Journey reveals new lineup with ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ performance
By tsell on May 27, 2020
The new lineup performed ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ during Unicef: We Won’t Stop
By Trent Sell
Journey released news about the band’s newest members with a socially distanced performance of their 1981 hit “Don’t Stop Believing.” The performance was during the Unicef: We Won’ t Stop fundraising event on May 23.
New lineup
The band brought on three new members after firing bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith earlier this year. The new lineup includes former band member and bass player Randy Jackson, drummer Narada Michael Walden, and keyboardist Jason Derlatka. Together with guitarist Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain on Keys, and lead singer Arnel Pineda, the six-piece band played this Journey hit with ease.
Orginal member Neal Schon and later joined keyboardist Jonathan Cain, recently filed a lawsuit against ex-members Ross Valory and Steve Smith. The court documents accused Valory and Smith of “ill-conceived corporate coup d’etat” with the intention to gain full control of the band’s name. Now, Valory has issued a counterclaim against Schon and Cain. Valory is charging them with breach of contract and emotional distress, seeking “past and future compensatory damages.”
Randy Jackson was Journey’s bassist from 1985 – 1987. The American Idol judge played on the band’s 1986 LP “Raised on Radio.” Now he is back for more bringing his steady basslines to Journey’s lineup.
Drummer Michael Waldon will fill Smith’s spot, bringing his talented resume and experience with him. He played with Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jeff Beck, Robert Fripp, and Tommy Bolin.
Jason Derlatka is a composer, writing music for Emmy-nominated shows like The Resident, Goliath, Perfect Harmony, House MD, and Parenthood. He is no stranger to Journey’s music, as he accompanied Schon and Cain for the Nashville benefit show in November.
Schon responded to a fan’s comment about the news.
“Couldn’t agree more. This is a completely new chapter for us and can’t wait to get to it! Journey is an ever-changing unstoppable force.”
Despite playing live from their respective homes, the band was synced up and delivered a sweet performance. Watch the full video here.
