Rock Classics: Top 20 Journey Songs That Define The Soundtrack Of Time

Journey is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time. For over four decades, their powerful arena rock sound has captivated generations of fans. Journey song catalog includes numerous hits that have become the soundtrack to many lives. Their melodic rock anthems and passionate ballads continue to resonate with audiences today.

In this article, we count down the top 20 Journey songs of all time. From their signature power ballad Faithfully to the ever-popular Don't Stop Believin', this list highlights the very best of Journey's discography. Relive the magic of these classic rock staples that still shine bright.

Top 20 Journey Songs Of All Time 

Before going into details of each song separately, we have compiled a list of all the top 20 journey hits in the following table. You can jump to any song details by clicking its name from the following table.

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1 - Faithfully (1983)

• Album: Frontiers
• Release Date: February 23, 1983
• Genre: Rock, Soft rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

Faithfully is arguably Journey's most iconic power ballad and one of their signature songs. Released in 1983 from the album Frontiers, this song showcases lead singer Steve Perry soaring vocals and emotional delivery. The lyrics describe the strain of life on the road away from loved ones. Perry sings about staying true even when miles and miles apart. With its monumental chorus and harmonized guitar work between Perry and Neal Schon, Faithfully embodies the epic Journey sound. 

The song starts softly with piano and Perry soulful vocals before building into each impassioned chorus. Schon guitar work complements Perry vocals beautifully. The bridge features a guitar solo that showcases Schon virtuosic skills. Faithfully remains Journey's most enduring ballad, encapsulating themes of loyalty and perseverance. It remains a classic rock radio staple as one of the band's most celebrated songs.

2 - Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (1983)

• Album: Frontiers
• Release Date: February 23, 1983
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

The lead single from Frontiers, Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) is a high-energy rock anthem. It features one of Journey's most recognizable synth riffs along with an unforgettable guitar solo from Neal Schon. The lyrics convey feelings of separation and longing, evident in lines like Someday love will find you, break those chains that bind you. This song was a huge commercial success for Journey, reaching #8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its iconic music video even became an early MTV staple, showcasing the band performing on a ship. 

Separate Ways opens with its famous synth refrain before launching into a driving beat and Schon aggressive guitar riffs. Perry's powerful vocals match the intensity of the instrumentation. The anthemic chorus has become a staple of rock concerts for decades. Schon extended guitar solo is also a highlight, demonstrating his virtuosic skills. This song encapsulates the passion and drama of Journey's signature sound.

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3 - Don't Stop Believin' (1981)

• Album: Escape
• Release Date: July 31, 1981
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

Perhaps Journey's most popular song, Don't Stop Believin' encapsulates their arena rock style. The opening piano riff is instantly recognizable, played by Jonathan Cain who masterfully sets the tone. The uplifting lyrics about perseverance touched a chord with listeners through lines like Don't stop believing, hold onto that feeling. This song hit #9 on the charts upon its release. It gained renewed fame when featured in the finale of The Sopranos. 

Today, Don't Stop Believin'' remains Journey's best-selling digital track. Its message continues to inspire audiences. Steve Perry's commanding yet emotional vocals give power to the hopeful lyrics. Neal Schon melodic guitar work provides texture and sores on the solos. The anthemic chorus is arguably one of the most memorable in rock history. Everything about this song - from the piano intro to the layered instrumentation to the vivid lyrics - makes it an enduring anthem.

4 - Lights (1978)

• Album: Infinity
• Release Date: January 1978
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Neal Schon, Steve Perry

Lights was Journey's debut single with new frontman Steve Perry in 1978. It showcases Perry commanding vocals over Schon melodic guitar work. The song lyrics compare city lights to the sparkle in a lover's eyes, with lines like When the lights go down in the city and the sun shines on the bay, I want to be there in my city. It became one of Journey earliest chart successes, reaching #68 on the Hot 100. 

