  

No. 43. "All That Really Matters" From: Time3 (1992)

Jonathan Cain took over the mic for this Frontiers outtake, returning to a sound that's more in keeping with his earlier tenure in the Babys . That's fine, but it's not Journey.  

No. 42. "Homemade Love" From: Departure (1980)

Despite discovering a newfound chart prowess, Journey was still prone to longing looks back to their earliest musical excesses. In keeping, this sludgy, clumsily salacious song couldn't have sounded more out of place on Departure . Positioning "Homemade Love" as the album-closing song made even less sense.  

No. 41. "Dixie Highway" From: Captured (1981)

"Dixie Highway" sounds like what it was: a throwaway track written on Journey's tour bus while traveling the eponymous interstate into Detroit. It was perhaps interesting enough to be tried out live, but not interesting enough to make it onto a studio album.

No. 40. "Keep On Runnin'" From: Escape (1981)

A pedestrian rocker, "Keep on Runnin'" is the only stumble on Side One of Journey's biggest-ever selling album.  

No. 39. "Dead or Alive" From: Escape (1981)

The second of two throwback-style songs on Escape that seek to approximate Journey's more rugged, fusion-leaning '70s-era, and the lesser of the pair. That "Dead or Alive" came directly after the too-similar "Lay It Down" didn't do the song any favors, either.  

No. 38. "Escape" From: Escape (1981)

Cain and Perry are credited as co-composers, but the title track from Escape still feels like the first of what became a series of not-always-successful attempts by Neal Schon to balance Journey's new knack for balladry with ballsier rock songs. That's certainly the role it played in contemporary setlists after he became the band's sole remaining original member.  

No. 37. "Line of Fire" From: Departure (1980)

A perfunctory rocker best remembered for a sound effect at roughly the 2:10 mark that Perry cribbed from Junior Walker's chart-topping 1965 R&B hit "Shotgun ."  

No. 36. "Precious Time" From: Departure (1980)

Rolie adds a gurgling harp squall, but not much else stands out.

No. 35. "Lay It Down" From: Escape (1981)

Steve Smith approximates early drummer Aynsley Dunbar's thudding, heavy-rock approach while Schon swirls into the stratosphere on one of two songs from Escape that could have seamlessly fit into a Rolie-era album.  

No. 34. "Chain Reaction" From: Frontiers (1983)

Schon finds a fusible groove, then joins Perry for a gutty vocal interplay. But "Chain Reaction" ends up getting lost somewhere along the way.  

No. 33. "Once You Love Somebody" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

They tried for a bluesy feel on a song echoing the relationship troubles that both Perry and Cain were then experiencing, but there's simply not enough grit to this.  

No. 32. "Natural Thing" From: B-side of "Don't Stop Believin'" (1981)

Your average classic rock radio-loving fan might not peg Steve Perry as a died-in-the-wool R&B guy who can totally pull off this sometimes very un-Journey style. Tell them to start here.  

No. 31. "Rubicon" From: Frontiers (1983)

This song drove a seemingly permanent wedge in the band. Schon said he was playing "Rubicon" when Perry walked over and turned down his amp . He argued that fans wanted to hear his voice rather than all of those guitars. They put out only two more albums together, and it took them 13 years to do it.

No. 30. "Frontiers" From: Frontiers (1983)

The second-best song on this album's deflating flip side. Singing in a clipped, coolly detached tone, Perry offers a great put-down for heartless generals and politicians: " War is for fools; crisis is cool ."  

No. 29. "It Could Have Been You" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Schon's riffy contributions work in brilliant counterpoint to Perry's poignancy, underscoring why this partnership meshed so easily – and so well.  

No. 28. "Where Were You" From: Departure (1980)

There's a reason Journey opened their concerts with "Where Were You" for so long. It simply crackles with energy. They were just coming off an opening gig with AC/DC at this point, and the headliner's knack for outsized, riffy rockers obviously rubbed off.  

No. 27. "Little Girl" From: B-side of "Open Arms" (1981)

"Little Girl" was the the only proper song from 1980's Dream, After Dream , a soundtrack that's not part of the band's main catalog since it's otherwise filled with incidental music for a now-forgotten foreign film. Elsewhere, the instrumentals provide an untimely restatement of their old penchant for prog and fusion, considering Journey was already on a pop-chart roll. Dream After Dream disappeared without a trace once Journey issued  Escape , and the too-often-overlooked "Little Girl" only saw U.S. release as the B-side to their "Open Arms" single.  

No. 26. "Raised on Radio" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Radio holds a talismanic place in Perry's imagination for two reasons. His absent father owned a station. At the same time, it's a constant presence in the youthful places where he returns, time and time again, for creative sustenance. If things had gone another way, Perry has said he could see himself as a DJ, rather than a huge pop star.  

No. 25. "Ask the Lonely" From: Two of a Kind (1983)

Jonathan Cain once said Perry could write love songs in his sleep , and this only-okay leftover is an example of that assembly line-type approach. Yet, he gives his whole heart to every line. "This is my big theory on Steve Perry: Beyond being a great vocalist, I think the secret and maybe why generations connect with him is he is an empath," former Rolling Stone editor David Wild told me. By the end, "Ask the Lonely" still proves to be a better choice that most of what appeared on the back end of Frontiers .

No. 24. "Why Can't This Night Go on Forever" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Written in tribute to their fans, "Why Can't This Night Go on Forever" moved past its quite overt "Open Arms" / "Faithfully"-style ambitions on the strength of performances by Schon and Perry.

No. 23. "The Eyes of a Woman" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Steve Smith only appeared on three Raised on Radio tracks, but that doesn't mean he didn't have an undeniable impact. His anticipatory rhythm builds this quiet tension on the underrated "The Eyes of a Woman," as Schon's echoing chords surround the vocal. Perry has called this one of his favorite Journey songs, and that might be because "The Eyes of a Woman" is one of the very few here that fully recalls their Escape / Frontiers -era midtempo sound.

No. 22. "Suzanne" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

If Steve Perry sounds a little overwhelmed on the second single from this album, there's a reason for that. This No. 17 hit was written in tribute to an actual crush – framed as a fantasy encounter with a film star who also had a singing career. He never revealed her name.

No. 21. "Edge of the Blade" From: Frontiers (1983)

Side Two of Frontiers gets off to a roaring start. Buckle up, though. As things progress, you're in for a bumpy ride.

No. 20. "Be Good to Yourself" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

A throwback Top 10 rocker, "Be Good to Yourself" had little in common with the sleeker, more adult-contemporary feel found elsewhere on Raised on Radio . It didn't make for the most representative lead single, but manager Herbie Herbert insisted – because "Be Good to Yourself" sounded the most like Journey on their previous two albums.

No. 19. "I'll Be Alright Without You" From: 'Raised on Radio' (1986)

Schon, who earned a co-writing credit with Cain and Perry, told me he tried out a then-new guitar in search of a distinct sound for this song. Best known for using a 1963 Fender Stratocaster, Schon experimented with a graphite Roland 707 to see if he could get a different, more even tone. It worked: "I'll Be Alright Without You" remains Journey's penultimate Top 20 hit, followed by 1996's "When You Love a Woman." Cain, like Perry, was going through a breakup and called this track the other half of the emotions expressed in "Once You Love Somebody."

No. 18. "Only Solutions" From: Tron (1982)

Unjustly forgotten, and barely used in the film at all, the hooky "Only Solutions" would have greatly enlivened what turned out to be a letdown on Side Two of Frontiers .

No. 17. "People and Places" From: Departure (1980)

A circular vocal effect makes the song's larger point, as Perry and Schon share a vocal that examines life's maddening duality.

No. 16. "Faithfully" From: Frontiers (1983)

Journey was in the midst of a two-leg, 132-show tour in support of Escape and Jonathan Cain was feeling disconnected from his then-wife. Cain noticed the moon above their tour bus and, to him, "it looked like the midnight sun." He wrote that down then fell asleep. Upon awaking, Cain said the rest of "Faithfully" came to him in a rush. He wrote it in his own key, and that allowed Perry to explore a different vocal timbre. "'Faithfully' is to die for. I mean, Jonathan Cain's lyrics are amazing, and Steve Perry gave it everything he had," original MTV VJ Martha Quinn told me. "From the opening lines, he's just absolutely dripping with emotion. Every time you put the needle down, you can just feel it." Journey finished the song with a memorable back-and-forth between Perry and Schon, also completely unrehearsed.

