journey band earnings

VAN HALEN, RUSH, JOURNEY Make BILLBOARD's 'Music's Top 40 Money Makers' List

VAN HALEN , RUSH and JOURNEY have made Billboard magazine's "Music's Top 40 Money Makers" list , compiled by measuring touring revenue, music sales, publishing royalties and other streaming and on-demand figures.

VAN HALEN hit #4 with $20.2 million, thanks to a tour gross of $54 million from just 46 shows. The band's first album with singer David Lee Roth since "1984" , "A Different Kind Of Truth" , registered 620,000 in physical album sales in 2012 and more than 213,000 in digital sales.

"When it comes to making the biggest score, the most money always comes from high-paying live performances," Billboard 's editorial analyst Glenn Peoples wrote in explaining the list.

"Ironically, the most popular touring artists are usually well past their peaks on the album sales charts."

Billboard said streaming music online to paying customers has not caught on with older generations and was small in percentage terms but growing. "Yet even in the coming years, as streaming services become a more important revenue source, possibly replacing digital downloads and CD sales, one thing is unlikely to change: concerts will have the greatest influence of top earners' overall earnings," said Peoples .

#4 - VAN HALEN $20,184,709.91

#22 - TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA $9,959,362.28

#28 - RUSH $8,719,834.30

#35 - JOURNEY $6,983,106.58

See the entire list at this location .

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Steve Perry Is Still Making Millions From Journey, Even Though He Quit The Band In 1998

Steve Perry continues to make money from his association with Journey even though he left the band years ago.
Perry received a lucrative sendoff from Journey when he left, earning a percentage of the net income from post-Perry albums and live appearances.
Steve Perry's net worth is estimated to be $70 million, although it is unclear exactly how he earned that money.

Steve Perry, charismatic former frontman for Journey, had a stellar career with that band from 1977 to 1998. His vocal talent and down-to-earth stage persona made him and their hits such as "Open Arms" and "Separate Ways" extremely popular. Rolling Stone ranked Perry 76th among its greatest 100 singers ever. He won more kudos from a former bandmate. According to Biography , "Other than Robert Plant, there's no singer in rock that even came close to Steve Perry ," commented Randy Jackson, previously an American Idol judge and Journey bassist ( he's also been very busy since both of those gigs ).

Perry made his exit from Journey long ago, allegedly because he was "feeling burnt out." What many fans of his may not realize, however, is that he continues to make money — lots of it, reportedly — from his association with the band even though he left it years ago. What arrangement does Perry have from his long and successful connection with Journey that still adds to his net worth?

Related: The Real Reason Howard Stern And Journey's Steve Perry Absolutely Hate Each Other

Steve Perry Helped Make Journey Famous With Hits Like "Don't Stop Believin'"

Born on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California, Perry developed an interest in music and singing as a teenager. He headed for Los Angeles at 18, determined to make his reputation as a vocalist .

Perry didn't hit it big right away, though. He got in at the ground level of the music industry, singing for television ads and radio and latching onto some little-known bands. It was a real, albeit very modest, start. Nevertheless, Perry began to despair that his dream of big-time rock stardom would ever materialize.

His mother did not give up on him, however. She urged Perry to hang in there a little longer. Her faith in him proved justified when Journey's manager at the time invited him to audition for the band's lead singer role. As music history proved, he and Journey were a terrific fit.

They reeled off a string of hits that seemed to define the era; "Oh Sherrie," "Send Her My Love," "Who's Crying Now," and "Any Way You Want It." But one tune became Journey's classic anthem- "Don't Stop Believin'." Its toe-tapping rhythm and upbeat message have made it a perennial fan favorite.

It had humble beginnings. According to New York Magazine via Songfacts , Perry reportedly said that he came up with the lyrics while he was sleepless in a hotel room in Detroit one night. The song gained traction, eventually turning up in the film Monster (2003), in a slew of TV shows like South Park and King of the Hill , and perhaps most memorably, in the last episode of The Sopranos in 2007.

Related: 10 Celebs Reveal Their Favorite Rock Bands

Steve Perry Left Journey In 1998, But He Didn't Leave Empty-Handed

When Perry left the band, he sounded downcast, relating that he felt "wrung out" and really empty of music post-Journey , something that scared him. But Perry's lucrative sendoff from Journey may have eased his angst.

In 2020, an agreement between Perry and two members of Journey, Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon, was reported by UltimateClassicRock.com. The three rockers apparently "licensed the Journey mark," per a 1986 deal between them. When Perry decided to leave the band, he was let out of that agreement at a price that made him far richer.

According to the outlet, Perry received "a sum total of 50 percent of the net income due Schon or Cain, whichever is higher, from the first two post-Perry Journey albums." He was reportedly also slated to rake in 25 percent of the income from Journey's third album sans Perry, and 12.5 percent of the income from each Journey LP thereafter.

Related: Lindsey Buckingham Claimed This Fleetwood Mac Album Was A Disaster To Make

Perry also allegedly nabbed a piece of the money from Journey's live appearances, too, earning half the net income from the first two tours post-split, with a fraction of subsequent tours, too (a tenth tour, for example, would still net Perry 12.5 percent, per various sources.

Arrangements were reportedly put in place to pay Perry a slice of the "net income" from Journey's tours, which encompassed "tour merchandise, tour sponsorship income and any tour support payments." Altogether, it totaled an enviable payday for the legendary singer.

Steve Perry Is Worth $70 Million Today, And Makes Multiple Millions Per Year

Steve Perry's whopping net worth has been gauged at $70 million , according to Celebrity Net Worth. It's not clear exactly when or how he made that money. Fans can assume that most of his wealth stems from his time with Journey, although exactly how much is uncertain.

His numerous money-making endeavors reportedly include acting, investments, endorsements, licensing, and merchandise sales.

He has made a handful of solo records and clearly seems not to have forsaken music, even though his glory days fronting Journey are long past. What Perry does next musically is anyone's guess, but he told Forbes in 2018, "The only compass I have is the one in my chest and that's the one I listen to." Hopefully it will lead Steve Perry to produce more phenomenal music.

Steve Perry Is Still Making Millions From Journey, Even Though He Quit The Band In 1998

How Much Arnel Pineda Is Really Worth

From a young age, Arnel Pineda knew that whatever he did with his life, he would do it singing. According to his biography on his official website , the Filipino rock singer knew as a teenager that his voice was his "key to survival," and he joined his first band, Yjoz, in 1982, when he was just 15 years old. Since then, he has come a long way from his early life on the streets, selling scrap metal to eke out a living. Four years after forming Yjoz, the band — renamed AMO — was champion of the Philippines' Rock Wars contest, and two years after that, he was awarded Best Singer at the Yamaha World Band Explosion.

As it turned out, nothing was going to stop Arnel from realizing his dream, and in 2007, that dream came calling. After seeing him sing covers of Journey songs on YouTube, guitarist Neal Schon tracked him down and convinced him to fly to the United States to audition with the band. In December of that year, Journey made the official announcement that Arnel Pineda was going to join them as their new lead singer. He has been rocking with his childhood heroes ever since. So just how well has achieving his dream paid off? Let's take a look at Arnel Pineda's net worth and see.

Arnel Pineda never stopped believing, and now he's loaded

Arnel Pineda became an instant success at the head of Journey. Fans and critics alike noted the extent of his vocal range and the similarity of his voice to that of original frontman Steve Perry . And realizing his dream has paid off handsomely for Pineda. According to Celebrity Net Worth , after more than a decade of singing with his favorite musicians, his net worth is now $20 million.

The move also paid off for Journey. They pulled in more than $35 million on their first tour with Pineda in 2008. Journey also released a new album that year. Featuring both new originals and past classics, "Revelation" became Journey's first platinum album in over a decade. The band went on to play the Super Bowl halftime show the following year (but what the performers make might actually surprise you).

Pineda has used some of that fortune to give back to his community and help young people in similar situations to those in which he struggled as a kid. The Arnel Pineda Foundation now works with underprivileged children in the Philippines, helping to provide them with a quality education, medical care, and other health services.

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Journey - revenue 2018

Revenue generated by journey in the united states in 2018, by source (in million u.s. dollars).

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The source provided the following information about the methodology: "Money Makers was compiled with Nielsen Music and Billboard Boxscore information, using 2017 U.S. data only. All revenue figures cited are Billboard estimates and may not equal the sum of the subcategories due to rounding. Unless otherwise noted, references to streaming totals consist of combined on-demand audio and video streams. References to recording-career totals are the sum of an act’s sales, streaming and publishing earnings. Revenue from featured-artist appearances, merchandising, synchronization and sponsorship is not included. Touring revenue, after the manager’s cut, equals 34 percent of an act’s Boxscore. The top 10 lists for sales royalties were calculated based on physical and digital albums and track sales; streaming royalties consist of on-demand audio and video streams, and estimated royalties from webcasting, SiriusXM and Music Choice." Some of the figures have been rounded.

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Live Rock Performances

Journey Through the Decades: Exploring the Legacy of the Iconic Rock Group Journey

Rock group journey: a step-by-step guide to their success.

Journey, the iconic rock group that dominated the charts in the 70s and 80s, is one of the most successful bands in music history. Known for their electrifying stage presence and memorable anthems, Journey continues to inspire new generations of fans worldwide.

In this blog post, we will take a step-by-step look at Journey’s success story and explore what made them stand out from other bands during their time.

Step 1: The Early Days Formed in San Francisco in 1973, Journey initially started as a progressive rock band with humble beginnings. The original lineup consisted of guitarist Neal Schon, keyboardist Gregg Rolie, drummer Prairie Prince, bassist Ross Valory and vocalist George Tickner. Their debut album did not achieve much commercial success, but it laid the foundation for what was to come.

Step 2: A New Sound Journey’s sound started evolving in their third album “Infinity” which marked the first time lead singer Steve Perry lent his powerhouse vocals to the mix. This partnership with Perry played a crucial role in shaping Journey’s signature sound that would cement their place in music history.