The verse starts softly with Perry's soulful voice before building into the driving chorus led by Schon guitar. His extended solo in the bridge is a highlight, demonstrating his talents while complementing the emotional lyrics. Lights have a fluid momentum that propels it forward. The blending of Perry vocals with Schon guitar announced Journey revamped sound that would propel their rise to superstardom. Today, this remains a favorite on classic rock radio as one of the band's foundational hits.

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5 - Open Arms (1981)

• Album: Escape
• Release Date: July 31, 1981
• Genre: Rock, soft rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

This sweeping power ballad from Escape hit #2 on the charts in 1982. Open Arms stands among Journey's most beloved songs thanks to its tender lyrics and Perry's emotional vocal delivery. Lines like Living without you, living alone tug at the heartstrings. Neal Schon guitar work beautifully complements Perry vocals, coming in powerfully on the chorus. The song builds gradually, starting with a symphonic opening led by Jonathan Cain on piano. 

As Perry's voice crescendos on the chorus, Schon guitar gives power and depth. The instrumental bridge features an emotive guitar solo from Schon that takes the song to its peak. Open Arms became Journey's second-best chart performer and remains a poignant rock ballad that shows the band's knack for impactful songwriting and musicianship.

6 - Wheel in the Sky (1978)

• Album: Infinity
• Release Date: January 1978
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Neal Schon, Robert Fleischman, Diane Valory

The lead single from Journey fourth album Infinity, Wheel in the Sky showcased the band's new sound. It blended Schon melodic guitar with Fleischman and Perry soulful vocals. The metaphysical lyrics muse on destiny and mortality, evident in the chorus Oh, the wheel in the sky keeps on turnin'. This song peaked at #57 on the charts, though it remains popular on classic rock radio today. It begins with Schon driving the riff before the first verse sung by Robert Fleischman.

When Steve Perry takes over lead vocals on the second verse, his soaring voice gives the song a new power. The guitar and vocal harmony in the chorus achieves the perfect melodic blend. Schon guitar solo in the bridge shows his technical skills and emotional expressiveness. Wheel in the Sky marked Journey's first step into mainstream success and remains a staple today.

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7 - Any Way You Want It (1980)

• Album: Departure
• Release Date: February 1980
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Neal Schon, Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain

With its driving beat and catchy hook, Any Way You Want It became a Journey classic. It was the lead single from their album Departure. This high-energy rocker showcases Perry's powerful vocals. The lyrics convey a passionate love ready to burn bright, proclaiming Any way you want it, that's the way you need it, anyway you want it. 

Any Way You Want It peaked at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Journey's highest charting single then. It opens with a ringing guitar riff from Schon before kicking into an uptempo rhythm. Perry's voice has a raspy edge that gives the song an aggressive, sexual energy. Schon guitar work matches this intensity, especially on his blistering solo. The anthemic chorus made this song a staple of sports stadiums and radios everywhere, encapsulating Journey mass appeal.

8 - Who's Crying Now (1981)

• Album: Escape
• Release Date: July 31, 1981
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

The third single released from Escape, Who's Crying Now is a rock ballad accentuated by synth orchestration. Perry sings about finally overcoming a failed relationship, evident in lyrics like Who's crying now? We're crying now. Neil Schon guitar work perfectly complements the emotional lyrics, coming to the forefront on the soaring choruses. The song starts slowly with cascading synths before Perry's voice enters soulfully. 

The chorus turns more bombastic with driving drums and guitar. Schon's extended solo in the bridge showcases his speed and precision on guitar. Who's Crying Now became another top 10 hit for Journey, reaching #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981. It remains a favorite ballad among Journey fans today, demonstrating the band's balance of hard rock and tenderness.

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9 - Only the Young (1984)

• Album: Vision Quest Soundtrack
• Release Date: January 9, 1985
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

Written for the 1985 film Vision Quest, Only the Young captures Journey's inspirational rock spirit. With driving drums, melodic guitars and synthesizers, this song has a cinematic feel fitting the movie story. Lyrically, it encourages idealistic youth not to abandon their dreams, proclaiming Don't stop, your faith is all that strong. Though not released as a single, Only the Young appeared on Journey Greatest Hits album. 

