Former Journey singer Steve Perry has denied recent rumours that he’d be reuniting with his ex-bandmates for their farewell tour, which is taking place this year.
In a recent interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, Journey keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Jonathan Cain claimed that lead guitarist Neal Schon had had conversations with Perry about a possible reunion, adding that the former vocalist didn’t rule it out.
“He didn’t say no — leave it at that,” Cain said.
However, Perry has shut down the speculation – and any burgeoning excitement – by denying Cain’s claims. Taking to social media today (20 February), Perry said the rumours are “simply not true” and put them “gently to rest.”
“I’ve been hearing these recent rumors, and I wanted to speak to you all directly,” he wrote. “While I’m always grateful for the love people still have for Journey, the rumors about me rejoining the band are simply not true, and I want to gently put them to rest.”
Perry continued, “I completely understand why people would hope for that. The music we created together means a great deal to me too. But I’m continuing to explore new creative work and really enjoy working on new music that reflects where I am today.
“Thank you for your continued support throughout the years. Your loyalty has never gone unnoticed, and I am forever humbly grateful.
“Sincerely, Steve Perry.”
Schon formed Journey in 1973, along with keyboardist Gregg Rolie and bassist Ross Valory. By 1977, the American rock band had found mainstream success following Perry’s hiring.
With Perry, Journey released a string of hits, particularly throughout the early ‘80s, including Don’t Stop Believin’, Any Way You Want It, Open Arms, Separate Ways, Faithfully, Wheel In The Sky, and many more.
Perry departed the band in 1988 and was replaced by numerous singers. Longtime vocalist Arnel Pineda joined the band in 2007 and remains with the band to this day.
The US and Canada tour, which begins on 28 February and concludes on 2 July, will see Journey comprise Pineda, Cain, Schon, keyboardist-vocalist Jason Derlatka, drummer-vocalist Deen Castronovo, and bassist Todd Jensen.
Journey toured Australia for the first – and what might be the only – time in February and March 2013 during a co-headline run with Deep Purple.
Countrytown brings you Australia’s best country music news, interviews, charts and more every week! This post was authored by Countrytown and originally published on the Countrytown website. It has been re-published with permission.
