Complete List of All Current and Former Journey Band Members

Journey Band Members

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I first fell in love with the band Journey when I was in high school and brought the band’s album Infinity when it was first released. Their record company Columbia Records at the time heavily promoted the album. It was Steve Perry’s first recording with the band and Columbia knew they had a hit on their hands. I was blown away by Steve Perry’s voice and completely floored by how great the songs were on the record. Journey became one of the biggest bands of the seventies. They helped define the term “Stadium Rock.” The band has gone through multiple lineup changes over the years.  This article takes a look at the revolving door of musicians who have come and gone as members of the band Journey.

The Orginal Journey Band Members

Neal Schon

Neal Schon is a founding member and the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Journey. His career began at a young age when, at just 15, he was recruited to join Santana, where he quickly gained attention for his incredible guitar playing. However, it was in 1973 when Schon, along with keyboardist Gregg Rolie (another former member of Santana), formed Journey that he would make his most lasting impact on the music world. As the driving force behind Journey’s signature sound, Schon’s guitar work helped define the band’s blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and, later, their shift into arena rock. His technical prowess, melodic sensibility, and memorable guitar solos became a cornerstone of Journey’s music, elevating songs like “Lights,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and “Wheel in the Sky” into timeless rock anthems.

Schon’s influence in Journey extended beyond just his guitar work. As the band evolved, he played a critical role in shaping their sound, moving them toward a more radio-friendly rock style in the late 1970s and 1980s. His collaboration with vocalist Steve Perry and keyboardist Jonathan Cain resulted in some of the band’s biggest hits, including the albums Escape and Frontiers. The combination of Schon’s soaring guitar riffs and Perry’s emotive vocals created a dynamic sound that dominated rock radio and made Journey one of the most successful bands of the 1980s. Schon’s versatility as a guitarist, capable of both intricate solos and powerfully simple riffs, allowed the band to appeal to a broad audience while maintaining their musicianship and rock credibility.

Beyond Journey, Neal Schon has maintained an impressive solo career and worked with various other artists, further showcasing his versatility as a musician. His ability to blend different genres, from jazz fusion to blues, has cemented his reputation as one of the most respected guitarists in rock. Through his work with Journey, Schon has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music, influencing countless guitarists and helping to shape the sound of classic rock for generations to come. His role as both a musician and a creative leader within Journey ensured the band’s enduring popularity and their place in the pantheon of rock legends.

Ross Valory

Ross Valory is best known as the longtime bassist for Journey, playing a pivotal role in shaping the band’s rhythm section and overall sound. Joining Journey in 1973, shortly after the band’s formation, Valory brought with him a solid musical background that included stints with the San Francisco-based psychedelic rock band Steve Miller Band. His approach to bass playing was foundational to Journey’s music, providing the steady, dynamic rhythm needed to balance Neal Schon’s soaring guitar work and later, Steve Perry’s powerful vocals. Valory’s basslines are characterized by their precision and subtle complexity, allowing the more prominent instruments to shine while maintaining the band’s groove. His work can be heard on classic albums like Infinity (1978), Escape (1981), and Frontiers (1983), all of which became essential contributions to Journey’s success.

Valory’s impact on Journey extended beyond just his musicianship. As one of the founding members, he was integral to the band’s development during its early days, helping shape the creative direction that saw them move from a more experimental, progressive rock style to the radio-friendly, arena-rock sound for which they became famous. His consistency as a bassist provided a sense of stability and continuity within the band, even as they experienced shifts in lineup and sound. His playing on iconic tracks like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Any Way You Want It” showcases his ability to balance technical skill with restraint, always serving the song without overplaying.

Ross Valory’s tenure with Journey spanned multiple decades, contributing to nearly all of the band’s most successful eras. Despite brief departures, his return in the mid-1990s helped anchor Journey’s resurgence during the reunion tours and later albums. His role was essential in ensuring that the classic sound Journey fans had come to love remained intact. Through his reliable presence in the rhythm section, Valory’s understated yet essential contributions helped shape Journey into one of the most successful rock bands of all time, influencing generations of musicians and listeners alike.