It remains a lesser-known gem beloved by fans. Steve Perry uplifting vocals give power to the hopeful lyrics. Neal Schon guitar work shines with both force and restraint, accentuating the song's driving momentum. The anthemic chorus is a showcase for Perry's vocal range and strength. Though sometimes overlooked, Only the Young encapsulates Journey's unique blend of rock energy and pop optimism.

10 - Escape (1981)

• Album: Escape
• Release Date: July 31, 1981
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Ross Valory

The title track of Journey mega-hit Escape album encapsulates their signature sound. Propulsive rhythms, driving guitars and Perry powerhouse vocals make this song an arena rock anthem. Lyrics like Get up and make it happen capture the restless yearning for adventure. Along with tracks like Don't Stop Believin', Escape exemplified Journey's evolution into global superstars. It became a live show staple, always electrifying crowds. 

The opening guitars and synths have an immediately propulsive feel. Once the full band kicks in, Escape turns into a high-energy rocker perfect for fist-pumping crowds. Perry's rough vocals convey passion and ambition fitting the lyrics. Schon blistering guitar work provides the fuel to take this song into the stratosphere. From lyrics to performance, Escape encapsulates Journey arena rock excellence.

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11 - Send Her My Love (1983)

• Album: Frontiers
• Release Date: February 23, 1983
• Genre: Rock, Soft rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain

From Journey 1983 album Frontiers, Send Her My Love is a poignant piano-driven ballad. Unlike their other hits, this song has a stripped-down sound focused on tender lyrics and Perry emotional vocals. He sings about trying to let go of a past flame gracefully, captured in lines like Just send her my love. Send Her My Love showcased Journey versatility and Cain skill crafting heartfelt ballads. 

The piano opening sets the mood before Perry's voice enters gently. His vocal restraint matches the vulnerability of the lyrics. As the song builds, ratcheting strings and drums add drama. But the core remains Perry intimate performance and Cain graceful piano until Schon guitar closes it with sensitivity. This song exemplified how Journey created rock anthems with both power and nuance.

12 - Feeling That Way (1978)

• Album: Infinity
• Release Date: January 1978
• Genre: Progressive Rock, Jazz Fusion
• Songwriter: Aynsley Dunbar, Gregg Rolie, Neal Schon

From Journey 1978 album Infinity, Feeling That Way blended progressive rock with jazz influences. The first half highlights Gregg Rolie's soulful vocals before Steve Perry takes over. Lyrically, it explores the anticipatory excitement of new love, exclaiming Feeling that way, I never felt before! The complex rhythms and instrumentation showcased Journey musical artistry. 

This experimental track demonstrated how Journey integrated sophistication into their rock sound. Alternating tempos and tones keep the listener hooked. The syncopated opening spotlights Rolie jazz-infused organ solo before kicking into an uptempo rock beat once Perry begins singing. The blend of Rolie's smoother voice and Perry arena-ready power showed Journey versatility as vocalists and musicians.

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13 - Be Good to Yourself (1986)

• Album: Raised on Radio
• Release Date: May 27, 1986
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

The lead single from Raised on Radio, Be Good to Yourself marked Journey's pop-rock direction in the 1980s. It incorporated synthesizers and a prominent bass groove. The lyrics encourage leaving bad relationships behind, captured in the chorus You better be good to yourself. Though not as commercially successful as past hits, this song still reached #9 on the Mainstream Rock chart.&

Be Good to Yourself showed Journey ability to evolve their sound with the times. The electronic keyboards and pulsing bassline give this a distinctly 80s pop flavor. Yet Perry's commanding vocals maintain the band's melodic power. His delivery pairs well with the lyrics about starting over. While not as guitar-heavy as their early work, this song proved Journey could update their sound while keeping their passionate rock spirit.