No. 15. "Walks Like a Lady" From: Departure (1980)

A great example of the way Journey songs evolved in the studio. Perry brought in a rough sketch, Schon added a blues-inspired riff, then Smith picked up his brushes. All that was left to complete things was Rolie's greasy Hammond B3 groove, and he said it's one of his favorites.

No. 14. "Girl Can't Help It" From: Raised on Radio (1986)

Perry essentially took control of Journey in the run-up to this album, switching out band members for sidemen with whom he'd worked before then serving as the project's de facto producer. That led them to some song treatments that moved well away from anything Journey had done before, or since. "Girl Can't Help It," one of three Top 40 singles from Raised on Radio , was another exception. This was classic Journey, spit-shined up for a new era.

No. 13. "After the Fall" From: Frontiers (1983)

Perry began this song on the bass, perhaps an early indication of the changes in store for Journey. By the time they released 1986's Raised on Radio , Ross Valory had been replaced by Randy Jackson, later of American Idol fame. Smith departed too, but not before proving himself utterly invaluable here.

No. 12. "Good Morning Girl" / "Stay Awhile" From: Departure (1980)

Inextricably linked by their successive appearances on Departure , these two songs showcased Perry's dual gifts: "Good Morning Girl" was a fragile, impossibly beautiful ballad that emerged from a jam session with Schon, while "Stay Awhile" showed off his R&B chops.

No. 11. "Who's Crying Now" From: Escape (1981)

The initial single from Escape , a No. 4 hit, perfectly illustrates how Cain's new presence impacted Perry's writing style, then forever changed Journey. The first inklings of the track came to Perry as he was driving up to San Francisco on Route 99. But "Who's Crying Now" was a song with no real direction until Cain suggested the title. They worked out a cool b-section featuring only voice and keyboard, and their very first co-written composition was completed. "He helped me go to another place as a writer," Perry later gushed in Joel Selvin's Time3 liner notes. Inspired, Perry also fought to keep Schon's extended guitar solo on the single.

No. 10. "Someday Soon" From: Departure (1980)

The final major vocal collaboration featuring Perry and Rolie and, still, one of the more memorable for its thoughtful optimism. There were plenty of reasons for this upbeat outlook, even though "Someday Soon" appeared as Rolie exited. Departure reached the Billboard Top 10, then the band's highest-charting effort ever. Meanwhile, a subsequent, wildly successful tour was chronicled on 1981's Captured . But why weren't there more of these duets? "I didn't want to quit singing, but it got diminished, there's no doubt," Rolie told me. "I don't think Perry really liked me singing. 'I'm the singer.' Well, OK. But my answer to that is, you know, the Beatles did great with four singers. Four, right? Not one."

No. 9. "Open Arms" From: Escape (1981)

Jonathan Cain brought this to Journey after John Waite , the frontman in Cain's former band the Babys, rejected an early version. Schon didn't really want "Open Arms" either, but Perry intervened. He knew just what to do with it. "He was fascinating to write with because he's such a technician. I'd never worked with a vocal perfectionist," Cain told me. "I mean, he would memorize every line as we wrote it, then his voice — he'd put it in the register we wanted and deliver it how we wanted it. Steve rehearsed everything as we wrote it, so then when we got into the studio or rehearsal, he knew where it lived in his range. He was very specific about what words he wanted to say. I was kind of taken with it." That helped turn "Open Arms" a soaring paean to renewal. Oh, and Journey's highest-charting single ever.

No. 8. "Still They Ride" From: Escape (1981)

Cain and Schon earned co-songwriting credits on the lonesome "Still They Ride," and Steve Smith showed off an accomplished dexterity. But this song belonged in no small part to Perry. Its main character, Jesse, never left the town of his youth, and still drives through its darkening streets looking for some connection. Perry has admitted that this dreamer who refuses to give up on his youthful reverie works as a metaphor for himself. If you'd found yourself in mid-century Hanford, California, you might have seen Journey's future singer doing the same thing. Along the way, a touchingly emotional trip back to Perry's San Joaquin Valley youth showed that the seemingly ageless Escape could still produce a Top 20 single, more than a year after its release.

No. 7. "The Party's Over (Hopelessly in Love)" From: Captured (1981)

"After I left," Gregg Rolie told me, "it became more pop rock. It was a little heavier when I was in it." That transformation started with "The Party's Over," a Top 40 studio song tacked onto a live project which marked Rolie's exit. Journey's original keyboardist doesn't even appear on the track. Instead, the session featured Stevie "Keys" Roseman, who was later part of VTR with Ross Valory and George Tickner. He'd been working on a later-shelved project with Tickner, Valory and Schon in the next studio. He still hopes to have the old masters "baked so they can be released in some format," Roseman told me. "Neal played a couple of unbelievable solos that still need to be heard."

No. 6. "Stone in Love" From: Escape (1981)

Schon had a tape recorder going while he fooled around with the guitar during a party at his house in San Rafael. Perry and Cain did the rest. "Stone in Love" subsequently charted in the U.K., but never appeared on the main Cashbox or Billboard charts in America. After the release of "Open Arms" and "Still They Ride," however, it provided a welcome reminder that Journey had not given themselves completely over to balladry.

No. 5. "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" From: Frontiers (1983)

Cain and Perry looked on, feeling a little helpless, as Valory and Schon endured painful divorces. "There's got to be a more soulful way of looking at this," Perry countered in the Time3 liner notes. Just like that, the pair had the makings of the Top 10 opening single from Frontiers . "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" so energized Journey that they began performing it onstage before Perry had completely learned the words. Then they filmed a video that sharply divided some fans. "Rock aficionados may have said, 'Oh, that was cornball,'" Martha Quinn told me. "Well, ask people that are still doing send-ups today, down to every last camera angle. Those people love that video. That's something else you couldn't have predicted that would have stood the test of time — but it has. People love it."

No. 4. "Send Her My Love" From: Frontiers (1983)

One of four Top 40 hits found on the album, the lonesome No. 23 anthem "Send Her My Love" is notable for an ambient turn by Schon (he used a high-end Lexicon 480L echo unit) and perhaps the most intriguing drumming contribution on Journey's string of familiar ballads from Steve Smith. A jazz lover who later founded his own combo, Smith added a slyly involving polyrhythm lifted from Miles Davis' "In a Silent Way." "The drummer on that was Tony Williams," Smith told me, "and he played quarter notes with a cross-stick on the snare drum — a very hypnotic groove." Same here.

No. 3. "Only the Young" From: Vision Quest (1985)

Another song that, had it been included, might have pushed Frontiers past Escape as Journey's best Cain-era album. Instead, "Only the Young" appeared much later on this soundtrack, and by then Kenny Sykaluk – a 16-year-old fan suffering from cystic fibrosis – had already died after becoming the first person to hear it . The song is now credited with bringing Journey back together after a period of solo projects. "Only the Young" eventually opened every concert on Journey's subsequent tour, too. Still, it will be forever associated with Sykaluk's brave fight.

No. 2. "Any Way You Want It" From: Departure (1980)

Perry said the vocal and guitar interplay on "Any Way You Want It" was inspired by the performances of Phil Lynott , after Thin Lizzy opened for Journey. So, Perry sang "she loves to laugh," and Schon responded with a riff. Perry sang "she loves to sing," and Schon responded again. Then "she does everything" led into another guitar riff — just like Thin Lizzy might have. Perry and Rolie then brought a tight focus to the bursts of shared vocals that close things out, fashioning Journey's second-ever Top 40 hit – but not before Rodney Dangerfield's character in Caddyshack broke out in a hilariously awkward dance as "Any Way You Want It" blared out of a golf bag radio.

No. 1. "Don't Stop Believin'" From: Escape (1981)

It wasn't the biggest song of the year. In fact, "Don't Stop Believin'" finished at No. 72 on Billboard magazine’s year-ending Hot 100 singles of 1982. It wasn’t even the biggest song from Escape , which spun off not one but two songs that finished higher on the charts. It didn’t have a typical song structure, not referencing the title until 3:22 in, after three verses, two pre-choruses, and some abbreviated instrumental passages. It's set in a place — South Detroit — that doesn’t actually exist. So how did this become Journey's defining moment? "Who wants to keep believing? That would be everybody, you know?" Jonathan Cain told me. "And I think it's a certain song in uncertain times. You have this certainty about that song, and it has this rhythm to it that's just very assuring and very sure of itself. From the beginning piano line, it speaks — and it speaks to hope. I think people are looking for hope."

