Steve Perry Reveals How He Wrote ‘Don’t Stop Believin’

Steve Perry, the iconic voice behind Journey, opened up about his songwriting journey, particularly the creation of the legendary anthem, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” During a lively chat on Jonesy’s Jukebox, Perry shared some behind-the-scenes moments from that magical time.

A Song That Sparked From a Warehouse

Perry recalled that the song was born in an Oakland warehouse, where he and his bandmates were experimenting with sounds. He had a brilliant idea while talking to John Kane, suggesting they incorporate piano chords, which would set the stage for something special. “I’ve always loved songs that start that way,” he said. With some melodies starting to form, the magic began to unfold.

The inspiration for the memorable “streetlights” section of the song came from a vivid memory Perry had of Detroit. After a show, he found himself on the top floor of a hotel, gazing down at the twinkling lights of the city below. “It was fascinating to see the glow of the streets,” he said, explaining how that moment influenced his lyrics about “streetlight people.”

The Track’s Unexpected Success

What’s astonishing is that at the time, Perry and the band didn’t know how beloved the song would become. “It wasn’t like we had a clue it would stick around,” he admitted. It was a song born out of raw emotion and heartfelt experiences, just like many others they created during that era. The band poured their hearts into every track, and it was the listeners who truly embraced “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

Interestingly, the song received a significant boost in popularity after it was featured in the film Monster, directed by Patty Jenkins. Perry expressed gratitude for how Jenkins integrated the song into a pivotal scene, introducing it to a new generation of fans.

Steve Perry’s journey through music hasn’t been without its challenges. He touched on personal struggles and how music was a way to navigate those tough times. Despite everything, he remains grounded and passionate about his craft.

For those of us who grew up with “Don’t Stop Believin’,” hearing Perry share the story behind it is a reminder of the powerful connection music can create.