Step 3: Chart-Topping Hits With Perry onboard as their frontman, Journey’s fourth album “Escape” became an overnight success that catapulted them into superstardom. With hits like “Don’t Stop Believing,” “Open Arms,” and “Separate Ways,” Journey quickly became one of the top-selling acts of all time.

Step 4: Resilience Despite significant commercial success under their belt by the mid-80s, tensions between members led to multiple breakups and changes within the band ‘s lineup. Instead of succumbing to these challenges though—Journey persevered. They bounced back stronger than ever before each breakup preceding another chart-topping hit such as “Send Her My Love,” “Why Can’t This Night Go On Forever?” and “Be Good To Yourself.”

Step 5: Legacy Today, Journey remains one of the most heavily-lauded bands in music history. They have been honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, amid countless other accolades. The band’s style and sound continue to inspire new artists that keep their music alive for future generations.

Journey is a true testament to perseverance, resilience, and dedication in pursuing one’s dreams with an unwavering spirit. Their story is proof that greatness can come through hard work, collaboration with new talent— all while staying true to oneself throughout the journey.

In conclusion, Journey remains one of the pioneering forces in rock music that has stood the test of time. Their legacy continues on through their chart-topping hits, electrifying live performances & inspiring lyrics that have inspired legions of fans worldwide. If you haven’t already, take some time today to listen to Journey’s timeless anthems and appreciate what it means to be truly great!

Your Rock Group Journey FAQs, Answered

The world of rock and roll can be both exhilarating and confusing, especially for new bands just starting out. With so many questions about the process of forming a group , touring, and finding success, it can be difficult to navigate the industry as a new band. Luckily, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about rock group journeys and are here to provide you with some answers.

1. How do I form a successful rock band?

Forming a successful band involves several key steps. Firstly, you’ll need to gather talented musicians who share your passion for music and who work well together. Once you have your lineup sorted, it’s vital to spend time developing your sound; this means writing original material that showcases your individuality as a group .

Additionally, networking with other local bands is an excellent way to gain exposure and build connections within the music scene . Keep in mind that being professional – showing up on time for gigs, respecting venues and their staff members – can go a long way toward establishing yourselves as serious artists.

2. How do we get our music heard by more people?

Thanks to social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook, getting your music out there has never been easier! You can also gain exposure by playing live shows in different venues – put together an EPK (electronic press kit) with music recordings, photos of the band performing live etc., approach influential blogs or radio stations in order to get recognition.

Building relationships with other bands can also lead to more gig opportunities: Consider organizing joint shows or collaborating on projects together for wider audience reach.

3. What should we expect when taking our band on tour? Touring is simultaneously exciting yet grueling experience for any Rock-n-Roll outfit — from managing finances while away from home base i.e., paying gas/food bills – it’s necessary that every member pull equal weight in sharing these responsibilities if one falls ill or becomes fatigued- keeping track of equipment, navigating unfamiliar cities and venues with clear directions or GPS, promotional material distribution (to be shared among different show audiences), meeting new fans before moving on.

It can be tough to keep morale up when times are tough such as having little turnout in the audience, sleeping for days in cramped van quarters or not knowing where your next meal will come from. You might experience some transient “road life blues” but if your group manages to stay strong & motivated through rough patches – you will inevitably stick together as a tight-knit team with lasting memories that are both meaningful and epic.

4. What makes a great Rock-n-Roll group?

Great rock bands often share common traits: a powerful, entertaining live presence; a willingness to take risks with their music while staying true to their sound; and creative drive. These groups also tend to have dedicated fan bases thanks to consistent touring and promotion.. Innovation in songwriting is key as well – think about pairing lyrical relatability that resonates with listeners along with technically accomplished musicianship.

Ultimately, it takes personality and hard work too! — the perseverance required of sticking upstanding persistent dedication—all combined together make up that indefinable “X-factor” which draws fans in for an exciting journey.

These four FAQs offer just scratching the surface when it comes to the world of rock band formation, touring footwork & success factors. However, by putting these answers into practice and maintaining passion/commitment throughout the process — you’ll be well on your way towards achieving the rock star status you’ve always dreamed of!

The Top 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Rock Group Journey

Journey is a household name for anyone who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s. Their music has stood the test of time and they continue to be one of the most beloved rock groups out there. But, did you know that there are several interesting and unknown facts about this iconic band ? Here are the top 5 surprising facts you didn’t know about Journey.

1. Steve Perry wasn’t their first lead singer When most people think of Journey, they immediately picture Steve Perry’s remarkable vocals. However, Steve Perry was not their original lead singer! In fact, Journey had three other lead singers before Perry joined the group in 1977 – Gregg Rolie (who went on to join Santana), Robert Fleischman, and George Tickner.

2. The song “Don’t Stop Believin'” almost didn’t make it onto their album “Don’t Stop Believin'” is without a doubt one of Journey’s biggest hits, but it almost didn’t make it onto their classic album Escape. The band initially left it off the album because they felt like it needed more work. It wasn’t until their producer convinced them to record it again that they finally agreed to include it on the album – and we’re so grateful they did!

3. They’ve broken up multiple times Despite being known as one of the bands that defined an era, Journey have actually broken up multiple times throughout their career. After increasing tensions within the band led to temporary break-ups in 1980 and 1983, guitarist Neal Schon was determined to keep Journey going even when others were uncertain about whether or not they should stay together as a group .

4. Their hit song “Separate Ways” has an infamous video The music video for “Separate Ways” is notorious among fans as one of the worst music videos ever made. Shot entirely in front of green screens with very basic graphics, the video features the band members awkwardly playing their instruments while poorly choreographed female models dance around them. The result is cringe-inducing, but has still managed to become a cult classic in its own right.

5. Journey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame… without Steve Perry In 2017, Journey was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – but Steve Perry didn’t show up to perform with them. In fact, they performed with their singer at the time, Arnel Pineda, who had been discovered on YouTube by guitarist Neal Schon. While some fans were disappointed that Steve Perry didn’t make an appearance, his contributions to Journey’s legacy were not forgotten during their induction speech.

In conclusion, Journey may have been around for decades and produced timeless classics like “Don’t Stop Believin'”, but there are still plenty of lesser-known facts about this iconic band that will surprise even diehard fans! From lineup changes to notorious music videos and Hall of Fame inductions sans lead singers – these five facts just scratch the surface of what makes Journey such a fascinating group .

A Look At The Discography Of Rock Group Journey

Journey is a classic rock band that has been captivating audiences around the world for over four decades. With their powerful vocals, energetic guitar riffs, and memorable choruses, this group has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their timeless songs have continued to inspire generations of fans and musicians alike, solidifying their place as one of the greatest rock bands in history.

Let’s take a closer look at the discography of Journey, starting with their first album “Journey” released in 1975. This album featured hits such as “Of A Lifetime,” “In My Lonely Feeling/Conversations,” and “To Play Some Music,” which showcased the band’s progressive rock sound . Although it did not achieve commercial success at the time of its release, it set the foundation for future albums to come.

Their second album, “Look Into The Future” was released in 1976 and helped to further establish Journey’s unique sound . The album featured songs such as “I’m Gonna Leave You,” “People,” “Nickel And Dime,” and more that were notable because they incorporated elements of progressive rock mixed with traditional blues-rock elements.

Their third album, titled “Next” was released just one year later in 1977. This time around Journey opted for a mainstream rock sound with songs like “Spaceman” and “Kahoutek”. Things really picked up steam for the band after lead vocalist Steve Perry joined forces with them in 1978.

With Perry onboard, Journey’s fourth studio album titled “Infinity” was released which proved to be a game changer for them on the charts. Released in 1980 it contained hits like “Feeling That Way”, “Anytime” & “Wheel In The Sky”, amongst many others – helping the album go platinum three times.

The next year brought forth another significant milestone for Journey as they released Escape (1981), an album that defined their sound in the mainstream, highlighted by tracks such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Who’s Crying Now”, and “Stone In Love”. All of which helped this blockbuster album achieve the sales accolade of a diamond certification.

Their seventh studio album, Frontiers (1983), continued in the vein of Escape with anthems like “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” and power ballads such as “Faithfully.” They also mixed things up with a bit more synthesizer use than their previous albums, depicting a new era for Journey’s musical style.

Journey’s eighth album Raised on Radio (1986) marked another creative shift. With Perry at the helm once again on lead vocals, they moved away from their signature rock guitar sound to include funk R&B beats on songs like “Girl Can’t Help It” and “Be Good To Yourself.”

Subsequent journeys into reunited line-ups have seen continual sonic changes over time, however many fans will always identify Steve Perry as providing the trademark trademark awareness throughout much of Journey music history.

In conclusion, Journey has left a lasting impression in rock history with an impressive discography that spans several decades. From their early days as a progressive rock band to their rise to chart-topping success with hits including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and incorporating sounds ranging through blues-rock into pop-rock throughout its careers; it’s clear that each album spotlights something unique about them. Whatever your favorite era or lineup may be — one thing is certain: Journey’s music will continue to inspire and captivate fans around the world.

Inside Story Of The Rise And Fall Of Rock Group Journey

As one of the most beloved American rock bands of all time, Journey captured the hearts and minds of fans across the globe with their soaring ballads and electrifying performances. From their humble beginnings in San Francisco to their meteoric rise to fame in the 1980s, the story of Journey is a tale of triumph and tragedy that will forever be etched into the annals of music history.

The genesis of Journey dates back to 1973 when former members of Santana, Neal Schon and Gregg Rolie, joined forces with drummer Prairie Prince, bassist Ross Valory, and guitarist George Tickner to form a new group. The band’s early sound was heavily influenced by jazz fusion and progressive rock, but as they began recording and touring extensively throughout the mid-70s, they gradually evolved into a more mainstream rock outfit.