Gregg Rolie

Gregg Rolie is a legendary keyboardist and vocalist, best known for his founding roles in two iconic bands: Santana and Journey. His career began with Santana, where he played a crucial role as both a keyboardist and co-lead vocalist. Rolie’s distinctive organ work and soulful voice were central to Santana’s early success, especially on classics like “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va.” His time with Santana, particularly during their breakthrough performances at Woodstock and their early albums, helped shape the Latin-infused rock sound that defined the band. Rolie’s blend of bluesy vocals and innovative keyboard arrangements were integral to Santana’s rise to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

In 1973, after leaving Santana, Gregg Rolie co-founded Journey alongside guitarist Neal Schon, who had also been a member of Santana. As a founding member of Journey, Rolie’s contributions were instrumental in the band’s early sound, which initially leaned toward a more progressive and jazz-influenced rock style. As both a vocalist and keyboardist, Rolie helped shape the band’s first few albums, with his powerful organ playing and vocals on songs like “Feeling That Way.” His partnership with Schon was vital in developing the band’s signature blend of rock and melody, though Journey’s later shift toward a more pop-oriented direction would lead to Rolie’s departure in 1980. Nevertheless, Rolie’s influence during Journey’s formative years laid the foundation for the band’s subsequent commercial success.

Beyond Santana and Journey, Gregg Rolie has had an extensive and varied career. After leaving Journey, he continued making music both as a solo artist and through various collaborations. In 1991, he reunited with some of his Journey bandmates in the band The Storm, which saw moderate success in the early 1990s. Rolie has also been involved in Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band and has frequently toured and performed in tribute to his extensive body of work. His dual legacy in two of rock’s most enduring bands has solidified Rolie’s place as one of the genre’s most respected musicians, and his contributions to both Santana and Journey remain defining elements of his career.

George Tickner

George Tickner, born on September 8, 1946, in Syracuse, New York, is an American musician who played rhythm guitar for Journey. He was among the original members when the band was founded in 1973 but left shortly after the release of the band’s self-titled debut album in 1975. Tickner contributed to the writing of some early songs but didn’t stay with the band long enough to participate in the more commercial phases of Journey’s career. After leaving Journey, Tickner largely retired from professional music to pursue a career in medicine.

Charles “Prairie” Prince

Charles “Prairie” Prince, born on May 7, 1950, in Charlotte, North Carolina, was the original drummer for Journey when the band was formed in 1973. However, he never officially recorded with the band and left before their debut album was made. He is best known for his work with The Tubes, a San Francisco-based rock band. Though his time with Journey was short-lived, Prince has had a significant career in music, working with artists like Todd Rundgren, and Jefferson Starship, and as a session musician for various other artists.

The Next Phase and Beyond

Aynsley Dunbar

Aynsley Dunbar, born on January 10, 1946, in Liverpool, England, is a British drummer known for his work with various rock and blues bands. He joined Journey in 1974, shortly after the band’s formation, and played on the albums “Journey” (1975), “Look into the Future” (1976), and “Next” (1977). Dunbar’s jazz-influenced drumming style added a unique element to Journey’s early sound. He left the band in 1978 before the band shifted to a more mainstream, commercial sound. Apart from Journey, Dunbar has had an extensive career, playing with artists like Frank Zappa, David Bowie, and Whitesnake.

Robert Fleischman

Robert Fleischman, born on March 11, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, is an American musician who briefly served as Journey’s lead vocalist in 1977. Though he never appeared on any studio albums with Journey, he contributed to songwriting and is credited with co-writing songs like “Wheel in the Sky.” Fleischman was replaced by Steve Perry later in the same year he joined. Outside of Journey, Fleischman had a solo career and was a member of other rock bands like Vinnie Vincent Invasion.

Steve Perry

Steve Perry is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time, thanks largely to his work as the lead singer of Journey. Joining the band in 1977, Perry’s arrival marked a turning point for Journey, transforming them from a progressive rock group into a mainstream rock powerhouse. His powerful tenor voice became the centerpiece of the band’s sound, propelling them to massive success in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s. With Perry at the helm, Journey released iconic albums such as Infinity (1978), Escape (1981), and Frontiers (1983). Songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” became rock anthems, largely due to Perry’s vocal prowess and emotional delivery. His dynamic range and ability to convey both power and vulnerability in his performances became Journey’s signature.