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The 10 best Journey songs

Let's face it, AOR just wouldn't have been the same without them – here are Journey's ten best tracks

For many, Journey are the band who define AOR better than anyone else. Their catalogue glitters with unforgettable anthems, which not only contain massive choruses, but also the sort of musicianship you might expect from a band who began life as jazz rock instrumentalists before embracing the melodic rock style for which they’re renowned. We've gone through the band's back catalogue and hand-picked their 10 finest moments.

10. Girl Can’t Help It (1986)

After taking a break from the band to work on his solo album Street Talk , vocalist Steve Perry was persuaded to return to the fold for 1986's Raised On Radio album. While the production shows a clear-cut influence of the times, Perry’s vocals shine as brightly as ever, while Jonathan Cain’s smooth keyboards complement Neal Schon ’s edgy guitar stride.

9. Faithfully (1983)

This is the way Journey explained the problems of trying to carry on a relationship while out on the road touring. One of the stand-out tracks from 1983's Frontiers , Faithfully has a soft lilt that exposes an emptiness. However, this is augmented by the lush rhythm and the way that Steve Perry croons his way through without ever wallowing in over emotional hyperbole. A power ballad in the best Journey tradition.

8. Lovin, Touchin’, Squeezin’ (1979)

Anyone who thinks that Journey aren’t capable of anything other than slushy ballads really should check out Lovin, Touchin’, Squeezin’ from 1979's Evolution album. It has a funk groove, and while the tempo is very much of the balladic kind, Neal Schon stabs through with some electrifying moments. What’s more, Steve Perry’s vocals soar impressively to ensure maximum dramatic impact. One of the highlights on Evolution .

7. Lights (1978)

The opening song from 1978's Infinity record – the album that introduced Steve Perry to the world, and also put the band’s new-found melodic style on display for the very first time. It’s easy to tell why American radio fell in love with Journey at this point in time. The music is filled with commercial astuteness, the harmonies are sublime and the whole timbre of Lights is evocative and stylish. This oozes the sort of class that would become the norm for Journey in the coming years.

6. Who’s Cryin’ Now (1981)

Who’s Cryin’ Now begins with an unvarnished piano piece from Jonathan Cain, on which Steve Perry builds his rich tone. And Ross Vallory provides some tasteful bass lines, to underline the whole feel of the song. This is the type of track that accentuates Perry’s love for great soul singers, while it also showcases the way in which Journey stood apart from all the huge selling AOR masters, and why Escape is regarded as the classic Journey album.

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5. Stone In Love (1981)

The fact this song opens up with shards of Neal Schon's guitar riffing proves that Journey were always prepared to give full weight to the heavier side of their talent. And Steve Perry also comes across with a lot more power than you might expect. This is a song where Journey never forget about the melody, but also give free rein to a rocky vibe. It also accentuates that Escape was always far more than just a collection of power ballads.

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4. Any Way You Want It (1980)

It may seem odd, but this song was actually inspired by Thin Lizzy , with whom Journey had toured a couple of years before recording the Departure album in 1980. But when you dig down and analyse the way in which the vocals are constructed, and the interchange between the instruments, then the influence becomes a lot clearer. There’s a gliding feel to the guitar parts that does feel like it is Thin Lizzy influenced, and Steve Perry adopts a storytelling style that is close to the Phil Lynott approach – and the whole feel suits Journey superbly.

3. Wheel In The Sky (1978)

Wheel In The Sky was co-written by Robert Fleischman, the band’s original choice of vocalist when they moved into a more commercial direction. However, when Fleischman didn’t work out and was replaced by Steve Perry, the song was thankfully retained. It starts with a flashing guitar groove, through which Perry cuts with a vibrant performance. In some ways, this is a basic live performance from the band, bringing a heavier dynamic to bear, but this fitted right into the whole feel of Infinity , and showed Journey could pound with the best.

2. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (1983)

After the enormous success of the Escape album, how did the band choose to open up their next album Frontiers ? With a powerhouse rocker than fitted right into an era where AOR was beginning to become a little less reliant on studio technology and celebrated talent. Of course, the rich production is evident here, but what makes the song work superbly is that way Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry and Neal Schon intertwine. There’s a buoyancy in Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) that tells of a band who are really playing off of each other’s strengths. The result is undeniably passionate.

1. Don’t Stop Believin’ (1981)

Is there anyone on the planet who does not know this song? It has got to be one of the most exposed tracks over the past two decades or so. And, because it’s so well known, it’s very easy to lose sight of just why this is so popular. Because Don’t Stop Believin’ is a peerless example of musical genius. Everything about it is simply perfect – the musicality, the vocals, the simple structure, the insistent melody… hell, this is not just Journey’s best song, it’s one of the truly landmark moments of the 80s.

Malcolm Dome had an illustrious and celebrated career which stretched back to working for  Record Mirror  magazine in the late 70s and  Metal Fury  in the early 80s before joining  Kerrang!  at its launch in 1981. His first book,  Encyclopedia Metallica , published in 1981, may have been the inspiration for the name of a certain band formed that same year. Dome is also credited with inventing the term "thrash metal" while writing about the  Anthrax  song  Metal Thrashing Mad  in 1984. With the launch of Classic Rock magazine in 1998 he became involved with that title, sister magazine Metal Hammer, and was a contributor to Prog magazine since its inception in 2009. He died in 2021 . 

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Top 10 Journey Songs

From the ashes of Santana and Frumious Bandersnatch born this beast of a band in San Francisco in 1973. Full of artistic ups and downs, Journey’s strongest times were between 78′ and 87′ when Steve Perry was the lead vocalist.

For some of us, they are the band that wrote “that song from 80’s movies(Song #3),” and for some of us, they’re the summit of our teenage years. Let’s take a look at the top 10 songs of this amazing band!

Table of Contents

1. In My Lonely Feeling / Conversations

Released in one of their earliest albums ‘Journey’, the band influenced by the psychedelic feels of their previous bands, decided to take on a memorable riff that has you bobbing your head for days. 

Here’s a link to the performance at Winterland:

2. Nickel & Dime 

Journey got you covered with this 1977 instrumental, this track is filled with energy and real rock n’ roll. A classic hit from their third album that cannot be skipped! 

Here’s a link to the instrumental: 

3. Look Into The Future

We all like to reminiscence every now and then, or ‘reflect’ for those that don’t want to admit it. With all their emotions literally felt through the song, this song is probably the best option for a get together. 

Here’s a link to the winner of the list: 

4. It’s All Too Much

It’s summer, burgers are nearly done and in the meanwhile you’re nibbling on chips whilst you’re trying to dance in a socially acceptable manner. You just can’t help but shake it with this song! 

Here’s a link to the track: 

Released in their third album, this song meets the criteria of ‘I want a song that’s perfect start to my drive’. 

Here’s a link to your new Sing-A-Long track: 

6. Sweet & Simple

I mean, the song is sweet and simple… 

Here’s a link to something that will have you in your feels: 

7. Natural Thing

Soulful & genuine, the vocals alone will have you in a trance for the whole 3 mins. 

Here’s a link to that long needed shower song: 

Compared to the likes of Hendrix, this rockin’ piece will help you move on and let go of whatever it is that made you want to listen to this in the first place. 

Here’s a link: 

9. Any Way You Want It 

This opening track of Departure is an immense, energy-filled, good vibes track. It is usually used as the last song on any Journey show. Finishing in a  high tune like that is an experience that sticks in a good way. If you haven’t heard this song in 2010 during the heavily saturated world of Glee advertisements everywhere on your screen, then you’re quite lucky. 

Here’s a link to probably one of the second most famous Journey songs:

10. Keep on Runnin’ 

You’re missing out on that Journey tribute that’s going on in town? Don’t fret, this performance will have you feeling like you’re back in 1981! 

Here’s a link to the song: 

11. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’ 

From the romantic mind of Perry, this extremely personal song about a relationship (which is believed to be inspired by true events) was the band’s first song to break into the Billboard top twenty, and It peaked at number 16.

12. Only The Young 

As you can guess from the title, this song is about the infinite promise and freedom of youth. Unfortunately, there’s a sad story about this song; this song was played to a 16-year-old fan with cystic fibrosis as part of a request from Make a Wish Foundation. Unfortunately, the fan died a day later, leaving the band with a broken heart.

13. Wheel In the Sky 

Started slowly by peaking at number 57 in the US – this song has gone on to become one of the strong Journey classics.

14. Lights 

One of the first Journey songs featuring Steve Parry, this one also started as a minor hit (#68 on charts) but became one of the signature songs.