In 1977, Journey released their fourth album “Infinity,” which marked a turning point in their career. The record was a commercial success thanks to hits like “Lights” and “Wheel In The Sky,” launching them onto arena stages across America. By 1981’s chart-topping “Escape,” which gave us epic power ballads like “Open Arms” and “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey had cemented themselves as one of the biggest acts on the planet.

However, behind closed doors things were far from rosy for the band . Struggling with addiction issues and personal conflicts between members led to lineup changes over the years including Steve Perry replacing Rolie on lead vocals in 1977 before himself being replaced by Arnel Pineda in 2007 amid Perry’s struggles with vocal damage.

In addition to those internal problems member infighting also led to break ups following differences over style-disconnect after Shearhart stopped writing songs when they hired Jonathan Cain causing some frictions between member.

Despite these challenges though, Journey remained an incredibly popular live act, drawing huge crowds to their shows with their catchy hooks and anthemic choruses. They continued to release albums throughout the 90s and beyond, but the magic of the peak years was never quite recaptured.

Today, many fans fondly remember Journey for their iconic hits, from “Open Arms” to “Don’t Stop Believin’,” as a testimony that despite hardships and failure one can rise back stronger than ever. Their story reminds us that success in music requires not only talent but also perseverance, grit, and resilience; journey showed strength even in moments when they had all odds against them. And though their era might have passed into history books but always an adventure continues for rock lovers as they follow other great bands hoping tales-such journeys repeat through innovation or interchanging achievements even today to lead future generations towards endless possibilities rather than repetition of same glory-days narratives.

Experience the Evolution of Music with Rock Group Journey

Journey is one of the iconic rock bands that took the world by storm in the late 70s and early 80s. The band’s distinctive blend of rock, classical, and progressive music marked them out as visionary musicians whose sound would continue to influence audiences for decades to come.

The history of Journey dates back to their founding in San Francisco in 1973. The group originally started out with the name Golden Gate Rhythm Section but quickly changed it after they recruited Neal Schon, a guitar prodigy who had played with Carlos Santana on his first three albums. Alongside keyboardist Gregg Rolie and drummer Aynsley Dunbar, Schon helped create a unique style that blended traditional rock with more experimental sounds .

Journey’s early years were characterized by a constantly changing line-up, but in 1977 things came together when Steve Perry joined as lead vocalist. With Perry’s soaring voice fronting the group, they began recording hit songs like “Wheel In The Sky,” “Lights,” and “Any Way You Want It.” These tracks helped propel Journey onto the national stage making them one of America’s most popular rock groups .

One notable example of their talent is their iconic song “Don’t Stop Believing” which has stood the test of time becoming an anthem for generations. Its catchy melody combined with meaningful lyrics made it an instant classic among fans and critics alike. In fact, this song is so widely appreciated that it even appeared in many films including “Rock of Ages”, “Family Guy: Partial Terms of Endearment” among others.

Journey continued to evolve throughout their career, experimenting with different musical styles while staying true to their core values as musicians. There is no doubt that without Journey’s contribution to rock music there wouldn’t be modern-day classics like ‘Arnel Pineda’s Faithfully’ which was released about Thirty-seven years after Arnel joined the band in 2007. Although the members have changed over time, their music remains timeless; proving that they were not just a fleeting trend, but rather one of rock music ‘s greats.

So there you have it, Journey’s musical evolution from a group of talented musicians seeking to create something original and memorable to becoming one of rock’s most influential bands. With their legacy firmly cemented in the annals of music history, Journey will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come!

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JOURNEY: WORLDS APART NAMED AS ONE OF THE BEST ROCK BOOKS OF 2023

ANNAPOLIS, Md. , Dec. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UltimateClassicRock.com, the most reliable source in classic rock news, has placed Nick DeRiso's new biography, JOURNEY: WORLDS APART , among the 30 best rock and roll books published in 2023. DeRiso's book joins a notable list of rock histories on Bernie Taupin , Geddy Lee , Lou Reed , Nirvana, and David Bowie .

JOURNEY: WORLDS APART named one of the Best Rock Books of 2023.

"Journey: Worlds Apart is the story of how one band went from a promising but unassuming Bay Area backing group to one of the most successful rock acts of all time — the essential story for every Journey fan." —Allison Rapp, UltimateClassicRock.com columnist

Published by Time Passages , JOURNEY: WORLDS APART , is the definitive accounting of Journey, the multiplatinum "Don't Stop Believin'" rock and roll hitmakers. DeRiso, a multiple columnist of the year award-winner with the USA Today network, conducted dozens of interviews for a book that's not just a biography—it's a backstage pass.

Journey was formed from the remnants of post- Woodstock Santana with Gregg Rolie and Neal Schon . As the band evolved, new front man Steve Perry took on a central role as songwriter and performer, providing the vocal punch for Top 10 singles like "Separate Ways," "Open Arms," and "Any Way You Want It."

The band's story is guided from their earliest roots by conversations with co-founding members Schon, Rolie, Prairie Prince, and Pat Morrow , a long-time confidant to Journey manager Herbie Herbert . DeRiso also interviews producers, sidemen, label representatives, and acknowledged experts like former Rolling Stone contributing editor David Wild , original MTV VJ Martha Quinn , and longtime San Francisco Chronicle music writer Joel Selvin .

JOURNEY: WORLDS APART takes a definitive look back at Journey, with deep explorations of every era, every album, and every song. The book tracks the band season-by-season and year-by-year in Time Passages' exclusive format, weaving their history with other notable bands, including Santana , Van Halen , and Sammy Hagar , along with dozens of rare band photos, and informational graphics. It also includes an exclusive Appendix of Journey concept art from famed rock illustrator Stanley Mouse . The book is now available on Amazon as a paperback and eBook, and a full-color hardcover edition is coming in early 2024.

NICK DeRISO is assistant managing editor with Townsquare Media.

Time Passages, LLC is an independent publishing company near Annapolis, Maryland .

SOURCE Time Passages

Complete List Of All Journey Current And Former Band Members

Feature Photo: Bruce Alan Bennett / Shutterstock.com

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, born on February 27, 1954, in Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, is an American musician best known as the lead guitarist for Journey. He was one of the founding members of the band in 1973. Over the years, Schon played a significant role in shaping the band’s sound and has appeared on every Journey album to date, from their self-titled debut album “Journey” (1975) to their most recent releases. He primarily plays the electric guitar but has been known to play acoustic guitar and perform backing vocals as well. Schon co-wrote some of the band’s most iconic songs like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Wheel in the Sky,” and “Any Way You Want It.” Besides his work with Journey, Neal Schon has had a rich solo career and has also been a part of other bands like Santana and Bad English .

Ross Valory

Ross Valory, born on February 2, 1949, in San Francisco, California, is an American musician renowned for being Journey’s original bass guitarist. He joined the band at its inception in 1973 and contributed to albums like “Journey” (1975), “Infinity” (1978), “Escape” (1981), and many more. Valory played both the bass guitar and occasionally provided backing vocals. He was a part of Journey until he was fired from the band in 2020. Apart from Journey, Valory was involved in the Steve Miller Band and also had a side project called “The Vu.”

Gregg Rolie

Gregg Rolie was born on June 17, 1947, in Seattle, Washington, and is an American keyboardist and singer. He was a founding member of Journey and joined the band in 1973. Rolie played keyboards and was the lead vocalist on the band’s first three albums: “Journey” (1975), “Look into the Future” (1976), and “Next” (1977). He left Journey in 1980 to pursue other musical endeavors. Notably, he was a member of Santana before joining Journey and co-wrote and sang lead vocals on classics like “Black Magic Woman” and “Evil Ways.” After leaving Journey, he went on to form The Gregg Rolie Band and also joined Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band .

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 , born on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California, is an American singer known for his soaring vocals. He joined Journey in 1977 and quickly became the band’s iconic lead vocalist. Steve Perry played a significant role in Journey’s commercial success and was a key contributor to albums like “Infinity” (1978), “Evolution” (1979), “Escape” (1981), among others. He co-wrote and sang some of Journey’s most famous songs, including “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” Perry left the band in 1998 due to health issues and to pursue a solo career, which itself has been highly successful, featuring hits like “Oh Sherrie.”

Steve Smith

Steve Smith, born on August 21, 1954, in Whitman, Massachusetts, is an American drummer. He joined Journey in 1978, replacing Aynsley Dunbar, and played on some of their most successful albums like “Evolution,” “Escape,” and “Frontiers.” Known for his technical skill, Smith left the band in 1985 but returned for various stints, the latest being from 2015 to 2020. Outside of Journey, Smith has had a rich career in jazz and has been part of his own jazz fusion band, Vital Information.

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.

Complete List Of All Journey Current And Former Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023

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About the author.

Brian Kachejian

Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.

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Why Journey’s Reunion With Steve Perry Was Just A Disaster

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 07: Inductees Steve Perry and Neal Schon of Journey speak onstage during the 32nd Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center on April 7, 2017 in New York City. The broadcast will air on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 8:00 PM ET/PT on HBO. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)

Discussing the band Journey without mentioning frontman Steve Perry is like missing a crucial part of their story. Perry led the band to huge success in the ’80s, took a break, came back in the ’90s, and then left again, opting for a quiet life for nearly two decades. This article dives into Perry’s return to the band and the reasons he left once more.

In the 80s, Journey was a big deal, churning out albums, hits, and even having their own video game. Even though the game wasn’t great, it was a big deal back then.

Perry guided Journey through their peak from 1977 to 1987 and then again from 1995 to 1998. In between, he did his solo thing but kept a low profile, only returning to music a few years ago.

The Audition that Changed Everything

Born in California to Portuguese parents, Perry got into music at 12, inspired by Sam Cooke’s “Cupid.” He joined Journey after their manager heard a tape of Perry’s previous band and liked his voice. Perry replaced Robert Fleishman as the frontman, even though they did a sneaky tour to avoid causing a stir.

Perry’s pop style brought success but also turned away some old fans. His first run with the band ended in 1985 due to personal issues like his mom being sick and a breakup.

