Explosive Reaction: How ‘Don’t Stop Believin” on The Sopranos Ignited My Phone – A Journey Through Culture
Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon Reflect on the Enduring Legacy of "Don’t Stop Believin’"
Jonathan Cain recalls moving from Chicago to Hollywood in the ’70s, struggling financially and nearly giving up on his rock’n’roll dreams. His father’s unexpected advice, "Don’t stop believing," became the song’s cornerstone. Cain later joined Journey, and during the making of their "Escape" album, he teamed up with Steve Perry to turn his father’s words into a melody. Both Cain and Perry, who hailed from the nightclub scene, infused their experiences into the lyrics, capturing the essence of chasing dreams against the backdrop of Sunset Boulevard.
Cain’s piano chords are reminiscent of "Let It Be," something he discovered later, embracing the notion of learning from the best. Although "Don’t Stop Believin’" initially peaked at No. 9 on the charts in 1981, its impact was enduring. The song, recorded in the windowless Fantasy Studios, became a symbol of hope and possibility, resonating with countless small-town girls and city boys dreaming of a better life.
Neal Schon recounts creating the iconic guitar part that evokes a "midnight train" imagery, recognizing the odd arrangement that delays the chorus until the song’s end. Despite initial radio play limitations, the song’s rehearsal and chemistry among bandmates paved its path to success. Schon reminisces about the camaraderie in the studio, a dynamic he misses in today’s fragmented music production landscape.
The song’s resurrection in the new millennium can be attributed to its inclusion in cultural moments like the movie "Monster," the finale of "The Sopranos," and being featured in "Glee," which introduced a younger audience to Journey’s music. The band’s recent tours show they’ve maintained their magic, with "Don’t Stop Believin’" continuing to electrify audiences worldwide. Their upcoming 50th Anniversary Freedom tour promises to keep the legacy alive, as Journey’s anthem encourages everyone to hold onto hope and dreams.
Original Story https://www.theguardian.com/culture/article/2024/aug/05/journey-dont-stop-believin-sopranos-midnight-train
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