Perry’s impact on Journey extended beyond his vocal abilities. He was also a key songwriter for the band, contributing to many of their biggest hits. His melodic sensibilities helped craft the band’s transition from a more experimental sound to the arena rock style that made them global superstars. With Perry’s voice leading the way, Journey sold millions of albums and became one of the top-selling rock bands of all time. However, the intense schedule of touring and recording took a toll on Perry, and in 1987, he stepped away from Journey. Though he rejoined the band briefly in the mid-1990s to record Trial by Fire (1996), health issues and creative differences led to his permanent departure in 1998. Even after leaving the band, Perry’s legacy within Journey remains undisputed.

Outside of Journey, Steve Perry also pursued a successful solo career. His debut solo album, Street Talk (1984), produced the hit single “Oh Sherrie,” which showcased his songwriting and vocal talents beyond the framework of Journey. Perry’s second solo album, For the Love of Strange Medicine (1994), further demonstrated his ability to craft emotionally resonant songs. While his solo output was more sporadic than his work with Journey, Perry remained a beloved figure in rock music. After a long hiatus, he made a highly anticipated return to music with his 2018 solo album Traces, which featured reflective and deeply personal songs. Though his career has had its ups and downs, Perry’s influence on rock music and his place in the pantheon of great vocalists remain secure. His work with Journey, in particular, helped define an era of rock, and his voice continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

Steve Smith

Steve Smith’s career is most famously associated with his time as the drummer for Journey, though his influence extends far beyond the band. Smith joined Journey in 1978, during the recording of their Infinity album, and quickly became an integral part of the group’s rhythm section. His jazz-inflected drumming style brought technical skill and creativity to Journey’s sound, contributing to their shift toward a more accessible, arena rock direction. Smith’s drumming is featured on some of Journey’s biggest albums, including Escape (1981) and Frontiers (1983), both of which were commercial successes. His rhythmic precision and ability to seamlessly blend power with finesse became an essential element of Journey’s music, helping to propel songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” to iconic status.

Smith’s impact on Journey cannot be overstated, as his versatility as a drummer gave the band’s music a dynamic edge. Whether it was driving rock anthems or more delicate ballads, his nuanced playing added depth and complexity to the arrangements. After leaving Journey in 1985 to focus on his passion for jazz, Smith continued to build his reputation as one of the most technically gifted and versatile drummers in the industry. He briefly returned to Journey in the mid-1990s and again in 2015, reinforcing his enduring connection with the band and its fanbase. Smith’s contributions to Journey’s legacy were recognized when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2017.

Outside of Journey, Steve Smith’s career as a jazz drummer has been highly influential. He is the bandleader of his own group, Vital Information, which he formed in 1983. With Vital Information, Smith explored his deep love for jazz, fusion, and complex rhythms, earning critical acclaim for his innovative drumming. He has also performed with an array of notable artists, including Ahmad Jamal, Stanley Clarke, and Steps Ahead, showcasing his versatility across genres. Smith’s work as an educator is also significant, as he has produced instructional videos and clinics that have inspired drummers worldwide. His ability to move fluidly between rock, jazz, and fusion has solidified his status as one of the most respected drummers in modern music.

Jonathan Cain

Jonathan Cain’s career is deeply intertwined with Journey’s rise to superstardom in the 1980s. Cain joined the band in 1980, just before the recording of their Escape album, and his impact was immediate and transformative. As the keyboardist and a key songwriter, Cain played a crucial role in shaping Journey’s sound, contributing to some of their most iconic songs. His piano riff on “Don’t Stop Believin’” became one of the most recognizable intros in rock music history. Cain also co-wrote many of Journey’s biggest hits, including “Faithfully,” “Open Arms,” and “Who’s Crying Now,” solidifying his status as a driving creative force within the band. His ability to blend melodic rock with accessible pop hooks was instrumental in Journey’s massive commercial success.

Cain’s influence extended beyond his musicianship. His songwriting partnership with lead singer Steve Perry and guitarist Neal Schon resulted in a string of hit albums, including Escape (1981), Frontiers (1983), and Raised on Radio (1986). Cain’s songwriting often drew from personal experiences, adding an emotional depth to Journey’s music, as seen in “Faithfully,” which he wrote about life on the road as a touring musician. His ballad-oriented style helped balance the band’s rock edge, allowing Journey to appeal to a broader audience. As Journey’s music reached stadium-level popularity, Cain’s contributions were central to their status as one of the defining bands of the era.