After leaving in 1987, Perry worked on a solo album, but he wasn’t feeling it, so he took a break until the mid-90s, making a few stage appearances.

The Reunion Proposal

In 1995, Perry suggested reuniting with Journey, but with new conditions, including a change in management. With a new manager, they got back together and made a successful album, Trial by Fire, but Perry’s health issues in 1998 stopped their tour plans. Perry didn’t promote the album much, citing pain and avoiding surgery.

By 1998, some band members wanted to move on without Perry, looking for a new singer despite his pleas. Steve Augeri, a former rocker turned GAP employee, joined, facing challenges, and was eventually replaced.

In the end, Journey found their current vocalist, Arnel Pineda, after a bumpy ride with various changes and challenges.

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Unlocking the Secrets of Journey’s Net Worth

Welcome to the world of Journey, where rock and roll meets financial success. In this section, we will explore the mysteries of Journey’s net worth, including their band net worth, members’ net worth, and their lead singer’s earnings.

Journey has been a force to be reckoned with in the music industry for over four decades. Their chart-topping hits and sold-out concerts have cemented their legacy in rock and roll history. But the question remains: how much are they worth?

Join me as we delve deep into their earnings, income streams, and financial success to uncover the untold riches of Journey.

Key Takeaways:

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Journey has a legendary net worth, with success spanning over four decades.
We will explore the net worth of Journey as a band, as well as the individual earnings of its members and lead singer.
Our analysis will cover their revenue streams, including album sales, concert tours, merchandise, and licensing deals.
Through our exploration, we will uncover how Journey’s financial success mirrors their enduring popularity and impact on the music industry.
Get ready to be amazed by the incredible financial legacy of Journey!

Journey has amassed a significant net worth through their successful career in the music industry. In 2021, the band’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million, making them one of the wealthiest bands in the world.

Their success can be attributed to their diverse revenue streams, including album sales, concert tours, merchandise, and licensing deals. Journey has sold over 75 million records worldwide, with their greatest hits album alone selling over 25 million copies.

In addition to their album sales, Journey’s concert tours have also contributed significantly to their net worth. Their tours have grossed over $1 billion in revenue, with their 1981 Escape tour alone grossing over $44 million.

Journey’s merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia, have also contributed to their earnings. Moreover, their licensing deals, which allow their music to be used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, have added to Journey’s net worth.

“We’ve been fortunate to have a lot of our songs used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, and that’s a nice revenue stream that you don’t really count on,” says Journey’s guitarist Neal Schon.

Journey’s success has allowed its individual members to accumulate significant net worths as well. The band’s lead singer, Arnel Pineda, has a net worth of approximately $20 million. Guitarist Neal Schon has a net worth of around $30 million, while drummer Steve Smith’s net worth is estimated at $15 million.

In conclusion, Journey’s diverse revenue streams and continued success in the music industry have contributed to their impressive net worth. Their album sales, concert tours, merchandise, and licensing deals have all added to their financial legacy.

Journey’s net worth is undoubtedly impressive, but what about the individual net worth of its members? Let’s take a closer look.

Starting with the lead singer, Arnel Pineda’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. Since joining the band in 2007, Pineda has become an integral part of Journey’s success, contributing his powerful vocals to hit songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Separate Ways.”

Neal Schon, Journey’s guitarist, has a net worth of approximately $30 million. With a career spanning over five decades, Schon has not only found success with Journey but also with his solo work and collaborations with other artists.

The late Steve Perry, Journey’s original lead singer, has a net worth of around $50 million. Perry’s contribution to Journey’s success cannot be overstated, with his distinctive voice elevating hits like “Open Arms” and “Who’s Crying Now.”

The other members of Journey have also made significant contributions to the band’s success. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain has a net worth of $50 million, while bassist Ross Valory’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. Drummer Steve Smith rounds out the lineup with a net worth of approximately $10 million.

It’s worth noting that the net worth of each member doesn’t solely come from their work with Journey. They have all had individual ventures and investments that have contributed to their financial standing.

“We’ve all had our individual things going on, our own investments and things like that,” says Neal Schon. “But we always kept a focus on Journey, and I think that’s what’s helped us maintain our success all these years.”

Together, the net worth of Journey’s members paints a picture of remarkable success and enduring popularity. Their incredible talent and hard work have undoubtedly paid off, both individually and as a band.

It’s hard to overstate the impact that Journey has had on the music industry over the decades. As a band, they have achieved unparalleled success, with their chart-topping hits, record-breaking albums, and enduring popularity.

Journey has sold over 75 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. Their album “Escape” alone has sold over 12 million copies. Their music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, with their timeless hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Any Way You Want It” still filling stadiums and arenas around the world.

Moreover, Journey’s impact extends beyond their music. The band’s influence can be felt across popular culture, from television shows to movies to video games. Their sound has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including “The Sopranos,” “Glee,” and “Family Guy.” In the gaming world, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a fixture in the hit video game “Rock Band.”

“Journey’s impact extends beyond their music. The band’s influence can be felt across popular culture, from television shows to movies to video games.”

All of this success has undoubtedly contributed to Journey’s net worth. As we’ve discussed in previous sections, the band’s earnings from album sales, concert tours, and merchandise have all played a pivotal role in their financial success. However, it’s important to note that their impact on the music industry has also been a significant factor in their overall net worth.

In the end, Journey’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. Their legacy as one of the greatest bands of all time is secure, as is their place in pop culture history. As long as people continue to “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey will remain a testament to the power of great music.

In conclusion, researching Journey’s net worth has been a fascinating experience. It is clear that their success as a band has contributed significantly to their overall financial standing. With their chart-topping hits and enduring popularity, it is no surprise that Journey’s net worth has remained high over the years.

But it’s not just the band’s success that has influenced their net worth. Each individual member’s personal ventures and investments have also played a role in shaping their net worth. From lead singer Steve Perry to guitarist Neal Schon, each member has contributed their own unique talents and financial savvy to the band’s overall wealth.

Despite the challenges and changes in the music industry over the years, Journey continues to be a powerhouse, with their net worth reflecting their legendary status. It is clear that their remarkable talent, hard work, and enduring popularity have made them a force to be reckoned with in the music world.

So what is Journey’s net worth? While the exact figure may be hard to pin down, it is safe to say that the band’s legacy and financial success will continue to endure for years to come.

The exact net worth of Journey as a band is constantly changing due to various factors. However, it is estimated to be in the range of several hundred million dollars.

As of 2021, Journey’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million.

Journey’s earnings come from various sources, including album sales, concert tours, merchandise sales, licensing deals, and royalties from their music.

Steve Perry, the former lead singer of Journey, has a net worth of approximately $60 million.

While specific numbers may vary, each member of Journey is estimated to have a net worth in the range of tens of millions of dollars.

Journey’s drummer, Steve Smith, has a net worth of approximately $15 million.

Journey has had a significant influence on the music industry, with numerous chart-topping hits, record-breaking albums, and an enduring popularity that has spanned decades.

Journey’s success in the music industry has played a significant role in their overall net worth. Their sold-out concerts, high album sales, and licensing deals have all contributed to their financial success.

Journey’s net worth has been influenced by various factors, including the success of their music, the popularity of their live performances, and the individual ventures and investments of their band members.

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)

Journey "Don't Stop Believin'" (Live 1981: Escape Tour - 2022 HD Remaster)

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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10 Highest Earning Bands Of All Time

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10. abba – certified unit sales: 58 million, 9. queen – certified unit sales: 61 million, 8. the rolling stones – certified unit sales: 66 million, 7. aerosmith – certified unit sales: 66.5 million, 6. ac/dc – certified unit sales: 71 million, 5. pink floyd – certified unit sales: 74.5 million, 4. the eagles – certified unit sales: $100 million, 3. led zeppelin – certified unit sales: 111.5 million, 2. u2 – certified unit sales: 150 million, 1. the beatles – certified unit sales: 250 million.

Although most of the bands in this list are no longer in existence, their music still lives on the hearts and minds of their fans due to syndication and the popularity the bands enjoyed during their time. Regardless of your taste in music, these bands qualify to be the greatest bands of all times based on album sales and sold out tour dates. The bands also boast of having more platinum record sales, than most artists in the game today.

It is important to note that our list of top ten highest earning bands is dominated by rock bands. There are however a few bands in this list with a pop and dance touch incorporated in their act. All in all, rock bands seem to take the day when taking about the highest earning bands of all time. Given the fact that the U.S. and the U.K have the biggest percentage of rock music fans, expect the highest earning bands in this list to come from these two countries. There are however a few rock bands in this list from other countries like Sweden and Ireland.

As mentioned above, most rock bands in this list are no longer active like old times. There are however a few that have decided to come back together due to popular demand. Most of the bands in this list have done tribute tours and one time shows long after they considered retirement. Some have even tried to get back together to create tribute records, cover songs, and special tour dates for their fans worldwide.

Such moves have cemented their earning positions to date. In fact, most of the bands featured in this list are still earning years after some of them released their last albums. They have managed to make an impressive comeback thanks to syndication rights for songs used in movies, radio and TV. If you are interested in knowing which bands top the list in terms of earnings, below are top 10 highest earning bands of all time bases on certified unit sales and other factors like tour dates, net worth e.t.c.

ABBA is the only Swedish band to make it to this list. The band released their first album in 1972. They worked together for 10 years. Although ABBA was considered a pop/ disco band, they have a number of heavy hit songs under their belt. Some of ABBA’s greatest hit songs include Fernando and Dancing Queen. Considering the band was only active for 10 years, they performed extremely well given the fact that they have sold over 381 million albums and singles worldwide. The band members have a total estimated net worth of $300 million earned in album sales, tribute tours and concerts as well as music rights.

Queen is one of the many U.K. bands in this list with record earnings worldwide. The band debuted in 1971 as a rock and pop music band. They released their first album in 1973. Since then, they haven’t stopped touring. The band boasts of selling over 95 million records to date (66 million in certified unit sales). Because the band is still active, they continue to earn from tours and special concerts. According to the latest estimates, the band has earned over $200 million to date in record sales, tour dates and special concerts.