14 - Departure (1980)

• Album: Departure
• Release Date: March 1980
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Gregg Rolie, Neal Schon

The hard-driving title track of Journey 1980 album Departure exemplified their guitar-heavy arena rock style. Schon prominent electric guitar riffs propel this song forward. Meanwhile, the sci-fi inspired lyrics imagine leaving earth behind for another world, crying Departure, leave without a trace. While not a proper single, Departure became a concert favorite that allowed Journey to showcase their instrumental talents. It remains a hidden gem for avid Journey fans. 

The song opens with ringing guitars before launching into an uptempo, galloping rhythm. The bass and drums chug along as a platform for Schon blistering extended guitar solos. Gregg Rolie raw lead vocals match the intensity of the music. Departure captures Journey prog-rock roots while previewing the arena rock anthems that would soon dominate their catalog.

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15 - I'll Be Alright Without You (1978)

• Album: Infinity
• Release Date: January 1978
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Gregg Rolie

From Journey Infinity album, I'll Be Alright Without You blended soul, pop and rock influences. Gregg Rolie passionate lead vocals shine along with an organ solo. The spurned love lyrics have an R&B flavor reminiscent of Rolie time with Santana, evident in lines like I'll be alright without you, I'll make it on my own. While overshadowed by later hits, this song demonstrated Rolie songwriting talents during his last album with Journey. 

It showed the band diversity during their transition into mainstream rock. The organ-driven rhythm gives this song a retro feel while Rolie's silky voice adds soul. His organ solo in the bridge reminds of his jazz roots. Then the song ends with an extended jam spotlighting the talents of the whole band. I'll Be Alright Without You exemplified Journey blend of musical genres coming together.

16 - Raised on Radio (1986)

• Album: Raised on Radio
• Release Date: May 27, 1986
• Genre: Rock, Soft Rock
• Songwriter: Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain

The synth-driven title track of Journey 1986 album encapsulated their pop evolution. With electronic drums and prominent keyboards, this song had an 80s pop-rock sheen. Yet Perry's soaring vocals maintained Journey melodic power. Lyrically, it celebrates the unifying influence of music, proclaiming We were raised on radio. Raised on Radio reached #4 on the Mainstream Rock chart despite limited commercial success. 

It showed Journey resilience during their transitioning era. The use of synthesizers and keyboards gave Journey a more contemporary sound. But Perry's voice still shines through with passion, especially when pushed on the choruses. His soulful crooning paired well with the lyrics about the nostalgia of music. Even as pop dominated the 80s, Raised on Radio proved Journey could still craft anthemic melodies.

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17 - When You Love a Woman (1996)

• Album: Trial by Fire
• Release Date: October 22, 1996
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry

After a decade-long hiatus, Journey released this heartfelt power ballad in 1996. It showcases Perry's emotive vocals and earnest lyrics about unconditional love, evident in lines like When you love a woman, you tell her that she really wanted. Smooth guitar work and strings provide backdrop. When You Love a Woman became Journey comeback hit, reaching #12 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

Though Perry soon left the band again, this song remains a popular choice for first dances at weddings. The Spanish-style classical guitar beautifully complements Perry nuanced vocals. He sings with restraint, matching the tenderness of the lyrics. The swell of strings and electric guitar on the chorus accentuates the emotion. When You Love a Woman proved Journey could still craft a poignant ballad after so many years.

18 - Look into the Future (1978)

• Album: Infinity
• Release Date: January 1978
• Genre: Progressive Rock, Jazz Fusion
• Songwriter: Gregg Rolie

The jazz fusion opener of Journey Infinity album demonstrated the band's musical experimentation. Rolie lead vocals have a soulful fluidity complemented by sophisticated instrumentation. Lyrics optimistically look ahead to brighter times, proclaimed in the chorus Just look into the future. While not very commercial, Look into the Future showed Journey integrating their prog rock roots into radio-friendly rock. It exemplified their artistic beginnings with Rolie before mega-stardom. 