15. Who’s Crying 

This soulful piece is Dressed in a beautiful piano riff. It is one of the most successful songs of the band. Peking at #4 in the US and becoming the highest UK charting Journey single at the time.

16. Open Arms 

This track is also one of the most successful songs of the band, earning them their highest position on the Billboard 100 (#2). Song was introduced to a wider and more contemporary audience by becoming a staple of many pop artists’ covers, including Mariah Carey.

17. Faithfully 

One of the most powerful Journey songs. Written by Jonathan Cain on the road and was completed very quickly (which the religious Cain puts down to divine intervention). 

18. Separate Ways 

The song tells the story of a couple who have broken up and gone their separate ways but will still always share a connection because of the time they spent together. As some of us know as ” that song from the 80s’ movies.”

19. Don’t Stop Believin’ 

The most iconic song of this band. This amazing song taken from 1981’s Escape is one of the most anthem-like catchy rock songs of all time. 

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Avril Lavigne Unveils Set List for 2024 Greatest Hits Tour Following Launch Event | Music News

I conic pop-rock singer Avril Lavigne has initiated a nostalgic journey for her fans with the debut of her Greatest Hits Tour in North America. The 39-year-old star sparked excitement with an electrifying performance on Wednesday evening (May 22) at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada.

The night was a showcase of Avril ‘s most memorable songs, arranged in a four-part set appealing to long-time fans and new listeners alike, featuring “Complicated,” “Girlfriend,” and “Sk8er Boi.” These are part of her upcoming Greatest Hits album, which will be released on June 21.

The tour is set to continue its course on Saturday (May 25) at the White River Amphitheatre in Auburn, Wash., with additional tour stops across cities such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Toronto, Charlotte, Nashville, Chicago, Edmonton, and others, concluding on Wednesday, September 18 in Calgary.

Joining Avril Lavigne on various dates as special guests and supporting acts are the bands All Time Low and Simple Plan , with Royal & the Serpent and Girlfriends also featuring on select dates as opening performers.

For the complete list of tour dates, venues, and ticket information, fans can visit avrillavigne.com .

Experience the set list and see the photos from the opening night below…

Greatest Hits Tour 2024 – Set List by Avril Lavigne

1. Girlfriend

2. What the Hell

3. Complicated

5. Here’s to Never Growing Up

6. My Happy Ending

7. He Wasn’t

8. Don’t Tell Me

9. When You’re Gone

10. Fake as Hell (All Time Low cover)

11. Bite Me

12. Love It When You Hate Me

13. Sk8er Boi

Encore Performance:

14. Head Above Water

15. I’m With You

In addition to her tour news, Avril has also responded to recent dating rumors and discussed her experience writing for another top-tier celebrity.

FAQs About Avril Lavigne’s 2024 Greatest Hits Tour

Q: When does Avril Lavigne’s Greatest Hits album come out?

A: The Greatest Hits album is scheduled for release on June 21.

Q: Will there be special guests on the tour?

A: Yes, All Time Low and Simple Plan will be joining on select dates, along with Royal & the Serpent and Girlfriends on certain occasions.

Q: Are there international tour dates?

A: Currently, only the North American leg of the tour has been announced. Please check her official website for any updates on international dates.

Q: Where can I find tickets and venue information for the tour?

A: You can find all of this information on Avril Lavigne’s official website at avrillavigne.com .

Q: How can I see photos from the opening night?

A: Photos from the event are typically shared by Avril’s social media accounts, fan sites, or concertgoers. Keep an eye on her official channels for updates.

Avril Lavigne embarks on a memorable journey down memory lane with her 2024 Greatest Hits Tour, promising fans an immersive experience into her storied career. With a set list that encapsulates her greatest musical milestones and the inclusion of select guest performers, this tour is shaping up to be an exciting homage to the musician’s enduring legacy. For those eager to relive the anthems of their youth or discover the hits that defined a generation, Avril’s tour is an event not to be missed!

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They/Them, LatinX, Rigged: The history behind three words

Words are never just words. They carry context and controversy; they can signal identity or sow discord. This week, TED speakers explore the history and politics of our ever-evolving language.

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They/Them and the evolution of English

by  Manoush Zomorodi ,  Rachel Faulkner White ,  Sanaz Meshkinpour

TRH: Anne Curzan

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The debate over "LatinX" and how words get adopted — or not

by  Manoush Zomorodi ,  James Delahoussaye ,  Sanaz Meshkinpour

TRH: John McWhorter

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Rigged: What can go wrong when a word becomes linked with a political identity

by  Manoush Zomorodi ,  Harsha Nahata ,  Sanaz Meshkinpour

TRH: Dannagal Young

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The humble beginning of the word "president"

by  Manoush Zomorodi ,  Fiona Geiran ,  Sanaz Meshkinpour

TRH: Mark Forsyth

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10 Neo J-Pop Artists Breaking The Mold In 2024: Fujii Kaze, Kenshi Yonezu & Others

Japan’s domestic pop market has incredible depth and growing Western interest. From Vocaloid acts to anime-centric productions and a plethora of genre-bending releases, the country's musicians and solo artists are breaking ground and making noise.

At this year’s Coachella , Japan’s music industry made a statement: out with the old, in with the new. Where previous years hosted legacy acts like Utada Hikaru and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, up-and-coming hitmakers YOASOBI and cult favorites Atarashii Gakkou! played to sizable crowds in 2024. They represent just the tip of the iceberg for Japanese musicians touring stateside: J-R&B star Fujii Kaze will tour the country this month, and numerous acts have seen exposure abroad thanks to anime soundtrack work and streaming playlists such as Spotify’s Gatcha Pop .

Anime, by far the country’s biggest cultural export, is a major factor in Japan’s music industry, with songs composed for animated films, TV, and streaming projects — and to a lesser extent video games — making up a growing number of the country’s most dominant pop hits. "Anison," or anime songs, have become extremely prestigious commissions for the country’s pop musicians, especially for younger artists who have seen anime gain traction both in Japan and internationally. 

That younger generation is now taking control of the charts, and making inroads into international markets by leaning into what makes their music and culture unique. For musicians like Kenshi Yonezu, vocal synthesizer software Vocaloid allowed them to develop their own musical voice on their own terms. The most famous Vocaloid artist, Hatsune Miku, also played Coachella this year as a video-projected anime avatar. There’s also remarkable freedom to play with genre in J-pop. Acts freely swap between sounds —from alternative rock to funky city pop, or R&B to electro-pop — in the span of a few songs. 

These factors have made Japan’s domestic pop market one of the most interesting to watch in the world. It’s gotten to the point where top English-language artists aren’t seeing the success they used to in the country, largely because the Japanese public has shifted its attention toward Korean and domestic artists. For Westerners, Japan can seem like another world, and this is especially true for its music scene. 

To bridge the gap, GRAMMY.com has created a primer to 10 of Japan’s most interesting new acts. Who knows, you might just see them stateside soon. 

Japan isn’t exactly a happy country. Social pressure is high , the economy has been stagnant for years even before its current monetary crisis and its brutal work culture is not exactly the envy of the world. Young people often feel as though they have nothing to look forward to but misery, so when someone comes along and says it’s okay to tell the adults in your life to f— off, it resonates.

This is essentially how 22-year-old singer Ado (born 2002) became the voice of Gen Z. Late in 2020 amid the stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic, she burst onto the J-pop scene with "Useewa," a rock-centric track composed by Vocaloid producer Syudou whose title translates, roughly, to "Shut the f— up." Detailing the angst of having to grin and bear the conformity of adulthood and the satisfaction of rejecting it, the song clearly struck a chord with young people in Japan. The song’s brash lyrics also sparked a moral panic from parents and the media over its anti-conformist message.

Ado’s charismatic, fiery vocal delivery, coupled with a nasty anime visual , really sells the whole package, making it a rage-filled counterpart to YOASOBI’s similarly disaffected "Yoru ni Kakeru." 

"Usseewa" topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100, the Oricon Digital Singles and Streaming charts, and the Spotify Viral 50 Japan. The video reached 100 million views on YouTube within 150 days of release. Ado has since earned more hits, furthering her wild persona with the even louder and wilder "Show." She also earned a starring role as a singer in One Piece Film: Red , the most recent theatrical installment of the biggest manga franchise in the world. 

Atarashii Gakko! 

