The band “Journey” started in San Francisco in 1973 when former Santana members Neal Schon and Gregg Rolie joined forces with Ross Valory and George Tickner.
The group found its most successful sound after Steve Perry became their lead singer in 1977. Their music mixed rock and roll with strong melodies and meaningful lyrics.
In the late 1970s and 1980s, they created many popular songs that people still know today, like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Open Arms.” The band has sold over 75 million records worldwide, showing how its music connects with listeners.
Though members have changed over time, they keep making music and performing shows for their fans.
About The Song
Steve Perry wrote the song “Don’t Stop Believing” with Neal Schon in 1981 for their band Journey.
Perry got the idea late one night after seeing people wait in clubs until closing time. He noticed how these folks kept their hopes up despite their daily struggles.
The band worked on making the music strong yet simple, focusing on a message about not giving up. The song took time to catch on but eventually became one of their best-known tunes.
| DETAIL | INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| RELEASE DATE | October 19, 1981 |
| ALBUM | Escape |
| WRITERS | Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain |
| PRODUCERS | Kevin Elson, Mike “Clay” Stone |
Don’t Stop Believing Lyrics By Journey
Verse 1
Just a small-town girl, livin’ in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
Verse 2
A singer in a smoky room
The smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile, they can share the night
It goes on and on and on and on
Chorus
Strangers waitin’
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searchin’ in the night
Streetlights, people
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night
Verse 3
Workin’ hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Verse 4
Some will win, some will lose
Some are born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on and on and on
Chorus
Strangers waitin’
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searchin’ in the night
Streetlights, people
Livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night
[Guitar Solo]
Outro
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlights, people
For a visual and auditory experience, you can watch the official music video below:
Similar Songs Like Don’t Stop Believing By Journey
- Separate Ways (Worlds Apart): Both songs share similar themes of perseverance. Both songs use strong keyboard openings and build to powerful choruses. They tell stories of people who face life changes with determination.
- Anyway, You Want It: Like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” this song has a fast tempo and upbeat feel. Both tracks use catchy guitar riffs and highlight Steve Perry’s high-pitched vocals. The lyrics focus on positive messages.
- Faithfully: While slower paced, it matches “Don’t Stop Believin'” in emotional depth. Both songs tell stories about regular people facing life’s challenges. The piano plays a key role in both tracks.
- Wheel in the Sky: Both songs talk about life’s ongoing movement and change. They share strong opening instrumental parts and build tension throughout. The storytelling style is similar.
- Open Arms: The emotional vocals and piano backing connect these songs. Both became crowd favorites and showcase the band’s skill with memorable melodies.
- Lights: Both songs paint pictures of city life. They share similar song structures and highlight Perry’s voice range. The keyboard work is central to both tracks.
- Who’s Crying Now?: The storytelling approach links these songs. Both use a mix of keyboard and guitar to build feeling. They share the band’s signature sound combining rock with softer elements.
- Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’: This song shares the emotional storytelling style. Both tracks build from quiet moments to strong choruses. They use similar vocal patterns.
- Be Good to Yourself: Both songs carry messages of hope. They share upbeat tempos and encouraging lyrics. The musical structure follows similar patterns.
- Stone in Love: Like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” opens with strong guitar work. Both songs tell stories about young people and their experiences. They share similar rock energy and vocal style.
These songs are some of Journey’s most iconic hits, showcasing their signature rock style, emotional ballads, and captivating melodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did Journey Write “Don’t Stop Believin”?
Steve Perry wrote the song after watching people in clubs late at night. He saw how they held onto their hopes despite daily struggles. This inspired him to write about keeping faith in tough times.
Why Is The Song “Don’t Stop Believin” So Popular?
The song combines catchy music with a hopeful message that speaks to many people. TV shows like The Sopranos and Glee introduced it to new audiences. Its simple lyrics about holding onto hope make it relatable across generations.
Who Sang The Original Don’t Stop Believing?
Steve Perry sang the original version with Journey when they released it in 1981.
Is Don’t Stop Believing The Biggest Song Of All Time?
No, but it’s one of the most successful rock songs ever. It became the best-selling digital track from the 20th century, with over 7 million digital copies sold. The song reached new heights of popularity in the late 2000s.