This song has a meandering, improvisational feel that shows off Journey jazz-rock skills. Rolie keyboards and Schon guitar both get extended solos revealing their technical abilities. The unconventional structure and chord changes keep the listener engaged. As the first track of a new era, Look into the Future set the stage for Journey progressive yet accessible direction.

19 - Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' (1979)

• Album: Evolution
• Release Date: April 1979
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain

With its catchy beat and suggestive lyrics, Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' became one of Journey's first big hits. It reached #16 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. Perry's passionate vocals and Schon insistent guitar riffs make this a quintessential arena rocker. Journey paired driving rhythms with the intimacy in the lyrics, singing I need you so much and You're so good. Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' exemplified how Journey found mainstream success without compromising their rock edge. 

It starts with the keyboard/guitar riff everyone knows before Perry sultry voice kicks off the first verse. Schon guitar punctuates each chorus aggressively. The bridge features an extended guitar solo where Schon can showcase his speed and precision. Overall this song captured both sensuality and exhilaration, keeping Journey music artful as well as accessible.

20 - Stone in Love (1981)

• Album: Escape
• Release Date: July 31, 1981
• Genre: Rock
• Songwriter: Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, Neal Schon

From Journey multi-platinum Escape album, Stone in Love is a high-energy rocker punctuated by Schon blistering guitar solos. The lyrics celebrate being consumed by passion, exclaiming My heart needs your stone in love. Along with Don't Stop Believin', this song helped make Escape such a massive success. Stone in Love became a live favorite due to its sheer exhilaration. Though sometimes overshadowed by slower anthems, it remains a quintessential Journey rocker. 

It kicks off with ringing guitars building anticipation before launching into an uptempo, galloping rhythm. Perry's rough vocals convey the lyrics' passion and intensity. Schon extended guitar solo rips through the song with speed and precision, showing why he is considered one of rock's greatest guitarists. The driving momentum never lets up from start to finish, making Stone in Love a highlight of any Journey concert.

Final Verdict: Journey Songs that Span Generations (H2)

Journey discography reads like a greatest hits collection of melodic rock. Their unique blend of powerful vocals, driving rhythms and virtuosic guitars created an iconic sound that fills arenas. Journey songs exemplify passion and perseverance, striking a chord with listeners across decades. Their ballads tug heartstrings while rockers electrify. Old fans and new continue finding meaning in Journey music. Though generations change, Journey songs remain anthems for the ages.

FAQs (H2)

All Q: are H3

Q: What is Journey's signature song?

Many consider Don't Stop Believin' to be Journey's signature song. Released in 1981, it remains their best-selling and most culturally ubiquitous hit.

Q: What is the best-selling Journey song?

Don't Stop Believin' is Journey's best-selling song, moving over 9 million digital copies. It surpassed Faithfully which previously held the best-selling title.

Q: What year was Don't Stop Believin' released?

Don't Stop Believin' was released in 1981 on the album Escape. It reached #9 on the Billboard charts that year.

Q: What is the longest Journey song?

At 9 minutes and 24 seconds long, Majestic is Journey's longest song. It appeared on their 2005 album Generations.

Q: Is Steve Perry still the lead singer of Journey?

No, Steve Perry left Journey for good in 1998 and was replaced by Steve Augeri. The current lead singer is Arnel Pineda who joined in 2007.

Q: How many albums has Journey released?

Since 1975, Journey has released 15 studio albums. Their latest is Eclipse from 2011 with lead singer Arnel Pineda.

Q: What is Journey famous for?

Journey is most famous for their melodic arena rock sound highlighted by Steve Perry soaring tenor vocals.

Q: What was Foreigner's biggest hit?

Foreigner's biggest hit was the power ballad I Want to Know What Love Is released in 1984. It reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the band's most successful single.