There’s a saying in Japan about the risks of refusing to conform to society’s expectations: "The nail that sticks out gets hammered down." When it comes to finding success on the international music market, however, the opposite seems to be true. The world loves Japan when it’s at its zaniest and most distinctive, and artists that lean into this are often able to build a following abroad.

Case in point: A rapping girl group wearing vintage-inspired sailor-suit school uniforms called Atarashii Gakko! (translation: New School). The group just played Coachella and, prior, performed on "Jimmy Kimmel Live." To be sure, a lot of the foursome’s appeal is in the visual department. The group’s wild, Beastie Boys -esque video for "Tokyo Calling" pairs their sukeban girl gang-style outfits with a plethora of retro visual references: kaiju films like Godzilla , Super Sentai , even Bollywood-style dance. Musically, they’re just as mixed up, having taken on ‘80s city pop in " Otonablue " as well as adding to Japan’s legacy of unique hip-hop on " NAI NAI NAI ." 

The group’s ethos since forming in 2015 has been to shine a new path for Japan’s youth by embracing individuality and nonconformity, and it’s paid dividends so far. Their new album, AG! Calling , is set for release June 7.

Creepy Nuts

There’s a lot of bizarre, potentially conflicting elements in Creepy Nuts’ hit song "Bling-Bang-Bang-Born." There’s the sound-effect-bubble title, the anarchic rapping of vocalist R-Shitei, and producer DJ Matsunaga’s use of a Jersey Club beat (a trend with forward-thinking East Asian pop acts). There’s also the fact that it was composed for an anime about… wizards with muscles ? 

In any case, the theme song for the TV anime "Mashle: Magic and Muscles" has pulled some chart magic of its own, topping the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for eight weeks straight earlier this year, largely thanks to the viral "BBBB dance" challenge. The duo have also taken the song worldwide, reaching No. 8 on Billboard U.S.’s Global 200 and performing the song on Global Spin . If you want to find the biggest J-Pop hit of this exact moment, look no further. 

Raised in small-town Okayama prefecture in the western reaches of Japan, Fujii Kaze is being positioned as the next big artist to emerge from the country. He toured Asia in 2023 and will come to America this May; he also launched the Japanese version of Tiny Desk Concerts earlier this year. He’s also been working with international talent, such as Kendrick Lamar and 21 Savage producer DJ Dahi on the piano-driven hip-hop track " Workin’ Hard ."

The video for "Matsuri," in which Fujii (the artist lists his surname first) traipses around a Japanese garden and parties with foreigners at a traditional mansion, feels almost like a tourist advertisement for the country, projecting an image of refined, effortless Japanese cool. Recent song " Hana ," produced by Charli XCX and Utada Hikaru collaborator A. G. Cook, feels even more like a play for the international market with a ‘70s California soft rock backing track and a visual that puts Fujii on a journey through the desert.

Herein lies the secret to Fujii Kaze’s appeal: he’s hot and cool at the same time. His success is predicated not just on good looks and buttery croon, but on a smooth, easygoing persona that feels native and international at the same time. "Matsuri," with its chill yet glamorous R&B production and can’t-be-bothered lyrics ("there’s no reason to suffer / no need to be disappointed / I really couldn’t care less") exemplifies his laid-back mentality. He’s also, notably, shunned the anime market, preferring to put his songs in basketball promos and telecoms commercials – anime is cool enough for Megan Thee Stallion but not for Fujii, it seems. 

Hitsujibungaku

Just as grunge reignited America’s love of rock music in the ‘90s, Japan also embraced guitar-oriented, pop-rock in the same decade thanks to bands like B’z, Number Girl, Southern All-Stars, Asian Kung-Fu Generation, and Visual Kei groups like L’Arc-en-Ciel and X Japan. As the U.S. began to embrace hip-hop and dance-pop in the 2000s, rock and metal persisted in the Japanese mainstream. New bands continue to perform at "live house" venues in hip areas like Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa neighborhood, while groups playing niche styles like math rock, shoegaze, and metalcore have found support. CHAI, tricot, Alexandros, Otoboke Beaver, and Official Hige Dandism are just a few bands that have emerged from this milieu in recent years to success at home and abroad.

Tokyo-based trio Hitsujibungaku offers a good starting point of where Japan’s rock scene is going. The majority-female group found success on the anime song circuit last year, delivering the end credits track for mega-popular TV anime "Jujutsu Kaisen." "More than words" which became the lead single for their recent album 12 hugs like butterflies , immediately stuck out for its shuffling, nostalgic melody, and evocative, fuzzy layering of guitar tone influenced by shoegaze. 

Kenshi Yonezu

More than most mega-successful J-pop artists, Kenshi Yonezu owes his success to the Vocaloid and internet music communities in which he forged his artistry. Raised in rural Tokushima, he began his career as a teenager in the late 2000s, uploading music to the video site Nico Nico Douga under the name Hachi, and soon found his most successful tracks were the ones that used Vocaloids like Hatsune Miku. Like many artists in the digital age, Yonezu’s early work was entirely DIY, as thanks to Vocaloid he was able to produce, write, and even design artwork for his music all on his own.

Eventually, Yonezu signed to a major label and began to split time between his Vocaloid tracks as Hachi and music made under his own name. His album Bootleg won Album Of THe Year at the Japan Record Awards in 2018, and he became known for tender, uptempo ballads like " Uchiage Hanabi " and " Lemon " (the latter of which still reigns as the most-viewed video by a Japanese musician on YouTube with over 800 million views). 

Two high profile anime commissions have driven Yonezu’s star beyond Japan. In 2022, he produced the opening theme for the highly-anticipated adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s acclaimed manga Chainsaw Man . "Kick Back" departed from Yonezu’s biggest hits by leaning into the show’s action premise with drum and bass beats and an aggressive guitar melody. Buoyed by the anime’s success, "Kick Back" topped the Oricon and Billboard Japan singles charts and even charted in the U.K., Canada, and the U.S., where it became the first Japanese-language song to be certified gold by the RIAA. 

Then in 2023, he produced and sang " Spinning Globe ," the end credits theme for Hayao Miyazaki’s first film in a decade, The Boy and the Heron . It was the first time the anime auteur, who usually uses older pop music or score from usual composer Joe Hisaishi, had chosen a contemporary pop artist to write for him. 

King Gnu aren’t afraid to mix it up. They gained acclaim in Japan by pursuing a pop rock sound that’s one part city pop, one part hip-hop. Tracks like " Hakujutsu " and " Kasa " pair sick riffs and boogie basslines with turntable scratching and delicate, yet powerful vocals from Daiki Tsuneta and Satoru Iguchi.

Last year they scored a major hit with "Specialz," which was used as an opening theme for popular anime "Jujutsu Kaisen." Setting the mood for the show’s bleak second season with metallic techno drums and brawny guitar riffs, the menacing song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and currently has over 166 million Spotify streams. Tsuneta also leads the collective millennium parade, who lean toward electronic music and scored a hit with "U," from the Mamoru Hosoda musical anime BELLE . 

Conceptual projects are much more common in the Japanese pop landscape than one might expect. Case in point: MAISONdes. While not a band or a collective, MAISONdes is an imaginary apartment building where lonely hearts find solace in song. The virtual building is accessible through a website , and each song produced for the project is assigned a room number and created by a randomly-paired team of producers and vocalists that changes with each track. Participants have included chart star Aimer and VTubers such as KAF and Hoshimachi Suisei. 

Too complicated? Too weird? At least the music is good, focused on high-energy electro pop reminiscent of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, idol pop, and the Vocaloid, anisong, and netlabel acts of recent decades. As such, the most high-profile MAISONdes tracks have been those produced for anime and promotional campaigns. They’ve done all the opening and ending themes for the recent TV anime reboot of classic comedy manga "Urusei Yatsura," and their most recent track, "Popcorn" was a collab with Sanrio celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty, one of the original kawaii culture icons. The hyperactive song gained a million views on YouTube within three days of being posted. 

City pop — the ‘70s and ‘80s musical movement that blended American funk and AOR with disco and synthpop — looms large in the J-pop landscape. Although its revival has somewhat peaked following the pandemic, that hasn’t stopped guys like Vaundy from channeling the sound into their own music.

His breakout hit " Tokyo Flash " paired the grooves of the city pop era with a more down-to-earth arrangement with simpler production. Further attempts to modernize the sound have also found success: " Todome no Ichigeki ," written for the popular anime "Spy x Family," featured a grand, orchestral instrumental and a guest verse from rapper Cory Wong . With romantic lyrics reminiscent of City Pop king Tatsuro Yamashita, it’s a true return to the retro style. 