Popularly known because of lead singer Mick Jagger, this U.K rock and blues band deserves to be in this list for selling over 66 million albums worldwide. The band is best known for their top selling Hot Rocks compilation album. The band has been active since 1962. Although the band claims to have sold over 94 million albums to date, only 66 million unit sales are certified. The band has earned in excess of $200 million in tour dates/concerts around the world.

Aerosmith has been active since 1970. The band is well known because of its lead singer Steven Tyler. This American band has released very many albums. The album; Toys in the Attic however stands out for being the top selling album. The album is the band’s best selling studio album in the U.S. (Sold 8 million certified copies). Aerosmith’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1980s when the band featured many hits on the charts. To date, the band boasts of 66.5 million certified unit sales. This translates to over $150 million in earnings when you consider tour dates and concert earnings.

AC/DC is the only Australian band to make it to this list. The band has been active from 1973 to date. Although the band has hired different drummers and bass players over the years, the core members remain the same. AC/DC’s popularity soared in the 1970’s and 80’s when they released a couple of hits and a top selling album called Back in Black. To date, they have sold 71 million albums (certified unit sales). When you consider unofficial sales, the figure could surpass 108 albums worldwide. AC/DC member Brian Johnson is worth $80 million according to Sunday Time latest rich list. Combined, the band’s net worth can easily surpass the $200 million mark.

Pink Floyd is another popular U.K band to make it to this list. The band was active between 1965 and 1996. In the three decades, the band managed to sell 74.5 million albums (certified sales). When you consider unofficial sales, Pink Floyd album sales can easily surpass the 100 million mark. This explains why the band made over $250 million (record sales and tour dates) over their three decade career. Although they all ended up broke, they deserve a spot in this list for their record unit sales earnings. The band is planning a tour in 2014 to reverse their fortune.

The Eagles can easily qualify as the oldest U.S. band on this list considering they made their debut in 1971. The band was active for only 9 years after being formed (from 1971 to 1980). Afterwards, the band took a break for 14 years returning in 1994. They have been active since then. The Eagles are popular for their top selling album dubbed Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 which features some of their top soft and country rock hits. Lead singer Don Henley takes a lot of credit for making this band stand out in terms of genre choice. The Eagles hold a record in certified unit sales (100 million) and over $250 million in earnings over the years. They easily qualify to be in this list.

This hard rock and heavy metal band easily qualifies to be in this list considering the band has over 100 million in certified unit sales. This is an impressive earnings figure given the fact Led Zeppelin was only active for 12 years (1968-1980). The band top selling album Led Zeppelin IV played a significant role in catapulting this band to the top considering the album sold a record 37 million copies worldwide. When you consider album sales and reunion tours in 1985, 1988, 1995 and 2007, Led Zeppelin has earned over $300 million to date.

Popularly known because of lead singer Bono, this Irish band makes it to this list because of selling over 100 million album copies worldwide. This is impressive considering the band has released only 12 studio albums since they made their debut in 1976. U2 is one of the few active bands in this list. They still tour and hold concerts to date. This explains why their net worth has soared to $838 million as of April 2012 according to the Sunday Times UK.

Although there are many claims that the Beatles have sold over 600 million albums worldwide, only 250 million unit sales are certified. The band’s top selling album; the white album sold over 20 million copies worldwide. The band is undoubtedly one of the most successful rock and pop bands of all times when you consider total earnings. It is estimated that the band made approximately $600 million in the short time the band was active (1960-1970). Unlike Pink Floyd band members, the Beatles band members are filthy rich. Ringo and Paul (the only remaining Beatles band members) are multimillionaires with an estimated combined net worth of $1 billion. Considering no other band in the world has sold more albums than the Beatles, it is easy to see why the band takes the number one spot in this list.

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"It's going to be a great party for all!": Journey announce 50th anniversary tour dates with Cheap Trick

Journey have announced plans to bring their 50th anniversary tour to the UK and Ireland. The band will play 11 arena shows in October and November, kicking off at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff on October 30, and climaxing at The O2 in London on November 17. Support at all shows will comes from Cheap Trick .

"It's been too long since we've seen you all!" says Journey guitarist Neal Schon. "We are all very excited to be coming back to the UK and playing with our good friends Cheap Trick, who I’ve known and played with since the 70s. It’s going to be a great party for all!"

An AEG presale will begin this Thursday at 10am, while the general sale will start on Friday at the same time.

Journey are currently on the US leg of their 50th anniversary tour, and in July they hit the road for a run of North American stadium shows with Def Leppard. Support at each of the stadium shows will comes from Cheap Trick, the Steve Miller Band or Heart . Full dates below.

Journey: 50th Anniversary Tour

Feb 28: Sioux City Tyson Events Center, IA Feb 29: Rapid City The Monument, SD Mar 02: Grand Forks Alerus Center, ND Mar 04: Winnipeg Canada Life Centre, MB Mar 07: Calgary Scotiabank Saddledome, AB Mar 09: Edmonton Rogers Place, AB Mar 10: Saskatoon SaskTel Centre, SK Mar 13: Billings First Interstate Arena at MetraPark, MT Mar 15: West Valley City Maverik Center, UT Mar 16: Las Vegas Michelob ULTRA Arena, NV Mar 21: Las Cruces Pan American Center, NM Mar 22: Lubbock United Supermarkets Arena, TX Apr 15: Omaha CHI Health Center, NE Apr 16: Peoria Peoria Civic Center Arena, IL Apr 19: Fort Wayne Memorial Coliseum, IN Apr 20: Charleston Charleston Coliseum, WV Apr 23: North Charleston North Charleston Coliseum, SC Apr 26: Norfolk Scope Arena, VA Apr 27: Wilkes Barre Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, PA Apr 29: Bridgeport Total Mortgage Arena, CT

Jul 06: St Louis Busch Stadium, MO* Jul 10: Orlando Camping World Stadium, FL* Jul 13: Atlanta Truist Park, GA^ Jul 15: Chicago Wrigley Field , IL^ Jul 18: Detroit Comerica Park , MI^ Jul 20: Nashville Nissan Stadium, TN^ Jul 23: Philadelphia Citizens Bank Park, PA^ Jul 25: Hershey Hersheypark Stadium, PA^ Jul 27: Pittsburgh PNC Park, PA^ Jul 30: Cleveland Progressive Field, OH$ Aug 02: Toronto Rogers Centre, ON$ Aug 05: Boston Fenway Park, MA$ Aug 07: Flushing Citi Field, NY^ Aug 12: Arlington Globe Life Field, TX^ Aug 14: Houston Minute Maid Park, TX^ Aug 16: San Antonio Alamodome, TX^ Aug 19: Minneapolis Target Field, MN^ Aug 23: Phoenix Chase Field^ Aug 25: Los Angeles SoFi Stadium, CA^ Aug 28: San Francisco Oracle Park, CA^ Aug 30: San Diego Petco Park, CA Sep 04: Seattle T-Mobile Park, WA* Sep 08: Denver Coors Field, CO*

Oct 30: Cardiff Utilita Arena, UK# Oct 31: Nottingham Motorpoint Arena, UK# Nov 02: Glasgow OVO Hydro, UK# Nov 04: Belfast SSE Arena, UK# Nov 05: Dublin 3Arena, UK# Nov 08: Manchester AO Arena, UK# Nov 09: Leeds First Direct Arena, UK# Nov 11: Liverpool M&S Bank Arena, UK# Nov 13: Birmingham Utilita Arena, UK# Nov 16: Newcastle Utilita Arena, UK# Nov 17: London The O2, UK#

* with Def Leppard and Cheap Trick ^ with Def Leppard and Steve Miller Band $ with Def Leppard and Heart # with Cheap Trick

Get tickets .

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How Much Do Rock Stars Make Per Show? A Deep Dive into Concert Earnings of Music Legends

You may be shocked to hear rock icons like The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen rake in over $1 million per show on their tours. Mega-popular legacy acts can command massive payouts thanks to the power of nostalgia and spectacle. But how do aging rockers earn such astronomical concert paydays decades into their careers? Let‘s dive into the inner financial workings of rock‘s most lucrative live acts!

Rock Superstars Earn Between $500k to $2 Million Per Show

According to Pollstar‘s analysis of the top touring acts, stadium-filling rock legends can expect to earn between $500,000 to $2 million or more per show these days. This puts them on par with today‘s biggest pop divas and rappers. However, depending on their longevity and prestige, some heritage rock bands make even more.

For example, insiders estimate The Rolling Stones pocket around $6 million per show even in their 70s and 80s, while fellow British Invasion survivors The Who charge up to $1 million nightly. Meanwhile, Baby Boomer icons like Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Billy Joel pull in $2 million+ apiece.

Why do classic rock bands command such astronomical amounts? Let‘s break down the economics powering these massive per show payouts.

Venerable Acts Have More Negotiating Power

Legendary rock bands have tremendous leverage when negotiating their concert fees with promoters and venues. Most have decades of hit songs, Top 40 albums, and revered live performances under their belts. Seeing them could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially as rock heroes retire or pass on.

Their iconic status allows them to charge big premiums, knowing fans will pay extra to catch rock & roll history in the flesh. Plus with enormous production costs, they can justify higher pricing. Established artists also have long-standing relationships with industry players, which helps smooth negotiations.

Nostalgia Is Big Business

Boomer and Gen X fans have deep emotional connections to the rock acts that defined their youth. Hearing classic tracks like "Satisfaction" or "Born To Run" takes them back in time. And today‘s younger concert-goers recognize these bands as legends they need to witness live.

That nostalgia enables heritage rock bands to play stadiums and arenas decades past their chart peak. Fans see them as culture heroes to experience before it‘s too late. Their songs remain embedded in pop culture memory through movie soundtracks and commercials too.

