In a candid interview, iconic guitarist Neal Schon recently opened up about the multifaceted future of the legendary rock band Journey, particularly in light of their impending 'Final Frontier' farewell tour. Schon, the sole consistent member of Journey throughout its five-decade history, shared his perspectives on the tour's genesis, the evolving dynamics within the band, his personal musical ambitions beyond Journey, and even touched upon the long-desired potential reunion with former lead singer Steve Perry. His remarks paint a picture of an artist deeply committed to his craft, eager to explore new creative avenues while honoring the band's rich legacy.
Journey's enduring journey has been marked by numerous personnel changes since its formation in 1973 by Schon himself, shortly after his departure from Santana. From the early days with Gregg Rolie to the soaring success with Steve Perry in the 1980s, and the subsequent challenges and revitalizations—including a notable comeback fueled by appearances in popular culture and the arrival of current vocalist Arnel Pineda—Schon has consistently steered the ship. The upcoming 'Final Frontier' tour, set to commence in February in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is poised to be a significant milestone, spanning two years and encompassing approximately 120 performances. While keyboardist Jonathan Cain has indicated his intention to retire post-tour, Schon has firmly stated his lack of similar plans, emphasizing his continuous dedication to the band's spirit.
During a recent conversation, Schon delved into the intricacies of the farewell tour and what it signifies for the band and its members. He clarified that the tour's "farewell" aspect largely stems from Cain's decision, asserting that for him, the "Journey torch" will always burn brightly. Schon expressed his readiness for musical evolution, hinting that the band's future incarnation might bear a different name, potentially reflecting his concept of "Journey Beyond." This new direction aims to introduce a fresh, more improvisational flair to their performances, moving away from a rigid setlist and incorporating more jams and extended musical explorations. He envisioned a tour that would celebrate Journey's vast catalog, delving into songs not performed in decades while still delivering the beloved anthems, all supported by enhanced production and a powerful sound system.
The extensive nature of the tour, comprising two full sets with an intermission and no opening act, is designed to offer fans an immersive experience. Schon acknowledged the potential strain on Arnel Pineda's voice but expressed confidence in the vocal capabilities of other band members, including Jason Derlatka and Deen Castronovo, who could provide relief. He stressed the band's commitment to performing in their original keys, a testament to their dedication despite the vocal demands. Discussing the ongoing dynamic with Jonathan Cain, Schon expressed a desire to move past previous legal disputes and focus on their shared musical purpose, highlighting that their on-stage chemistry remains paramount. The guitarist also revealed his continued hope for a reconciliation with Steve Perry, stating that "the door is always open" for Perry to join them on stage, even for a brief appearance.
Beyond Journey, Schon is brimming with creative ideas. He's been actively writing and recording new material, constantly honing his craft. The concept of "Journey Beyond," prominently featured on his social media, represents his vision for future musical endeavors—a new project that builds upon the foundation of Journey but ventures into uncharted territory. He also shared his long-standing plan to write a memoir, detailing his remarkable life and career, from his early days playing with B.B. King to the complexities of Journey's internal dynamics. Schon intends for this memoir to be a comprehensive account, released when he feels his life's work is complete, or posthumously. This reflects his enduring passion for music and his belief that his creative journey is far from over.
Neal Schon is clearly poised for a dynamic future, whether continuing with a re-envisioned Journey or embarking on new musical projects. His unwavering dedication to his art, his openness to innovation, and his desire to connect with fans through evolving musical experiences suggest that the "Final Frontier" tour will indeed be a celebration, but not an end, to his remarkable musical voyage.