Journey Makes Fans Crazy With Lyric Change At NFL Game

Journey took the stage during the halftime show of the NFC championship game on January 28, where they performed a set of four songs. The game featured the Detroit Lions as the visitors against the San Francisco 49ers, with the winning team securing a spot in Super Bowl LVIII.

Founded in San Francisco in 1973, Journey’s ties to The Bay Area made them a fitting choice for the halftime performance.

The band’s setlist included “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Be Good to Yourself,” “Any Way You Want It,” and their iconic song, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Interestingly, the lyrics of the latter song underwent a significant change during the performance.

In the traditional second verse of “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the lyrics begin with “Just a city boy / Born and raised in South Detroit.” However, considering the game’s context, with the 49ers competing against the Detroit Lions and leading by 17 points at halftime, the band decided to make a noteworthy alteration. Singer Arnel Pineda replaced the original lyrics with “Just a city boy / Born and raised in San Francisco.”

The audience at Levi’s Stadium, situated in Santa Clara about 45 miles south of San Francisco, enthusiastically cheered the change. Footage of Journey’s performance during the NFL game is available below.

Although Neal Schon and the band may not take full credit, it’s notable that the dynamics of the NFC Championship game changed after their halftime show. The 49ers staged an unexpected comeback in the second half, securing a 34-31 victory. They are now set to face the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl on February 11 in Las Vegas.

Watch their performance here.