Scarcity Drives Demand

Many of the top-grossing rock acts only perform sporadic concert runs between long breaks. The Stones might tour once every 3-5 years for example. This scarcity makes each show more of a hot ticket.

Rumors of retirement also stoke fan fear they may never get to see aging musicians again. That urgency feeds sky-high resale values. When supply is limited, demand surges.

Production Values Dazzle

Unlike an acoustic singer-songwriter, legendary rock bands deliver extravagant multimedia spectacles to justify their ticket tags. Concertgoers expect pyrotechnics, high-tech lighting, LED screens, and exotic staging from veterans. Their shows offer as much theater as music.

Spinal Tap-esque props like U2‘s giant claw stage reinforce the idea fans are getting their money‘s worth. Hit-packed setlists of two hours or more also showcase these band‘s lasting creativity and chops. The total experience makes the production costs pay off.

Superfans Will Pay More

Diehard older fans have more income to spend reliving their youth with VIP packages. Many are willing to drop $500 or more for backstage tours, soundchecks, early entry, signed merch, and premium seating. Enhanced experiences greatly boost per show earnings.

For example, The Eagles charge up to $1,500 for front row seats. Deep fan pockets enable rock legends to exploit their most fervent followers‘ willingness to pay.

Rock Icons Have Enduring Cultural Relevance

Unlike fleeting pop fads, legendary rock bands represent solid artistic legacies. They‘ve created multi-generational bodies of work spanning decades. Seeing their concerts offers a journey through pop history.

Bands like Queen and Led Zeppelin have remained relevant through movies, video games, and younger artists sampling their hits. They still get mainstream media exposure. So fans of all ages feel compelled to catch them live if possible.

How Do Today‘s Rock Bands Stack Up?

Let‘s compare concert earnings of some current arena and stadium rock acts:

Contemporary rock bands earn big paydays but usually can‘t command the premium fees of older legends with decades of history. Pop crossover stars like Bruno Mars who fill arenas make comparable amounts. But for metal and indie bands, building to arena headliner status takes many grueling club tours.

Let‘s Break Down The Rolling Stones‘ Massive Concert Payday

As the highest-grossing rock band of all time, The Rolling Stones are the gold standard for legendary concert earnings. Let‘s analyze the finances behind their blockbuster tours.

On their record-setting 2005-2007 "A Bigger Bang" tour, the band grossed a staggering $558 million . With 144 shows across Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East, that equals over $3.8 million per performance!

But the band‘s cut was far less – approximately $41 million each when split four ways. Subtracting production costs like staging, lighting and payroll, the Stones may have actually pocketed around $10 million per member. Still a massive payday but nowhere near their total gross.

In more recent years, the Stones have commanded even higher nightly payouts but with less shows. On their 2016 South America tour, Forbes estimated they grossed $7.5 million per appearance . Let‘s break that down further:

Average Tickets Sold: 45,000
Average Ticket Price: $200
Total Gross Per Show: $9 million
Less Operating Expenses: $1.5 million
Net Per Show: $7.5 million
Split 4 Ways = $1.875 million each per show

Thanks to their elite status and production efficiencies, the Stones keep a bigger slice of gross concert income today. But putting on massive tours remains an expensive undertaking before profits.

Just How Much Does It Cost to Tour?

From transportation to staging to salaries, tours cost big bucks to mount:

Staging – $500k-$1 million+ for custom sets, props and screens
Lighting – $250k+ for complex rock lighting rigs
Sound – $100k+ for speaker systems, mixing consoles
Video – $50k+ for LED screens, projection
Pyrotechnics – $25k+ per show
Insurance – $500k+ for multi-month tours
Roadie Crew – $10k+ per show for setup/teardown
Tour Managers – $5k+ per week
Buses – $1k+ per week
Hotels – $1k+ per night

It all adds up fast! No wonder even the biggest grossing tours don‘t equate to rock star level earnings per show for the artists alone. Production expenses claim a huge portion of the income.

Promoters also take a typical 20% cut of gross receipts. So at least $1 million off a $5 million gross goes to them. Venues earn income from concessions, parking and sometimes rent too. There are lots of hands in the pot before the band members get paid.

How Much Do Rock Stars Pay Their Crews?

Rock stars wouldn‘t make money without the touring personnel that support them:

Tour Manager – $3k-$5k weekly
Production Manager – $2.5k-$4k weekly
Stage Manager – $1.5k-$2.5k weekly
Lighting Director – $1.5k-$2.5k weekly
guitar/drum techs – $500-$1000 weekly
Bus Driver – $500-$1000 weekly
Catering – $25k+ for multi-month tours

Some long-time crew like production managers may earn points or bonuses too. For major tours, total crew salaries can easily exceed $750k+ when accounting for benefits like per diems and hotels.

Top billed rock stars may also bring personal assistants, chefs, and other staff on the road. And backing musicians get weekly pay with their own support teams.

How Long Does it Take Rock Bands to Profit on Tour?

Tours often don‘t become profitable for weeks or months as shows gradually pay back upfront costs:

Rehearsals – 4-6 weeks pre-tour, facility rental and gear
Advance payroll – deposits for buses, crew, venues
Insurance – securing full tour liability
Stage build – fabrication and transport
Lighting/video design – programming visuals

Bands need funding to front these big expenses before collecting ticket revenue. Touring budgets range from $500k for club bands to $50 million for huge global tours.

Profitable shows early on may just be recovering costs. Only after fixed expenses are covered do leftover proceeds go to the band members. Rock stars need patience and business savvy to earn long-term dividends from live shows.

How Much Do Support Acts Make?

The main headliners aren‘t the only ones making money each show. Support acts earn important income as openers:

For developing bands, landing a major tour support slot is a big opportunity despite lower pay. The exposure can elevate them to headliner status eventually. But the rock stars down the bill need to hustle as well!

Legendary Rockers Get Paid More Per Show Today Than Ever

Thanks to their unmatched catalogs and elder statesmen status, rock superstars now earn bigger concert payouts than ever before:

Thanks to ticket inflation and their enduring cultural value, vintage rockers make 10X more nowadays. Fans see their songs as timeless despite age.

And beyond music, baby boomers now have more wealth to spend on revisiting youth memories. VIP upgrades make shows hugely profitable. The rock legends laughing all the way to the bank have the last laugh on cynics who dismissed them as past their prime decades ago!

Will Future Rock Bands Earn Mega Concert Paydays?

Can any current rock group ever tour for as long and profitably as The Rolling Stones or U2? The music industry keeps evolving, making predictions tricky.

Streaming has become the revenue focus shifting from albums and ticket sales. Younger fans consume differently, with shorter attention spans. Future iconic bands may not sustain touring clout for 40-50 years.

But music is cyclical. The huge live shows and profits of today‘s hip hop or pop stars may fade as well. If rock makes a generational comeback, we could see another act achieve the long-term earning power of these legends.

For now, longtime rock fans should catch the biggest names while they can still perform. Their days commanding such astronomical concert payouts are numbered. But their musical legacies will live on forever.

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The Way We Used To Be

The first new song from Journey in 10 years. Listen as the classic band roars back to form.

A soaring, modern album of 12 original songs. "This is Journey with combat boots on."

11 re-recorded classics in union with 11 new, hard-hitting tracks. Find your revelation.

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Lead vocals, 2024 freedom tour merch, platinum logo 50th anniversary zip hoodie, gold logo 50th anniversary zip hoodie, black/grey elmo raglan, 2024 green tie dye infinity wings tee, ladies infinity tee - black, ladies infinity tee - mauve, 50th anniversary trucker hat, 2024 soar trucker hat, 50th anniversary snapback hat, 50th anniversary bronze scarab tote, 50th anniversary bronze scarab koozie, journey’s “don’t stop believin’” recognized by forbes as officially the biggest song of all time.

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Following its initial release in 1981, Escape hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200...

JOURNEY Among 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2022' Performers

JOURNEY will perform from New York City's Times Square for "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2022 " . This year marks the 50th anniversary of America's go-to annual New Year's tradition that celebrates the year's very best in music.

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How Much Do Tribute Bands Make: Tribute Act Overview

How Much Do Tribute Bands Make?

- The earnings of tribute bands can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per show, depending on factors such as the popularity of the original band, the quality of the tribute, and the venue size. Top tribute bands can earn in the high six figures annually.

What is a Tribute Band?

Are tribute bands legal.

How Do Tribute Bands Make Money?

What Type of Venues Do Tribute Bands Play In?

Who are some of the most popular tribute bands, are tribute bands worth it.

Have you ever found yourself driving past a local venue, noticing excited fans lining up for tickets, only to spot a slightly tweaked name of a familiar band on the marquee and then remember, that band isn't even on tour!? It's probably not the original rock legends they're queuing up to see, but rather, a tribute band, recreating the glory days of their music icons.

Tribute bands have become a popular alternative for fans who crave the experience of seeing their favorite bands live, even long after they have disbanded or retired. If you're a gigging musician, you've likely wondered if you could pull off such an act. And then, of course, you've probably also wondered... How much do these bands make for their impersonations? How does their paycheck compare to the cover or original band I play in? In this article, we'll take a backstage tour of tribute bands, exploring everything from practicalities, legalities, to the million-dollar question about the financial side of impersonating a rock legend.

A tribute band is a group of musicians who specifically aim to recreate and emulate the music, appearance, and overall vibe of a famous, often iconic, band. Unlike cover bands, which perform songs from various artists, tribute bands dedicate their entire act to a single band or artist. They strive for authenticity in every aspect, from the way they dress to the way they perform on stage, mirroring the mannerisms, vocal styles, and musical techniques of the original musicians.

Such devotion to a single act can be seen as a form of flattery or a way to keep the music and spirit of the original band alive, especially if they are no longer performing. It's also a way for fans of the original band to enjoy their music in a live setting. Tribute bands span all genres, eras, and artists, from classic rock legends like The Beatles or Led Zeppelin to pop icons like Michael Jackson or ABBA.