Of course, like most J-pop musicians, Vaundy isn’t a stylistic purist. He’s also applied his confident vocal style to several brisk rock tracks, resulting in chart success. His heavy metal jam for the Chainsaw Man TV anime soundtrack, " CHAINSAW BLOOD ," peaked at 13 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100, while the poppier " Kaijuu no Hana Uta " went to No. 2 after he performed the song on the "2022 Kohaku Uta Gassen" New Year’s Eve show. 

Inarguably the focal point of contemporary J-pop, no other act has defined the current era in Japan more than YOASOBI. The duo of Ayase and Ikura burst onto the scene in 2019 with the song "Yoru ni Kakeru," based on a short story posted on the site Monogatary. Pairing an upbeat instrumental with bleak, literary lyrics about death and suicide, it’s the most unlikely of pop hits. Released in late 2019, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began to grip Japan a few months before the rest of the world. "Yoru ni Kakeru" became a massive, award-winning smash. B illboard Japan named it the first song in its chart history to pass 1 billion streams , and Oricon named it the most-streamed song of the Reiwa era just last month. 

Read more: From Tokyo To Coachella: YOASOBI's Journey To Validate J-Pop And Vocaloid As Art Forms

Since then the band have become major hitmakers and fixtures of the anison production line, writing theme tracks for hit anime like "Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury" and "Frieren: Journey’s End." They scored another era-defining hit with " Idol ," their opening song for the controversial 2023 showbiz satire "Oshi no Ko." Responding to the anime’s twisted tale of a mysterious J-pop idol with dark secrets, the duo paired a bombastic instrumental with lyrics that perfectly capture the cardinal rule of stardom: tell all and reveal nothing. 

The song became such a cultural phenomenon in Japan that YOASOBI performed it at last year’s "Kohaku Uta Gassen" New Year’s TV special flanked by dozens of J-Pop and K-Pop idols, including members of NewJeans, LE SSERAFIM , and Nogizaka46. 

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Photo: Netflix

"Bridgerton" Composer Kris Bowers & Vitamin String Quartet Continue To Make Classical Music Pop For Season 3

The Netflix show returns for its third season on May 16. Composer Kris Bowers, alongside the Vitamin String Quartet and other artists, masterfully reimagines modern pop with a classical twist, including a Taylor Swift hit.

No one is arguing that “Bridgerton” is realistic or even particularly historically accurate — in fact, leaning into anachronisms is the point. Entering its third season, which premieres on May 16, the pulpy Netflix show based on a series of romance novels by Julia Quinn — often classified as “bodice rippers” — mixes modern life ideas with Regency-era social rules.

From Lady Whistledown's tantalizing gossip columns to the complex romances of the Bridgerton siblings, the series grips viewers with its blend of historical drama and contemporary flair. One key note in that chord is classical music. Instead of using current tracks like some historical-contemporary-hybrids (most famously “A Knight’s Tale" in 2001), “Bridgerton” has mastered the art of the classical cover. 

Paired with original compositions by Kris Bowers , an Oscar winner and GRAMMY nominee — including one for Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media for "Bridgerton" — the tone of the show is that of a heightened, classic world. Bowers, along with music supervisor Justin Kamps collaborates with the Vitamin String Quartet and other artists to create a full circle sonic landscape. They make the classical music in “Bridgerton” pop by re-recording, rearranging, and reimagining contemporary pop songs as classic pieces. 

Over three seasons, as well as with the spin off, “Queen Charlotte,” the team has included a mix of the newest songs as well as nostalgic favorites. This season features GAYLE ’s “abcdefu,” which was released in 2022 as well as a cover of Pitbull , Ne-Yo , and Afrojack ’s “Give Me Everything,” which was released in 2011, which can appease the full gamut of millennial and Gen Z viewers.  

Regency traditions 

The Regency period in which the show is based, spanned from 1811 to 1820, and was known as an era of elegance and refinement in British history.  In the first chunk of the 1800s, pop music included pieces by Beethoven, Liszt, Haydn, and Mendlesson (famous for the “Wedding March”). Waltzes were all the rage, and this “new” music was considered much more emotional and passionate than previous offerings. The romance of being swept away in a dance increased the thrill, and string quartets were highly popular. 

As seen throughout the series (and much like today), society placed a significant emphasis on social gatherings and music played a central role in these events. Balls, soirées, and intimate musical evenings were common, the perfect backdrop for orchestrating romance. 

In “Bridgerton," the show's modern portrayal of the Regency period occasionally features or references music from the time period, such as Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons,” which was written a century before the events in the show but was and is still a popular piece of classical music. The show frequently uses arrangements of classical songs in a slightly modern way, but most often, it underscores scenes with either classically arranged covers of pop songs or original music by Bowers. 

Contemporary music covers

Choosing between a cover or original music is a nuanced decision for the music team. The music team considers “whether or not, there's something that can, lyrically, even though we don't hear lyrics, speak to a moment really well,” said Bowers. Absent a cover by an outside band, Bowers arranges pop hits to suit the tone of the scene. He said, “when you're saying something with a song, you're making commentary on what's happening.” 

When they do outsource tracks, more often than not, these covers come from Los Angeles-based Vitamin String Quartet. VSQ is the new Mendlesson in that they have been the predominant wedding-march artist for nearly a decade, known for producing string renditions of highly eclectic mix of artists including Cardi B , Lana Del Rey , Björk , and Sigur Rós . 

They contributed four covers in season one, including Billie Elish 's “bad guy” and Ariana Grande 's “Thank U, Next,” about which Leo Flynn, VSQ Brand Manager at CMH Label Group said, “Talk about a great track changing the temperature of a room.” In season two, VSQ’s cover of Robyn 's “Dancing on My Own” played under a dance scene. 

When we spoke to James Curtiss, Director of A&R at CMH, the song placements for season three were still a mystery. Curtiss shared, “When we finished that Taylor [Swift] record, we sent it right over to the people at ‘Bridgerton.’” 

[ Spoiler alert: ] Since then, we have learned Swift's “Snow on the Beach” will be featured in season three. This isn't the first time Swift's music has been featured in the show: Duomo’s cover of “Wildest Dreams” played under the honeymoon scenes in season one. 

Composer Bowers added his favorite cover of the season is in episode eight, the finale, but what title that is will be a surprise. The surprise of an “unexpected cover” as Bowers calls it is that when you “hear a song that you know, and have this strong indelible connection with it that is represented in this style that you typically don't feel like is for you. People get excited by having this music that they really love be elevated to this other level.” He said the familiarity makes “you feel connected to this time period, these characters, and these people in a different way.” 

Flynn said, “There’s something about the past that’s inherently romantic,” and the use of VSQ songs “unites something from the past with what’s going on now.” Because classical music “feels very idealized and formal,” he said, “there’s all this history and mystique built into it.” 

Flynn also mentioned that “Bridgerton” fuses past and present on a “major storytelling scale” between the historically-inspired stories themselves, the “visual feast” of the show, and the music. Curtiss added that the “romantic nature of the string quartet” juxtaposed with pop songs helps viewers tie the feeling of going to a bar or club to the experience of hearing “the popular bangers of the day,” as he called Beethoven et al., at a ball in the Regency era. 

Original compositions

When the music needs to set a specific tone without taking the audience out of the action to try and name that tune, “Bridgerton” often uses original compositions by Bowers. Bowers said, “Looking at pop music for those things like rhythm and tempo and all that stuff also helps in moments where we want to have the score feel a little bit more modern and not as traditional.” He continued, “I’ll put something in the violas and the celli that have this kind of guitar and bass feeling to them even though we’re looking at it orchestrationally from a classical perspective.” He explained that “borrowing the rhythms or the way that parts interlock from pop music” makes it feel like a modern classical sound. 

Each character and couple has their own theme. Bowers explained that it was enjoyable to create themes that could fit both heartbreaking and celebratory moments. “The melodies are still the same even if the harmonic tone is changed,” he said.

Instrumental Pop In Visual Media

The “Bridgerton” style of using instrumentalized versions of pop songs is not unique. Famously, “Promising Young Woman” used a haunting version of Britney Spears ’ “Toxic,” adapted by Anthony Willis, and “Westworld’s” Ramin Djawadi used adaptations of Radiohead among others. “Wednesday” featured a stirring string version of the Rolling Stones ’ “Paint it Black.” The popularity of Vitamin String Quartet and other classical cover bands has not waned and, if anything, is becoming more of a mainstream staple.