Before joining Journey, Jonathan Cain had already made a name for himself as a member of The Babys, where he played keyboards and contributed to the band’s late-70s success. After Journey, Cain pursued a solo career and released several albums, though his role in Journey remained his most prominent contribution to rock music. He has also worked extensively in Christian music, releasing faith-based albums that reflect his spiritual journey. Today, Cain continues to tour with Journey, maintaining his role as one of the band’s key creative forces. His longevity and versatility as a musician have cemented his legacy both as a hitmaker with Journey and as a talented songwriter and performer across different genres.

Randy Jackson

Randy Jackson, born on June 23, 1956, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is an American musician, best known as a judge on the television show “American Idol.” He joined Journey as a bass player for a short stint during the mid-1980s and played on the 1986 album “Raised on Radio.” Jackson was part of the band’s transition towards a more pop-oriented sound during that period. Besides Journey, he has been an in-demand session musician and has produced and performed with a wide array of artists across genres.

Steve Augeri

Steve Augeri, born on January 30, 1959, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American rock singer best known for his work as the lead vocalist for Journey from 1998 to 2006. He was brought in as a replacement for Steve Perry and featured on albums like “Arrival” (2001) and “Generations” (2005). Augeri co-wrote songs for the band but had to leave in 2006 due to vocal issues. Outside of Journey, he has been involved in other bands like Tyketto and has also embarked on a solo career.

Jeff Scott Soto

Jeff Scott Soto, born on November 4, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American singer who served as Journey’s lead vocalist for a brief period from 2006 to 2007. He stepped in following Steve Augeri’s departure due to vocal issues but was in the band for less than a year. Though his time with Journey was short-lived, he did perform live with the band during that period. Outside of Journey, Soto has a prolific career, having been a part of bands like Yngwie Malmsteen’s Rising Force and Talisman, as well as a successful solo career.

Deen Castronovo

Deen Castronovo, born on August 17, 1964, in Westminster, California, is an American drummer and vocalist. He joined Journey in 1998, replacing Steve Smith, and contributed to albums like “Arrival” (2001), “Generations” (2005), and “Eclipse” (2011). Besides playing drums, Castronovo also performed backing and some lead vocals during his time with the band. He left Journey in 2015 amidst personal issues. Beyond Journey, he has played with bands like Bad English and Hardline and is known for his work in various other musical projects.

Narada Michael Walden

Narada Michael Walden, born on April 23, 1952, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is an American musician, producer, and songwriter. He joined Journey as a drummer in 2020, replacing Steve Smith. Known for his diverse skill set across genres, Walden has a rich career outside of his time with Journey. He’s a multi-Grammy Award-winning producer and has worked with a myriad of artists including Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Aretha Franklin.

Arnel Pineda

Arnel Pineda, born on September 5, 1967, in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines, is a Filipino singer and songwriter. He became the lead vocalist for Journey in 2007, discovered by Neal Schon through YouTube videos of Pineda covering Journey songs. He made his studio debut with the band on the 2008 album “Revelation” and has remained with the band since. Outside of Journey, Pineda had been a part of several bands in the Philippines and has a solo career as well.

Jason Derlatka

Jason Derlatka, born on September 8, 1972, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is an American keyboardist, vocalist, and composer. He joined Journey in 2020 as a touring keyboardist and background vocalist. Though he hasn’t been featured on any studio albums with the band yet, he brings a wide range of musical experience to Journey. Derlatka has worked extensively in television, composing music for series like “House” and “Parenthood.”

Todd Jensen

Todd Jensen, born on October 19, 1965, in Portland, Oregon, is an American bassist. Though he never officially recorded with Journey, Jensen was involved as a touring member following Ross Valory’s departure in 2020. Known for his versatility, he has played with various artists and bands spanning multiple genres, including David Lee Roth, Ozzy Osbourne, and Alice Cooper.

Updated September 24, 2024

Complete List Of All Journey Current And Former Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

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