In general, tribute bands are perfectly legal. The performance of a song in a live venue typically falls under the venue's public performance rights, which they secure from Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. These rights allow songs to be performed live in public by any artist.

However, this does not mean that tribute bands have carte blanche to do as they wish. They cannot claim the original music as their own or record and sell the music without obtaining the proper licensing, known as a mechanical license, from the copyright holder. Misrepresentation can also be an issue; it's essential that tribute bands clearly identify themselves as tribute acts to avoid misleading fans into thinking they are the actual artist.

Do you need permission to be a tribute band?

Being a tribute band doesn't require explicit permission from the original artist or band, as long as they adhere to copyright laws. However, tribute bands need to ensure they are clear in their marketing and promotion that they are a tribute act, and not trying to pass off as the original band. This is not only ethically right, but also important to avoid potential legal action for false representation.

When it comes to recording and selling covers of songs, tribute bands need to obtain a mechanical license. The same rule applies if they wish to release live recordings of their performances. Licensing agencies like Harry Fox Agency in the US can help bands secure these rights.

Do You Need Permission to Cover a Song?

Yes, an individual can sing a copyrighted song. When it comes to live performances, the responsibility of securing public performance licenses typically falls on the venue, not the performer. These licenses, obtained from PROs, cover the performance of any song in their repertoire, which comprises millions of songs.

However, if the performer wants to record and distribute their version of a copyrighted song (in video or audio format), they need to obtain a mechanical license. It's important to understand the legalities of performing copyrighted material to avoid infringing copyright laws.

Can You Get Sued for Covering Someone Else's Music?

In general, simply covering a song live in a venue that holds a public performance license from a PRO won't get you sued. However, recording, distributing, or selling your cover without obtaining a mechanical license can lead to copyright infringement, which can result in legal action.

To avoid legal trouble, musicians should always ensure they have the necessary permissions and licenses before recording or distributing covers. It's also a good practice to give credit to the original artists when performing their songs. Tribute bands are often going to pretty great lengths to imitate and pay homage to the original band, so this is rarely an issue.

How Do Bands Make Money?

In the internet-driven 21st-century music industry, there are countless ways to boost their earnings, regardless of whether you're playing originals or covers. But before we dive into the financials of a tribute band, let's first take a step back and recap how bands make money in general. Many of these revenue sources apply to tribute bands as well, while others strictly do not.

Digital platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp have stepped in to fill the gap left by the decline of physical album sales, offering new revenue streams to artists by paying them per stream - a sum that can rapidly increase for hit tracks. But this doesn't apply to cover or tribute bands since the music they play is not there own. As we mentioned in the previous section, playing someone else's music live is fine, but recording it for resale requires specific licensing and permission. Other lucrative opportunities that only apply to original artists exist in licensing music for use in commercials, films, or TV shows.

Cover and tribute bands can however, significantly bolster their income through merchandising , whether that's selling band-branded items like t-shirts, posters, and hats, at shows or online. They can also generate income via sponsorships and brand partnerships, especially for bands that have a large fan base.

But the most significant source of income for bands that perform covers is through live performances. Concerts, tours, festivals, bars, restaurants and private parties, provide bands with the opportunity to earn by performing. Bands playing a variety of covers and occasionally some originals, usually get paid a flat fee from venues that are leveraging them as entertainment to attract larger crowds, while tribute bands and established original artists typically earn from ticket sales. Either way, people love live music. The allure of this experience is why venues consistently seek out bands, including cover bands and tribute bands, to perform.

Tribute bands have become a popular alternative for fans who crave the experience of seeing their favorite bands live, even long after they have disbanded or retired. These bands meticulously recreate the look, sound, and performance of the original artist, providing an exceptional copycat tribute experience. They are in essence a cover band that only covers 1 well-known, highly sought after band. These tribute bands are often in high demand, which begs the question: how much do tribute bands make? The earnings of tribute bands can vary greatly depending on several factors. One significant factor is the popularity and fame of the original artist being paid tribute to. Bands that pay homage to legendary names such as The Beatles, Queen, or Elvis Presley tend to command higher fees due to the immense appeal of these iconic acts. Similarly, the demand for a particular tribute band can also affect their earnings. If the band is highly sought after and regularly booked for gigs at reputable venues, their earning potential will naturally increase. Additionally, tribute bands that have a strong online presence and a dedicated following tend to attract larger crowds, leading to higher ticket sales and ultimately more revenue.

Crunching The Numbers: Estimating Tribute Band Earnings

There are so many different factors impacting how much a band can charge, making it difficult to give precise numbers. But we can provide some ballpark figures that apply to many of these bands. Cover bands that aren't tribute bands typically have a lower price point with opportunity and demand, and are easier to estimate. These bands generally earn between $500 to $2000 per show at local bars and clubs, and $1000 to $3500 at festivals and private events. At the lower end are bands that are new to the scene and just starting out. At the higher end, bands often have a well-established reputation, a larger fan base, or a unique highly talented skillset, leading to higher earnings. It is possible to make more than this if you're extremely well-known, or on special high demand occasions, like New Years Eve. And keep in mind I am referring to a common 3 to 5 piece electric band, not larger ensembles like big bands, brass bands, or orchestras, which come in at a much higher price point. As a general rule of thumb, tribute bands make about twice this amount. With new acts starting around $1000 per show, up to approximately $9000 for really well-known acts covering popular groups like The Beatles or Queen. The exact figure depends on the popularity of the band they're paying tribute to, the demand for their music, as well as the quality of the tribute band's performance and resemblance to the original band.

Tribute Band Cost And Ticket Prices

Ticket prices for tribute band performances can also vary based on factors like venue size, location, and the level of production involved. Larger venues with higher capacity tend to charge higher ticket prices, allowing tribute bands to negotiate better fees. Furthermore, tribute bands that invest in top-notch audiovisual equipment, lighting, and special effects can enhance their stage performances, allowing them to demand higher ticket prices to offset these production costs. However, it's crucial to note that tribute bands also face expenses that can significantly impact their earnings. These expenses include rehearsal space rental, the costs associated with sound equipment and instruments, marketing and promotion, travel and accommodation, and the salaries of band members and supporting crew. Balancing these expenses with the revenue generated from gigs can be challenging, especially for tribute bands starting in the industry.

Tribute bands can perform in a variety of venues, including bars, restaurants, clubs, private events, festivals, theaters, and even large-scale arenas. The type of venue often depends on the popularity of the tribute band, the demand for the music of the band they're paying tribute to, and the location.

Bars and restaurants often hire cover bands to entertain patrons and draw in more customers. These venues usually look for bands that play a wide variety of popular music. However, some might hire tribute bands if they cater to a specific audience or if the tribute band has a large local following.

Clubs, theaters, and larger venues are more likely to hire tribute bands. These venues often sell tickets to the performance, and a tribute band's ability to replicate a famous act can be a big draw. Tribute bands that focus on hugely popular acts, such as Queen or The Beatles, can often fill larger venues, capitalizing on the enduring appeal of these iconic bands.

Festivals also present opportunities for tribute bands. Music festivals often have diverse lineups to attract a broad audience, and a tribute band can be an appealing addition. Private events, like corporate functions or weddings, may also hire tribute bands, especially if the hosts or guests are big fans of the band being impersonated.

Tribute bands breathe new life into the timeless music of renowned artists. And the sheer number of great musicians over the years has resulted in an abundance of tribute acts. Below is a list of ten tribute bands making a notable impact. But even if your favorite band isn't represented, a little digging is likely to uncover a tribute act dedicated to them.

Bohemian Queen : An LA-based tribute to Queen, renowned for their high-caliber musicianship and frontman Paulie Z's incredible ability to channel Freddie Mercury. Despite being relatively new, the band has already made waves across the U.S, selling out theaters with their impeccably accurate tribute to Queen.
Michael Jackson One : A tribute show by Cirque du Soleil, Michael Jackson One showcases an unparalleled blend of live performance, glitz, and glam, delivering an experience fitting for the King of Pop's legacy.
E5C4P3 : Paying homage to Journey, this band features the distinctive vocals of Jason Kelty, a remarkable Steve Perry impersonator. Their dedication and high-quality performances have kept them in demand since their inception in 1993.
Nervana : This Nirvana tribute band, led by Irish singer Jon O’Connor, has earned a reputable status among tribute bands. Despite developing original music under the name Freaks Like Me, they continue to honor the iconic grunge group.
Britain's Finest : This California-based tribute to the Beatles focuses on the band's early years, replicating their classic bowl haircuts and charismatic stage presence. The band's performances have reached international audiences, covering all of The Beatles' greatest hits.
The Rocket Queens : This all-female Guns ‘n’ Roses tribute band captures the spirit of the band's early stadium-filling rock days. Their performances focus solely on the "Appetite for Destruction" album, a fan-favorite.
Zep-LA : This Led Zeppelin tribute band consists of industry veterans who reproduce both popular hits and deep cuts with remarkable accuracy. Members of Zep-LA have a rich musical pedigree, having worked with rock legends such as Poison and KISS.
Purple Reign : Paying tribute to the unparalleled artist Prince, Purple Reign delivers a performance full of fun and interactivity, successfully embodying the magic of Prince's live shows.
Dark Star Orchestra : Known to Grateful Dead fans as DSO, this tribute band meticulously recreates entire Grateful Dead shows, reflecting their love for touring and attention to intricate details.
Enrage Against The Machine : The least known tribute band on this list, yet has to be mentioned for their tribute performances to the revolutionary rock band Rage Against the Machine. Enrage stands out due to an impressive ability to not only emulate the unique sound of the original band, but their high-energy performances as well.

Tribute bands can strike a lucrative chord in the music industry, while also benefiting fans, venues, and musicians alike. They create unforgettable experiences for fans who crave the music of iconic bands that are sometimes no longer in action, while also providing a financially rewarding opportunity for musicians. Some surveys even suggest that many fans enjoy seeing a good cover band MORE than the original artist . They are more than just a cheap imitation, they are often highly skilled musicians and performers, paying homage to the enduring legacy of music legends. Tribute bands have proven to be a valuable asset in the history of the music industry.