As season three approaches, the unveiling of the time-spanning, romantic soundtrack is highly anticipated. Four episodes air May 16 and the second half of the season airs June 13, with original compositions by Kris Bowers and additional music by various artists, including Vitamin String Quartet, who will be taking over Pandora’s Classical Goes Pop in anticipation of their fall, “Bridgerton”-music-filled tour. 

Overall, to find the tone of the whole series, Bowers said, “Season three actually has a lot more lightness to it. (Showrunners) Shonda (Rhimes) and Jess (Brownell) really want to have a lot of fun this season so there's a little bit more of a playful, youthful quality to the music.” Whatever tunes make it into the season, they are sure to be a feast for the ears. 

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Photo: Courtesy Camila Cabello & Lil Nas X

New Music Friday: Listen to Songs From Megan Thee Stallion, Camila Cabello & Lil Nas X, BTS' RM & More

May 10 is quite the stacked day of new music across all genres — from Post Malone & Morgan Wallen's country collab, to Stray Kids' team-up with Charlie Puth, to The Chainsmokers and Kings of Leon. Check out some fresh releases to enjoy this weekend here.

As the summer quickly approaches, artists from every genre continue to unveil new music for warmer weather. Friday May 10 is particularly packed with anticipated and surprise releases from both emerging talents and established names.

The new albums alone prove just that: pop songsmith Alec Benjamin 's 12 Notes , folk-rock band Judah & the Lion 's The Process , regional Mexican stars Grupo Frontera's Jugando a Que No Pasa Nada , and GRAMMY-winning R&B singer Andra Day 's Cassandra , to name a few.

Meanwhile, a big, cool glass of major rap releases is here to help wash down the piping hot Kendrick and Drake beef served up over the last week. Full album releases debuted from Gunna , Chief Keef , and Ghostface Killah — the latter featuring guest spots from Nas , Kanye West , Raekwon , Method Man and more. Hottie Megan Thee Stallion 's powerful new single, "BOA", sets the stage for her Hot Girl Summer tour which officially starts on May 14. New songs from Ice Spice , Kodak Black , NLE Choppa , Coi Leray , G-Eazy , Yung Gravy , Ski Mask the Slump God set the playlist for a weekend full of slappers.

There's tons of collaborations, too, including the much-teased pairing of Post Malone and Morgan Wallen with "I Had Some Help," a track that showcases Malone's furtherance into country in a catchy, reflective anthem. But country music lovers also have more to enjoy this weekend: Orville Peck 's duets project, Stampede Vol.1 , features the likes of Willie Nelson and Elton John ," while Scotty McCreery's Rise & Fall and Avery Anna's single "Blonde" fill the fuel tank for a rodeo-ready summer. 

BTS 's RM delivers another solo track "Come Back to Me" and Stray Kids dropped a new collaboration with Charlie Puth , coming fresh off the K-pop group's appearance at the Met Gala earlier this week. And the electronic and rock scenes are not left behind, with A.G. Cook exploring a new twist on Britpop and Sebastian Bach's release of Child Within The Man .

Dive into today's releases from Megan Thee Stallion, The Chainsmokers , RM, Stray Kids with Charlie Puth , Camila Cabello with Lil Nas X , Post Malone and Morgan Wallen below. 

Megan Thee Stallion, "BOA"

Megan Thee Stallion's new single "BOA" continues to play up the themes of empowerment and self-realization that define her current musical phase and comes just days ahead of her Hot Girl Summer Tour starting on May 14. The song's cover art features Megan with a striking snake, a recurring symbol of rebirth that has been significant in her recent work, appearing in tracks like the Billboard Hot 100 hit "Hiss" and the 2023 song "Cobra." 

"BOA" is a continuation of Megan's snake-themed narrative, but serves as a saccharine homage to her favorite late-'90s and early 2000s anime and video game classics. The music video features references to Scott Pilgrim, One Piece, Dance Dance Revolution, and iconic 3D fighting games like Mortal Kombat, complete with visuals and Gantz-inspired outfits.

Speaking to Women's Health about her upcoming summer album, Megan discussed the personal growth and renewal she has experienced, inspiring this new era of music. "I was inspired to create this album about rebirth because I feel I am becoming a new person physically and mentally," she shared.

Camila Cabello & Lil Nas X, "HE KNOWS"

Camila Cabello teams up with Lil Nas X for the tantalizing new song "He Knows," delivering a radio-friendly track that's as catchy as it is lustful. The new music mirrors the infectious energy of their recent appearance at FKA Twigs' Met Gala afterparty, where they both were seen dancing the night away behind the DJ booth. 

"He Knows" serves as a precursor to Cabello's highly anticipated fourth solo album, C,XOXO , — set to drop on June 28 — and teases a glimpse of Cabello's evolving artistic direction. The single follows on the heels of her recent hit "I LUV IT" featuring Playboi Carti, part of the  reimagining of her sound and artistic brand.

RM, "Come Back To Me"

BTS member RM has released a new single, "Come Back To Me," accompanied by a music video. The relaxed track gives fans a taste of his upcoming second solo album, Right Place, Wrong Person , set to release on May 24. 

In the song, RM explores themes of right and wrong, capturing the complex emotions of wanting to explore new avenues while wishing to stay comfortable in the present. "Come Back To Me" features contributions from OHHYUK of the South Korean band HYUKOH, and Kuo of the Taiwanese band Sunset Rollercoaster. Additional credits include JNKYRD and San Yawn from Balming Tiger. RM first performed "Come Back To Me" during a surprise appearance at BTS bandmate Suga 's concert in Seoul last summer, noting it as a favorite from his forthcoming album. 

The music video for "Come Back To Me" was written, directed, and produced by Lee Sung Jin, known for his work on the Netflix show "Beef." The video features actress Kim Minha from the Apple TV+ series "Pachinko" and faces themes of identity and self-reflection, showing RM confronting different versions of himself. Its cast includes notable Korean and American actors such as Joseph Lee, Lee Sukhyeong, and Kim A Hyun.

Post Malone & Morgan Wallen, "I Had Some Help"

Post Malone and Morgan Wallen blend their distinct musical styles in the much-anticipated release of their collaborative single "I Had Some Help." Merging Malone's versatile pop sensibilities while leaning into his country roots with Wallen's, well, help, the duet is a unique crossover that has had fans clamoring to hear more since the two first teased the song earlier this year. 

Finally premiering during Wallen's headlining performance at Stagecoach Festival on April 28, the uptempo song explores themes of mutual support and shared experiences, encapsulated by the lyric, "It ain't like I can make this kind of mess all by myself."

The collaboration has sparked significant buzz and showcases the duo's chemistry and shared knack for storytelling. This single highlights their individual talents as well as their ability to bridge genre divides, already promising to be a hit on the charts and a favorite among fans.

The Chainsmokers, No Hard Feelings

Maestros of mainstream emotion, The Chainsmokers continue to master the art of turning personal reflections into global anthems with their latest EP, No Hard Feelings . The six-song project see Alex Pall and Drew Taggart exploring the emotional highs and lows of modern relationships, weaving their signature dance beats with pop sensibilities as they have since 2015's "Roses." 

The duo's latest release serves as a soundtrack to both sun-kissed days and introspective nights. The collection includes the single "Friday," a collaboration with Haitian-American singer Fridayy, described by the duo as a direct descendant of "Roses." Other tracks, such as "Addicted," also underscore the Chainsmokers' knack for capturing the zeitgeist of contemporary love and loss.

Kings of Leon, Can We Please Have Fun

Kings of Leon return with their signature blend of rock and introspection on their ninth studio album, Can We Please Have Fun . The LP finds the band infusing their established sound with fresh, unbridled energy, reminiscent of their early days yet matured by years of experience. The album features standout tracks like "Mustang" and "Nothing To Do," which mix playful lyrics with serious musical chops, showcasing Kings of Leon's unique ability to combine rock's raw power with catchy, thoughtful songwriting.

The band is set to bring Can We Please Have Fun to life on their 2024 world tour, starting in Leeds, United Kingdom on June 20 and wrapping in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on Oct. 5. Fans can expect a high-energy series of performances that blend new tracks with beloved classics, all delivered with the Kings of Leon's legendary fervor.

