Neal Schon: Steve Perry Didn’t Deserve Journey’s Money
photo credit: (L) pbs.org/independentlens/videos/journey-s-neal-schon-on-finding-a-frontman-on-youtube, (R) YouTube via UCUD_C5soDamn3goYKbWmciA
Journey, well known for singles like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” has had internal strife, especially with former lead vocalist Steve Perry. Perry had a tense relationship with band members, especially lead guitarist and co-founder Neal Schon, which continued into the band’s latter years after Perry left. After a while, Schon began to doubt Perry’s claim to band revenues due to this friction.
Schon’s Response to Perry’s Reflections
In a 2008 Q&A with GQ Magazine, Perry shared his feelings about his time with the band, expressing a constant struggle to prove himself despite the band’s success. Schon, responding to Perry’s comments, clarified that no legal constraints were preventing him from discussing Perry. He voiced frustration over Perry’s perception that the band spoke negatively about him. Schon emphasized that he refrained from making inflammatory remarks but acknowledged certain financial aspects that were off-limits for discussion.
Neal’s Take on Sharing Journey’s History
Schon explained his perspective on sharing the band’s history and why it was essential. He expressed his frustration with Perry’s reluctance to discuss the band publicly and clarified that when asked about the band’s history, he felt compelled to share the truth. Schon emphasized the need to set the record straight and asserted his right to share authentic stories about the band’s journey.
Trademark Dispute Drama
The conflict reached a boiling point in 2022 when Perry took legal action against Schon over trademarks for 20 Journey songs. Schon, in response, detailed the history of Journey’s music and merchandise trademarks, highlighting his efforts to protect the band’s work. He accused Perry and others of attempting a takeover and criticized the perceived corruption in the music industry.
The dispute revolved around fundamental differences in perspectives regarding respect, contributions, and rights within the band. Perry later withdrew his lawsuit related to Journey’s trademarks. In a tweet, Schon hinted at accusations from Jonathan Cain, suggesting an unfair attempt to profit from Perry’s work. Schon dismissed Cain’s claims as baseless.