If you're already in a tribute band or thinking about starting one, we'd love to hear about it! Drop a comment below about your act, and we may even mention them in this article. Band Pioneer exists to assist independent musicians, with marketing resources , advice , even AI tools , we're here to help you turn your passion into something lucrative and meaningful.

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My 5 Stages of Retirement

Or, how i learned to stop worrying and love retired life.

Katherine Skiba,

Here’s a dirty little secret: At age 67, I joined a garden club.

Not long ago, the idea of secluding myself in a church hall with a bunch of silver-haired dowagers who insist on proper botanical nomenclature (genus and species) would have been unthinkable.

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Not me. Not the hard-charging journalist who chased tough stories from tornadoes to triple murders to terror attacks.

Yet here I am, squirming in a folding chair as a lecturer drones on about how to grow unusual herbs for French culinary sauces I will never make.

How did I get here?

Two years ago, I retired. With a nudge from a neighbor, I joined the club to grow my skills as a floral designer. I had no interest in making a killer béarnaise, but I wanted to branch out, so to speak. (And shame on me, a bottle blond, for throwing shade on the club’s gray-heads.)

On April Fools’ Day, 2022 — no joke — I retired from AARP. My work as a writer and editor here focused on elder fraud , and I was gratified to help victims and alert others to this unconscionable scourge. I also wrote about Alzheimer’s research , centenarians and the catastrophic toll on older Americans of Northern California's Camp Fire , among other stories.

After four adrenalin-fueled decades of news reporting, my years at AARP were a cool-down phase. I was no longer on call 24/7. Even better, working for a nonprofit representing 38 million fellow older Americans proved a master class in retirement. I was in “pretirement” when I started, and I learned from the experts I interviewed and from those colleagues I spoke to for their stories about health , fitness , personal finance — you name it.

At a staff gathering six months into the job, I heard a talk on how to live to be 100 . Among the speaker’s exhortations: Have a “playful, joyful retirement.”

Right afterward, I got a call from my oldest brother announcing that he was retiring. In light of our roll-up-your-sleeves upbringing, I was stunned. But I parroted the lecturer, wishing my sibling a playful, joyful retirement.

Thus, the seed was planted.

No poster child

Let me be clear that I am not an AARP-sanctioned poster child for retirement. No such person exists. AARP aims to empower people to choose how they live as they age. As we approach the off-ramp of our working years, our health, family and finances may be radically different from the next person’s. Everyone’s retirement is theirs alone.

I chose April 1 to call it quits for two reasons: I would never forget the date, and, mischievously, I wanted one last laugh as I bade farewell to the 9-to-5, the cubicle farm, the deadlines and the annual performance reviews (which, as a mature professional, I had come to loathe).

My finances seemed on solid footing. I had a modest newspaper pension and could rely on my husband’s paycheck. I would take a buzz saw to household spending , put off Social Security and not touch our nest egg.

When D-Day (Departure Day) rolled around, I laughed, cried, listened to tributes and gave what my colleagues called a funny speech. I was happier than an inmate being sprung from the big house. I would be out of the office — forever — and freed from the shackles of full-time toil. I’d worked since childhood, first at my family’s long-running restaurant outside Chicago and later in retail and for the U.S. Postal Service, among other places.

Ah, hubris. In the months to come I would learn that, much like other important endeavors — grieving, staying married, shaving my legs — there are stages to retirement. These were mine.

Stage 1: Euphoria

I had won the lottery. Every morning I could ignore the alarm my husband set and do whatever I wanted. My life seemed ripped from the script of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off .

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Freedom tasted sweeter than it looked on paper — and trust me, I had read a lot about retirement. The authors of Happy Retirement: The Psychology of Reinvention ask whether you regard retirement as a time to explore new horizons, put up your feet, search for meaning or contribute on your own terms. I was warm to R&R and new places.

With stress evaporating with each day, I got serious about a diet, ratcheted up my exercise regimen and shed 25 pounds. I was high on my hard-earned freedom and could fit into my old jeans. But honeymoons, history shows, don’t last forever.

Stage 2: Shock and awe

Timing is everything. Mine stunk. The stock market plunged in 2022 — as did my confidence — and the country was gripped by the worst inflation in 40 years . Who was the April fool now?

I retired at age 65½. The Social Security Administration’s life expectancy calculator says on average, a woman my age will live to 87. But my ancestors lived into their 90s, so I wanted a nest egg that was bulletproof.

I shifted some assets into higher-yield investments, eliminated frills, clipped coupons, hunted for bargains and harangued merchants for “senior citizen” discounts (the only time I use that term). Taxes were taking a bite out of my pension , which covered Medicare expenses but didn’t stretch far after that.

I lamented both the loss of my paycheck and the camaraderie of my “work family.” Then I remembered reading about people who “unretire” and go back to the proverbial rock pile after imagining they’d never pick up a sledgehammer again.

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As I had for years, I scoured job listings, but now each opening seemed tailor-made for the Energizer Bunny. I was growing accustomed to what the Italians call il dolce far niente , the sweetness of doing nothing.

Taking even a part-time job seemed as desirable as eating glass, so I doubled down on freelance writing.

Stage 3: The reality of gig work

Though the topics were engaging, churning out freelance stories felt like a deal with the devil. I could not shake my driven, perfectionist tendencies, so I put in too many hours from the solitary confinement of my home office. The state, federal and self-employment taxes whittling away at my measly earnings made me want to weep.

Even worse was the heckling of friends with a few years of retirement under their belts. “When are you going to really retire?” they’d sneer.

I thought I would ace retirement, but the economic downturn was raining buckets on my parade. I felt like a failure.

Stage 4: Retirement 2.0

Once economic conditions brightened, I cut back on freelancing to give retirement a real chance — and get my friends to shut up.

That left me time to swim, refinish furniture, reupholster chairs, paint our fireplaces, entertain houseguests, bake, tame my garden and take my late-in-life passion for flower arranging to the next level. Some attempts to rekindle my softer side belly-flopped. True confession: The sewing machine I bought myself as a retirement gift is gathering dust.

When not immersed in DIY mania, I might luxuriate with a good book. I have learned to love naps. And I’m in the early stages of “Swedish death cleaning,” the art of decluttering your home to ease the burden on your loved ones after you’ve gone. I have chucked an abandoned book project and boxes of yellowed newspaper clips and story printouts. It’s a way to make room for new endeavors in my garage (rechristened “my studio”) and in my life.

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Stage 5: The bucket-list trip

I dislike the concept of a bucket list. Maybe because I don’t want to come off as gluttonous or tempt fate. Zip-lining, swimming with sharks, sticking my head into the mouth of a ravenous lion? No need.

I figured if I had one, and only one, thing I desired to do before the end, my odds of success would climb. My only wish was to visit all seven continents. Once I’d touched down in South America and Antarctica, I would step onto the winner’s podium.

So, when I eyeballed a bargain fare on a reputable cruise line for an excursion to Antarctica via Argentina, my husband and I went for it.

The endless oceans, majestic, snow-draped mountains and Windex-blue icebergs that mark this vast wilderness blew our minds. We breathed in the freshest air we’ve ever inhaled. We hiked, kayaked and heard lectures on the golden age of Antarctic exploration. We befriended the expedition guides (one a woman who had summited the highest peak on each continent) and dined with these raconteurs and other happy bucket listers aboard ship. Now this was retirement.

Of course I did the polar plunge. Why not? Hours of nerves and 30 seconds in 28-degree water equal a lifetime of bragging rights.

The trip taught me two things: Sometimes I need to let my heart be my compass. And for the rest of my days, I don’t need to see another penguin.

Everybody has retirement advice

As I enter year three of retirement, I know that my fellow retirees are spoon-fed more advice than teens, college interns and expectant parents. Some of the one-size-fits-all counsel struck me as dumb.

You’ll be bored in three weeks.

You need to accomplish at least three things a day.

You should take up pickleball .

Let’s take them one by one.

Boredom. It’s preposterous to think any journalist worth their salt would find nothing to do, see, read, try or explore.

Three things a day. To me, that would be phoning it in.

Pickleball. I’m game but haven’t gone there. Yet.

My advice? Dust off old passions and try new things. Follow the example of smart retirees you know. Brace yourself for requests that you work for free. Set boundaries. After a lifetime of being told what to do (and getting paid for it), remember that “No” is a complete sentence.

It’s your life. Your retirement. Your time. And time, sweet time, always goes by.

Katherine Skiba is a contributor for AARP. She has reported for the Chicago Tribune, U.S. News & World Report and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel , and is the author of a wartime memoir, Sister in the Band of Brothers: Embedded With the 101st Airborne in Iraq.

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Journey Lineup Changes: A Complete Guide
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VAN HALEN, RUSH, JOURNEY Make BILLBOARD's 'Music's Top 40 Money Makers' List

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Steve Perry Is Still Making Millions From Journey, Even Though He Quit The Band In 1998

Steve Perry Helped Make Journey Famous With Hits Like "Don't Stop Believin'"

Steve Perry Left Journey In 1998, But He Didn't Leave Empty-Handed

Steve Perry Is Worth $70 Million Today, And Makes Multiple Millions Per Year

How Much Arnel Pineda Is Really Worth

Arnel Pineda never stopped believing, and now he's loaded

Journey - revenue 2018

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Journey’s 10 Best Songs

"Someday Soon" ( Departure , 1980)

"Escape" ( Escape , 1981)

"Of a Lifetime" ( Journey , 1975)

"Faithfully" (Frontiers , 1983)

"Ask the Lonely" (single, 1983)

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

"Feeling That Way" ( Infinity , 1978)

"Just the Same Way" ( Evolution , 1979)

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

"Stone in Love" ( Escape , 1981)

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