Stray Kids & Charlie Puth, "Lose My Breath"

Stray Kids have teamed up with Charlie Puth for their latest release, "Lose My Breath," a track that blends K-pop dynamism with Western pop flair, written by Stray Kids' own producer team 3racha (Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han) along with Puth. The TK song details a whirlwind of emotions, describing symptoms of breathlessness and heart-palpitating moments encapsulated in the lyrics: "I lose my breath when you're walking in/ 'Cause when our eyes lock, it's like my heart stops." 

"Lose My Breath" is described as a "warm-up" for Stray Kids' forthcoming album, set for release this summer. The track further highlights the global appeal of Stray Kids ahead of their highly anticipated headlining set at Lollapalooza in August. It also continues Puth's engagement with K-pop, following his previous work with other K-pop acts including his collab with BTS' Jungkook , "Left and Right," and "Like That," a song he co-wrote for K-pop girl group BABYMONSTER . 

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Photo: Kato Shumpei

From Tokyo To Coachella: YOASOBI's Journey To Validate J-Pop And Vocaloid As Art Forms

YOASOBI, blending J-pop and Vocaloid with narrative-driven songs, is capturing a global audience through their performances at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza, marking a significant moment for Japanese music on the international stage.

For decades, Japanese music has been one of the hardest to access as a foreigner. Even with the popularization of cultural exports like anime and the emergence of streaming platforms, it is still considered a niche, and fans often have to dig deep in order to find albums , translations, or any kind of content at all.

"There weren’t many opportunities for Japanese music to go out into the world until now," says YOASOBI ’s producer and songwriter, Ayase, over a Sunday morning Zoom from Tokyo. "If we were to break into the mainstream, I think there’s a lot more work to do. Being a part of Coachella is one of them."

The duo, composed of Ayase, 30, and vocalist Ikura, 23, is gearing up for their first performance at the mighty Californian festival next weekend, plus two sold out headline shows in Los Angeles and San Francisco. In August, they are set to play at Lollapalooza in Chicago, IL. 

"Performing at festivals like Coachella was one of our goals when we put our live team together, so I believe that it will be a place for us to grow further,” says Ikura, who lived in Chicago as a kid and considers these opportunities a "full circle" moment.

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Formed in 2019, YOASOBI found overnight success with their debut single "Yoru ni Kakeru," a bright-sounding but harrowing tale that topped Billboard ’s Japan Hot 100 chart for six non-consecutive weeks. They continued to rise further, recording five EPs (three in Japanese, two in English), the opening theme to Netflix’s anime series " Beastars, " 2021’s "Kaibutsu," and their magnum opus so far: "Idol."

Released in 2023, "Idol" became a massive hit, placing No.1 at Billboard's Japan Hot 100 chart for 22 weeks and counting — an all-time record break. It was also the nineteenth best-selling song of 2023 worldwide, according to the IFPI . With these accolades, it’s easy to understand why the duo is fully booked, but what makes their music so enticing to global audiences? 

Listening to YOASOBI is like entering a rabbit hole. First, you get hypnotized by the glistening synths, bursting like fireworks, and the rock riffs taking melodies to full-speed. Then, you discover their adage is "novel into music," and all songs are based on fictional stories written by various authors. There’s also the animated music videos, each with a different style, giving their sounds another layer for interpretation. And finally, there are Ayase’s and Ikura’s (under the name Lilas Ikuta) own solo careers — treasure troves ready to be unearthed.

"I don't know, to be honest," says Ayase when asked about their growing popularity. "I guess the fact that a lot of Japanese [exports] have been prevalent around the world had to do with it. But also, maybe it's because people are experiencing this combination of music with storytelling that is interesting to them." Ikura agrees, adding that YOASOBI allows fans to "enjoy this bigger world that we are part of in a more three-dimensional way."

The experience is similar to how they create their music: mining, collecting, mixing, and transforming different threads into a new fabric. From fictional stories, Ayase transmutes his feelings into beats on his laptop with Logic Pro, then inputs melodies and lyrics through Vocaloid softwares like Hatsune Miku. Ikura listens to the Vocaloid demos, and then adds her own feelings and flair into the interpretations. For English-language tracks, they work with translator Konnie Aoki, who is "very mindful of phonetic sounds," and Ikura listens to the Japanese versions up until it’s time to record, so that she can have "the right emotions set."

It’s such a natural process for them that Ayase is surprised to know that there are still people who don’t consider Vocaloid as "real" music. “Those people probably don’t know what music is,” he says with a laugh. “Do they think that instrumental music, where there's no human singing, isn’t real music? There’s really great Vocaloid music out there, and it’s basically [voices] created through synthesizing softwares. It's very different from AI, which is auto-generated music. Vocaloid is humans creating music using these softwares. That's the only difference from a human singing a song.”

To Ikura, who maintains her burgeoning solo career in tandem with YOASOBI’s busy schedule, Vocaloid allowed her to broaden her talents. "It is my first time singing songs that somebody else wrote, so it was an opportunity to challenge myself with things that I wouldn't necessarily write, or sing in a tone or voice that I wouldn't come up with myself." She says that these experiences influence her solo works all the time, in a "synergy" that allows her to "have more colors to work with in my palette."

"I started producing music through Vocaloids,” adds Ayase. “And it truly broadened my ideas and imagination when it comes to creating music. It allows creators to come up with melodies that a human singer may not come up with. It's a fascinating culture. The possibility I feel is infinite, and it really makes the impossible possible, in a way.”

Read more: It Goes To 11: How One Piece Of Technology Makes YOASOBI's Musical Vision Come To Life

Endless possibilities are also a big allure in AI technologies, but Ayase doesn’t see this as a threat. With the right boundaries, it’s just a tool — like Vocaloid, Logic Pro, and the internet — that can be used positively. "However, as a creator myself, I really hope that creative works come out of the imagination and ideas of the human mind. In that sense, [AI] may not be 100% a positive thing for us," he shares.

But that’s something for the future. Now, YOASOBI is focusing on their very real, very tangible events ahead. "Finally, we have this opportunity where people around the world are discovering our music. So, performing at festivals like Coachella, Lollapalooza, or doing our solo shows, I think it's important that we communicate with the audiences and maximize this opportunity as much as possible," says Ikura.

And it’s not just YOASOBI getting all the attention: according to data and research company Luminate , J-pop in general is on the rise. "I’m very proud, as a Japanese person, for that situation. For us, it’s really about taking it one step at a time," says Ayase. “Our ultimate wish is to have our music or reach as many people around the world as possible, and so we will continue to work hard every day."

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Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

GRAMMY Rewind: Megan Thee Stallion Went From "Savage" To Speechless After Winning Best New Artist In 2021

Relive the moment Megan Thee Stallion won the coveted Best New Artist honor at the 2021 GRAMMYs, where she took home three golden gramophones thanks in part to her chart-topping smash "Savage."

In 2020, Megan Thee Stallion solidified herself as one of rap's most promising new stars, thanks to her hit single "Savage." Not only was it her first No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100, but the " sassy, moody, nasty " single also helped Megan win three GRAMMYs in 2021.

In this episode of GRAMMY Rewind , revisit the sentimental moment the Houston "Hottie" accepted one of those golden gramophones, for Best New Artist.

"I don't want to cry," Megan Thee Stallion said after a speechless moment at the microphone. Before starting her praises, she gave a round of applause to her fellow nominees in the category, who she called "amazing."

Along with thanking God, she also acknowledged her manager, T. Farris, for "always being with me, being by my side"; her record label, 300 Entertainment, for "always believing in me, sticking by through my craziness"; and her mother, who "always believed I could do it."

Megan Thee Stallion's "Savage" remix with Beyoncé also helped her win Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance that night — marking the first wins in the category by a female lead rapper.

Press play on the video above to watch Megan Thee Stallion's complete acceptance speech for Best New Artist at the 2021 GRAMMY Awards, and remember to check back to GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind.

Black Sounds Beautiful: How Megan Thee Stallion Turned Viral Fame Into A GRAMMY-Winning Rap Career

• 1 10 Neo J-Pop Artists Breaking The Mold In 2024: Fujii Kaze, Kenshi Yonezu & Others
• 2 "Bridgerton" Composer Kris Bowers & Vitamin String Quartet Continue To Make Classical Music Pop For Season 3
• 3 New Music Friday: Listen to Songs From Megan Thee Stallion, Camila Cabello & Lil Nas X, BTS' RM & More
• 4 From Tokyo To Coachella: YOASOBI's Journey To Validate J-Pop And Vocaloid As Art Forms
• 5 GRAMMY Rewind: Megan Thee Stallion Went From "Savage" To Speechless After Winning Best New Artist In 2021