Jonathan Cain Confirms Exit From Journey After Years of Tension

Jonathan Cain is preparing to say goodbye to Journey after over four decades with the iconic rock band. Cain’s departure will follow one last tour, wrapping up a musical partnership that began with Journey’s 1981 breakthrough album Escape, which sold over 10 million copies in the U.S.

Cain and guitarist Neal Schon, the last original member of the group, confirmed the news after years of behind-the-scenes conflict. Schon took to social media, announcing:

“Jonathan Cain announced his farewell to Journey tonight… I’m nowhere near done!”

However, Cain isn’t leaving immediately. Schon later clarified:

“Jon is still playing. He said he’ll move on after 2026 or 2027. We’ve got a great couple of years ahead.”

Cain’s team echoed that message, stating:

“Jonathan Cain remains an active member of Journey and is committed to touring with the band for the next few years. Any claims suggesting otherwise are inaccurate.”

What Comes After Journey for Cain?

While Journey plans to continue touring, Cain is turning his focus toward a solo career and his work in Christian music. He recently released a promotional video for his new faith-based single, “No One Else,” dedicated to late activist Charlie Kirk.

Cain told the Strang Report podcast that he’s working on a new EP expected by the end of the year. He also confirmed the band will hit the road in 2026 for what will be his final tour with them. “It’ll be my farewell tour with Journey,” he said. “I feel called to focus on my ministry.”

Cain’s Legacy With Journey

Cain played a critical role in shaping Journey’s biggest hits. He co-wrote classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Faithfully,” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).” His songwriting helped drive albums like 1983’s Frontiers, 1986’s Raised on Radio, and 1996’s Trial by Fire to multi-platinum success. Journey’s most recent studio album, Freedom, came out in 2022.

Despite his creative contributions, Cain’s relationship with Schon grew increasingly tense in recent years, sometimes spilling into legal disputes. It’s still unknown who will eventually replace him in the band. Schon remains optimistic, promising more touring and new music:

“Journey has a lot more life ahead!”

Cain’s Background Before Journey

Before joining Journey in 1980, Cain had already built a musical résumé. He survived a tragic school fire in 1958 and later studied at the Chicago Conservatory of Music. His early career included a minor hit and a performance on American Bandstand. After some setbacks, he rediscovered his passion for music through songwriting, which led him to join the Babys — a band that toured with Journey and eventually opened the door to his role in the group.

Cain adopted his now-famous name from a sign he saw in Los Angeles, and despite early career challenges, his perseverance paid off. His melodic songwriting style resonated with audiences and helped define Journey’s sound throughout the 1980s and beyond.

Reflections on a Storied Career

Cain’s arrival in Journey was a turning point for the band. Former member Gregg Rolie once said:

“If Jonathan Cain hadn’t replaced me, I don’t think Journey would have accomplished half of what they did.”

Over the years, Cain’s songs have captured the hopes, struggles, and emotions of countless fans. Reflecting on his career, he told UCR, “I’m most proud of my songwriting and the relationship I had with Steve Perry and Neal. We created songs that still matter today — that’s incredibly humbling.”

Despite a history of disagreements with Schon, Cain continued to tour with Journey through the years. His faith has remained a guiding force, especially in recent years.

“When you overcome tragedy, it changes you,” Cain once said. “That’s when God often shows up — and miracles can happen.”